Crossing the line

At 09:37 on Saturday 18th October, we crossed the equator. Toilets stopped in mid flush and started swirling in the opposite direction. In practical terms, it means absolutely nothing except we are marginally closer to our destination than an hour before. We are about as far from land as we will be on the run to St. Helena, and on the bridge the ship tracker shows not a single vessel within 250nautical miles.

In reality though, it make a huge difference. In nautical history, crossing the line is a major psychological boost, and for hundreds of years, the ceremony of crossing the line has been performed at sea. Historically, it is performed on anybody crossing for the first time (this includes navy vessels) and whilst there is no fixed routine, you will generally get tarred, feathered, and dunked at the very least. At the very least, you will get very, very messy.

For us, we didn't get the chance to decide, and 3names were chosen at random (plus the kids), and I admit to being amazed that I wasn't on there. Andy, Caroline and Protiea were good sports, and the officers led by Neptune Queen of the Sea, let loose. Perhaps pictures are more appropriate here...