From Pollywogs to Shellbacks

Crossing the Equator on a boat is a privilege that I am proud to have experienced. "Crossing the Line" is a ritual that has been carried out for centuries and used to be quite a brutal affair where many pollywogs (slime - uninitiated sailors) were killed in the process. However, between us four on the "Temptress", it was an exciting, memorable and relatively tame experience:

00. 00'.00 S - The Equator

Pat and I were all a-buzz the night before the Equator Crossing, not knowing exactly at what time or on whose watch we would reach the Equator. However, as my 2-4am watch came to an end it was clear that the Crossing would take place near the end of Pat's watch. I went to bed and was woken just after 5 by Pat's excited antics that the time was nigh. He made us some coffee while I dug out our special nutty chocolate, reserved for this moment, and got my camera ready. 

The countdown began: at exactly 5:29am we crossed over 00. 00'.00 S into the Northern Hemisphere. The sun was just rising and we were at the helm to experience the moment. Yet, beyond the chart plotter telling us the Crossing had just occurred, there was really no other significance to this particular spot/line in the ocean. Nevertheless, we were the ones to whom this moment was special; an imaginary line had been crossed that, to us, signified a huge milestone and achievement which is deemed an honour amongst sailors. We were no longer pollywogs, according to the centuries old tradition, but had now earned the title of shellbacks. 

We sipped our coffees and nibbled on some delectable chocolate, with giant grins on our faces knowing that a momentous occasion in our lives had just taken place. Patrick's watch came to an end and it was time to wash away our pollywog status by hanging off the end of the sugar scoops (end part of the catamaran hulls) and be dragged along in the waters of the Northern Hemisphere ~ so refreshing and fun! But, getting back on board while cruising at 7-8 knots can get a little tricky... 

Entering as a Pollywog; Emerging as a Shellback

Each of us paid tribute to King Neptune by pouring beer/wine into his thirsty ocean. Pat and I were a tad more generous and cast the King a whole beer each; after which a morning of beers, cocktails (with Pat's Brazilian rum and juice mix) and jolliness ensued! 

Paying tribute 

 Equator Day Celebrations ensued

 A little nap after lunch was well needed after the morning's excitement. Pat made us an amazing meal of Rare Steaks, Braatkartoffel & peas with caramelized  onions and bacon - scrumptious with the Skipper's wine to top it off :) 

The sun set on what was a truly memorable once-in-a-lifetime experience - our Equator Day.