I Saw Three Ships

by Traditional Carol
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How to Play This Song

Learn a simple version, phrase by phrase: the melody, then easy chords.

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Other arrangements of I Saw Three Ships

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Sheet MusicBar NotationSimple SheetLead SheetKaraoke · LyricsEasy NotesFalling Notes
Lyrics

I (G)saw three (D7)ships come (G)sail ing (D7)in, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day; I (G)saw three (D7)ships come (G)sail ing (D7)in, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, in the (D7)morn (G)ing.

And what was (D7)in those (G)ships all (D7)three On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day?

And (G)what was (D7)in those (G)ships all (D7)three, On (G)Christ mas (A7)Day, in the (D7)morn (G)ing?

The Vir gin (D7)Mar y and (G)Christ were (D7)there, On (G)Christ mas Day, on (D7)Christ mas Day; The (G)Vir gin (D7)Mar y and (G)Christ were (D7)there, On (G)Christ mas (Em)Day in the (D7)morn (G)ing.

I Saw Three Ships — Simple Sheet Music

1 person has learned this song

"I Saw Three Ships" in simplified sheet music format — the bridge between beginner modes and real sheet music. Color-coded notes with lyrics scrolling horizontally. Perfect for learning to read music. Key of G, 158 BPM.

Tip: Start at 50% speed to get comfortable with the fingering, then work your way up to full tempo.

Try other practice modes:

Falling NotesBeginnerLead SheetBar SheetKaraoke

About “I Saw Three Ships”

How does Simplified Piano Arrangement differ from full sheet music for "I Saw Three Ships"?
Simplified Arrangement keeps the melody and chords on a simplified staff with lyrics, color-coded for easy recognition. It's a learner-bridge between Beginner mode and the classic engraved Sheet Music — same song, less visual density.
What key is "I Saw Three Ships" by Traditional Carol played in?
I Saw Three Ships is arranged in the key of G on Super Simple Piano. You can transpose to any other key live in the player.
What's the tempo (BPM) of "I Saw Three Ships"?
The arrangement plays at 158 BPM. Use the speed control (10-200%) to practice slower or play faster.
Is "I Saw Three Ships" easy to play on piano?
Yes — this is one of our beginner-friendly arrangements with simplified chords and color-coded notes.
Can I download sheet music for "I Saw Three Ships"?
Yes — registered users can download PDF sheet music, plus MIDI and MusicXML files for use in other notation software.
Who composed "I Saw Three Ships"?
"I Saw Three Ships" was originally performed by Traditional Carol. The Super Simple Piano arrangement is simplified for beginner-to-intermediate players.
What other songs by Traditional Carol can I play here?
Try "A Jolly Merry Christmas", "A Jolly Merry Christmas", "Angels We Have Heard On High". All are in our player with color-coded notes; pick the one matching your level.
Is Simple Sheet good for learning to read sheet music?
Yes! Simple Sheet bridges the gap between beginner color-coded modes and traditional notation. Notes are displayed on a simplified staff with colors, lyrics, and chords — helping you build music reading skills gradually while still enjoying "I Saw Three Ships". Key of G, 158 BPM.
What's the difference between Simple Sheet and Lead Sheet?
Simple Sheet shows a more streamlined, horizontally scrolling view with color-coded notes on a staff and lyrics below — like a simplified version of real sheet music. Lead Sheet shows melody with chord symbols above and full lyrics. Simple Sheet is the next step toward reading traditional notation.