A traditional Navy song that has been sung since the 19th Century. Popular Master and Commander version
The song was written by Richard Creagh Saunders (1809–1886), who enlisted in the navy as a Schoolmaster in 1839
The version sung in the wardroom scene in the film Master and Commander was arranged in 1978 by Jim Mcgeean from his album Of Ships… and Men.
Safe and sound at home again, let the waters roar, Jack
Safe and sound at home again, let the waters roar, Jack
Long we’ve tossed on the rolling main, now we’re safe ashore Jack
Don’t forget your old shipmates, falee, ralee ralee ralee rye-eye-doe
Since we sailed from Plymouth Sound, four years gone or nigh, Jack
Was there ever chummies, now, such as you and I, Jack?
Chorus
We have worked the self-same gun, quarter deck division
Sponger I and loader you, through the whole commission
Chorus
When the middle watch was on, and the time went slow, boy
Who would choose a rousing stave, who like Jack or Joe, boy?
Chorus
There she swings, an empty hulk, not a soul below, Jack
Number seven starboard mess, misses Jack and Jow now
Chorus
But the best of friends must part, fair or foul the weather
Hand your flipper for a shake, now a drink together
Chorus x2