Sailing southwards from Rathlin Island
Past Fair Head and by Murlough Bay
With a north wind to drive us homeward
What care we for the wind or spray

We've been fishing since morning early
When the sun first shone on the sea
We've a fine catch of lythe and glashan
Six wee codlings for Friday's tea

Sailing southwards from Rathlin Island
Past Fair Head and by Murlough Bay
With a north wind to drive us homeward
What care we for the wind or spray

It's a life for a man of freedom
With a good boat and trusty crew
And the sea is his realm and kingdom
With the wild seals and gannets too

Sailing southwards from Rathlin Island
Past Fair Head and by Murlough Bay
With a north wind to drive us homeward
What care we for the wind or spray

We'll be home by the evening, surely
Down the coast and the ebbing tide
We'll be greeted by Henry Andy
For a pint or two down in McBrides