Although we crossed the Equator last night, we celebrated the event today. Come to think of it, we have already crossed the line three times already since January, but did not recognize it. According to the Captain, King Neptune had looked the other way.
So after breakfast, we made our way to deck nine to catch the action from above the Lido dome pool area. Knowing this crowd, we expect those who wanted the closest seats to the ceremony, were there several hours ago. Saving seats. Up on the top deck, we could get to the railing and watch the entire parade from above.
What made today better was the fact that we would all become “Emerald Shellbacks”, a distinction given to those who have crossed the Equator and the Prime Meridian at Latitude 0 degrees, and Longitude 0 Degrees. Even with all of the various cruises we had done over the years, this would be a first for us. The best way to describe this is simple. The bow of the ship will be in the Western hemisphere, the spring and north latitude. The stern will be in the Eastern hemisphere, which is autumn and south latitude. Later on, we understand the ship missed the mark by a mere 15 feet. Only the “brainiacs” among the crowd would be disappointed. The certificates we received were pretty nice with the format done in color. Highly ornamental and worthy of saving.
The actual ceremony was as corny as ever, but so much fun for those who participated. These days, the “pollywogs” or first time crossers, are all staff. So are the judge, jury, and King Neptune and his queen. Most all the “slimers” came from the guest relations desk. As each pollywog got judged, they were sent to kiss the fish, then sentenced to be slimed with egg whites, tinted in pink, blue, and green colors. At least they stopped using pounds of cooked spaghetti and the rubber chickens that used to fly in the air with strings of phony sausages. What a mess to clean up later.
Since it was so hot outside, we lasted until we got the best of the photos, and left. The messy ceremony would continue while repeating the process over and over until they ran out of prisoners. By the time it ended, we were already at the aft pool, laying our own towel-covered lounges for a few hours. It was the first time we have made it back there since we got to Maputo. Sure was nice to be back to normal.
We did Dive In burgers and hot dogs, bringing it to our room to dine. Guest speakers had their talks on the TV, so while we still had downtime with the internet, we caught up on research for the upcoming African ports. We learned more about white sharks and African plantations while we worked.
Dinner time came at 8pm, and we finally joined everyone at our regular table. Despite being gone for three nights, all was the same at the table. Seems that we have adopted another guest, who comes frequently. He is Peter, and happens to be a host for a small group onboard. He also happens to be an old room- mate of one of our tablemates, like 50 years ago.
We had the pork loin entrée, which was really good. Some nights are better than others, since it is hard to appeal to everyone all of the time. Must be good, because most all of us at our table have complained about that little “something” that has shrunk the clothes in our closets. Like the waistbands and jackets are getting a bit snug.
Bill & Mary Ann
Kiss the fish
The King Neptune Ceremony
Wonder if this is her final world cruise?
Getting slimed
Another one
Thumbs down, you are dunked
