Crossing the Equator: The Neptune Ceremony

One of the lively shipboard traditions is the ceremony when the ship crosses the Equator. This seafaring tradition goes back hundreds of years and is perfect for a sea day.

At noon, King Neptune (in our case, Queen Neptuna) followed by the captain and the POLLYWOGS, those who have not crossed the Equator by sea, march around the pool to the ceremonial site. Spectators or SHELLBACKS, those who have crossed the Equator by sea, cheer on the initiation of egg on the head for fertility, sand and sea, then kiss the fish. It’s all good fun.