Direct answer: Sailor’s tar is best understood as a maritime phrase for the tar used by sailors and ship workers, especially on ropes, rigging, and wooden ship materials.
The word tar became so closely associated with seamen that “Jack Tar” became a familiar nickname for a sailor. The material itself was part of daily shipboard maintenance. Natural fibre rope, wood, canvas, and seams all needed protection in wet and salty conditions.
Sailor’s tar can refer to the pine tar used on rigging or to the broader tarry world of wooden vessels: pitch pots, rope dressing, caulking seams, and protective coatings. It is not usually a modern product name with a single standard formula.
This phrase is cultural and occupational rather than technical. If an old source mentions sailor’s tar, it probably means practical maritime tar, not a distinct species of tar separate from pine tar or naval tar.
In short: A maritime phrase rather than a formal material class. Closely linked with rope, rigging, and wooden ships. Connected to the nickname Jack Tar. Usually overlaps with pine tar and naval tar.