This is one of the first folk songs I heard in a pub - I certainly heard it in Barnsley in the late 60s - upstairs at the King George.

The line is From Yarmouth down to Scarborough in my book, because that is what was sung when I heard it back then.

I sing 'Went out to fight that bitter night and battle with the swell.' thats in the book too.

Having done a bit of sailing in coastal waters, and also on the Norfolk Broads, I can tell you that with the wind, tide or current with you there is definitely the impression of going downhill. With the wind abaft the beam on a calm sea the bow is actually pressed down, and running goose winged into an opposing sea can be a touch interesting for the steersman.

(the prayer 'Oh God don't let her gybe. Oh God please let her bows lift on the next wave. Oh God send my relief early' is appropriate for these occasions. The last line is often omitted in anything over a Force Five but can be replaced by several 'Oh Christ!!!'s depending on the time between waves. There might be no Atheists in trenches but most of those who venture out in small ships know Psalm 107 23 even if they have never read it.)

With the elements against you it is an uphill struggle to make any progress.