Day 29: From Polliwog to Shellback

It’s official Donna and I have crossed the equator for the first time in our lives. This means we are no longer ‘polliwogs’ we have risen to “Shellback” status.

Around 9:30 A.M. people started to gather at the pool. Beka and other staff were passing out nice rum punch drinks while the music played and the excitement built.

Aoibhin, our Cruise Director, led the ceremonies, reading the story of Neptune and crossing the equator. First, she held court over all the new polliwog crew members who had never crossed the line separating the hemispheres. They were all found guilty and had to take the plunge.

All the polliwogs, lined up - 1) Salute the fish (it use to be kiss the fish) 2) Plunge into the pool, 3) take your Aquavit shot when you get out of the pool. You are now officially an “Order of the Shellback” member. I am sure our certificates will be delivered to our room later.

The Captain and Senior Crew members also got in on the fun and took the plunge. Finally, like Cinderella losing her glass slipper after the ball, Aoibhin shed her 4 inch heels and took the plunge.Read more