A large cask with a lidded opening, used to hold a day's supply of drinking water for a ship's crewmen, is known as a water butt. These water butts were crucial equipment on ships during long voyages, as access to clean drinking water was essential for the health and well-being of the crew.

Water butts were typically made of wood or metal and were securely fastened to the deck of the ship to prevent them from rolling around during rough seas. The lids of the water butts were designed to keep out debris and contaminants, ensuring that the water inside remained safe to drink.

Onboard a ship, the responsibility of filling and maintaining the water butt often fell to the ship's cook or designated crew member. They would ensure that the water butt was filled with fresh water from the ship's supply before setting sail, and would monitor the water level throughout the journey to ensure that the crew had an an adequate supply of drinking water.

Water butts played a crucial role in the daily life of sailors, providing them with a source of hydration and helping to prevent dehydration during long periods at sea. Without access to clean drinking water, sailors were at risk of developing serious health issues such as dehydration and heat stroke.

Today, water butts are still used on some traditional sailing vessels, although modern ships are equipped with more advanced water storage and filtration systems. However, the history and importance of water butts in maritime culture can still be seen and appreciated on historical ships and during maritime festivals.

For more information on water butts and their role in maritime history, you can visit websites such as Maritime Heritage or National Historic Ships.

Overall, water butts were an essential part of life onboard a ship, providing sailors with a vital resource that was necessary for their survival and well-being during long voyages at sea.

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