One way to give a functional nod to nautical is with a rope stair railing and rope bannister.
This staircase by Jonathan Adler not only has a rope railing, but also a graduating blue for the front of the steps to enhance the nautical appeal.
Nautical staircase with rope railing in a Florida cottage featured on Southern Living. They removed the stairwell spindles and replaced them with Hearty Manila Rope.
This Staircase leads to a home gym over a garage. Window hardware from Restoration Hardware was used to install this rope stair railing.
I think thick rope is the way to go, white or natural, depending on the look and feel you want. Via Laurie's Projects.
Not a fan of the loose rope railing? Try this idea by C Design. A creative rope bannister design idea that includes Nautical Boat Cleats.
Rope railing and a Nautical Gallery Wall make for a perfect pairing. Source no longer available.
A rope railing is the perfect seafaring touch for any home. Seen in a cottage style guest house featured at New England Home.
A custom built curved staircase with a rope railing detail. Seen in a New Jersey Shore Cottage.
