Leg 184: Crossing the Equator

It is a tradition of the sea which goes back centuries that the first time crew members cross the equator (pollywogs), they are initiated into "The Most Royal and Sacred Order of the Deep" by the seasoned shipmates who have already endured the rites of passage on other cruises (Shellbacks).

The proceedings are overseen by the royal court of which King Neptune, Queen Amphitrite, and the Royal Baby are prominent. Other members of the Royal Court are usually Davy Jones, the Royal Scribe, and The Royal Barber. The new Shellbacks are given certificates which document that they have now "found favor in the eyes of King Neptune" and are forever (as long as they don't lose the certificates) free from having to be subjected to this ritual again (except as perpetrators).


(size 160 kb)

(size 160 kb)

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