Three of Wands Tarot Card Meaning: Upright, Reversed & Love

Three of Wands: Your Ships Are Coming In

A figure stands on a cliff overlooking the sea, three wands planted firmly in the ground, watching ships sail toward the horizon carrying the fruits of their foresight. The Three of Wands is the card of expansion realized -- you planted the seeds, made the brave decisions, and now the results are beginning to arrive. The world is opening up, and your vision is becoming reality.

Quick Reference

Upright Meaning

The Three of Wands represents the exciting phase where your plans begin to bear fruit. Unlike the Two of Wands, where you were still deciding, the Three shows that you have already taken action and are now watching your efforts gain momentum. The ships on the horizon symbolize returns on your investment -- whether that investment was time, money, energy, or courage.

This card carries strong themes of expansion and exploration. It often appears when opportunities are arriving from unexpected directions, particularly from overseas or outside your usual sphere. Travel, international business, and cross-cultural connections are all highlighted. The Three of Wands tells you that thinking big was the right move, and the universe is responding in kind.

There is also a message of patience embedded in this card. The ships are coming, but they have not arrived yet. Trust the process. You have done the hard work of envisioning and initiating -- now allow time and momentum to do their part. Stand tall on your cliff and watch your future unfold.

Reversed Meaning

When reversed, the Three of Wands signals frustrating delays. Your plans are still valid, but something is slowing them down -- logistics, timing, other people, or circumstances beyond your control. The ships are still out there, but they are taking longer than expected. This is a test of patience, not a sign of failure.

The reversal can also point to a lack of foresight. Perhaps you launched too quickly without considering all the variables, or you failed to plan for obstacles that now seem obvious. Use this delay as an opportunity to refine your strategy. Revisit your plans, fill in the gaps, and prepare for the next wave of momentum.

In Love & Relationships

If you are single: The Three of Wands often signals a connection forming with someone from a different city, country, or cultural background. Love may arrive from an unexpected direction. Stay open to long-distance possibilities and be willing to expand your usual dating radius.

If you are in a relationship: Your partnership is entering an expansive phase. You might be planning travel together, exploring shared ambitions, or supporting each other in stepping outside your comfort zones. This card celebrates growth that happens when two people dream big together.

In Career & Finances

The Three of Wands is excellent news for career and business. Your professional efforts are gaining traction, and new opportunities are emerging -- particularly those involving expansion, partnerships, or reaching new audiences. If you have been considering a new market, collaboration, or career pivot, this card confirms that the momentum is in your favor.

Financially, expect positive developments related to investments or ventures you initiated earlier. Returns may come from unexpected sources. This is also a good time to think about diversifying your income streams or exploring international financial opportunities.

As Advice

Keep your eyes on the horizon. The Three of Wands asks you to maintain your vision even when results are not yet fully visible. You have already done the brave thing by putting your plans into motion. Now trust that your foresight was sound. Stay patient, stay alert for arriving opportunities, and be ready to act when the ships reach shore.

Card Combinations

• Three of Wands + Ace of Pentacles: A new financial opportunity is arriving from your earlier groundwork. This combination suggests tangible, material rewards for your vision and planning.
• Three of Wands + Six of Swords: A significant transition or relocation is ahead. You may be moving to a new city or country as part of your expansion plans.
• Three of Wands + The Star: Your long-term vision is divinely guided. This powerful combination suggests that hope, healing, and cosmic alignment are supporting your journey forward.

Explore all card meanings in our Complete Tarot Card Meanings Guide, or start from the beginning with our Tarot for Beginners Guide.