At least the ballads should have a chorus or refrain (which will make them even longer!). I do agree that a long ballad without a chorus or refrain is inappropriate for the German Club shanty sessions.

Those of us who gather at the YTB (usually after midnight) do indulge in singing some of the quieter sea songs. There was quite a turnout at the YTB this year, with the sessions continuing to 4 in the morning.

Cheerily,
Charley Noble