Crossing the Lines

 

February 12, 2025

IDL Certificate

We crossed the International Date Line last night on February 12th and this morning is February 14, 2025.  We didn't change the time, just the date.  There is no ceremony per se, but we did get a certificate stating the fact that we did indeed cross the IDL

My cough is better, but not gone.  The good news is that I am sleeping better and feeling more rested and I'm not having to use my inhaler near as much.  Thanks for all the get well wishes!

Today being Valentine's Day, the ship had an enormous bouquet of Red Roses in the atrium of the Queen's Room.  The dining rooms were also all decked out with hanging hearts and cupids etc. 

It is also a Gala Evening which requires tuxedos or at least a dark suit and tie and gowns for the ladies.  The menu doesn't impress us enough to go to the trouble to dress up, so we opt for the buffet which often has much of the same menu.  

Saturday, February 15

Initiation Day!  We crossed the equator last night at 2AM but the actual ceremony takes place in the Pavilion Pool area at 2PM this afternoon.  As you remember, ship's company that hasn't crossed the equator and gone through an initiation are known as Pollywogs.  Those that have been initiated carry the title of Shellbacks.  They gave an opportunity to sign up to be initiated on a first come first serve basis.  They indicated the applicant must be fit and able to climb stairs and perform some rigorous activity.  Sue opted not to participate.  I, of course, am a Shellback from my Navy initiation back in the 60's.  We arrive at the Pavilion shortly after 1PM and there is already standing room only!  I found out later that they had initiated 160 guests and crew which was a record for them. 

The captain's table with the Judge at the podium


The ceremony consisted of the judge reading the charges against the pollywogs and than the arrival of King Neptune with his entourage, including his bearded wife!  The Shellbacks all voted "guilty" to all the charges read.  I hope to post links to videos that I took.  The Pollywogs had to parade by one of the Shellbacks who held a fish which they had to kiss.  In my day, we had to kiss the Royal Baby's belly and that was not very pleasant as his belly was all greased up with something awful.
Pollywogs grouped at the head of the pool.


  After that they sat at the head of the pool and Shellbacks poured some made up items like jello, custard and egg noodles over their heads before being allowed to enter the pool and clean off.  Pretty mild all in all.  It was a fun time and I am assuming they got an actual Shellback certificate for their efforts.  We left before all 160 were done as it was a little tedious and the music was way too loud as usual.

Initiation links:

https://photos.google.com/search/CgZWaWRlb3MiCBIGCgQqAggBKMrIgI3RMg%3D%3D/photo/AF1QipMv_6S-gGGemrxxw9r0Q5nJ7d38IuDtABrN9AnN

https://photos.google.com/search/CgZWaWRlb3MiCBIGCgQqAggBKMrIgI3RMg%3D%3D/photo/AF1QipN1T_aaNikIRfdLbsDvTeZTeu5ZLJGLIQwoZ0Uk

https://photos.google.com/search/CgZWaWRlb3MiCBIGCgQqAggBKMrIgI3RMg%3D%3D/photo/AF1QipMflW4gf0Q0zRxTtnTbggfwWeGPJiuVXxxIwvdM

You will probably have to copy and paste the links to view and hear.


Equator Crossing Certificate


Next stop: Apia, Samoa




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