Weather: that usually sublime, often fickle and occasionally monstrous companion of every mariner, will be the central theme of discussion at the 41st annual Albert Reed & Thelma Walker Maritime History Symposium at Maine Maritime Museum on Saturday, May 3.

The symposium, “These Contrary Winds: Weather and its Effects on Ships, Mariners, and Maritime History,” will be held from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the museum’s Long Reach Hall. Come rain or come shine.

For more than 25 centuries, humans have relinquished the security of terra firma and set sail on the vast oceans of the world. On each and every journey, whether for exploration, trade, fishing, war-waging or just for pleasure, one companion has made every voyage — weather. Even in today’s technological world of satellite weather imagery and advanced forecasting, weather continues to be a factor in every maritime activity, whether good or bad.

Scheduled speakers, which includes academicians, writers, historians and professional mariners, will present on weather and climate topics at both the micro and macro levels, discussing specific instances when weather was the overriding element of a maritime event or about long range climate trends that changed the course of maritime, and therefore human, history.

In addition to the day’s lectures, registration fees ($70 nonmembers, $60 members, $35 students) include a continental breakfast, lunch, coffee and a concluding reception. Registration is available online at www.mainemaritimemuseum.org.

An exhibit of the same name is currently on view at the museum and all attendees will have an opportunity to view the exhibit, which features paintings, photography and artifacts highlighting the prominent place weather occupies in a mariner’s eyes.