Pollywog to Shellback

How to turn a pollywog in to a shellback.

On the 5th April we crossed the Equator on the way to Bangkok.
Many passengers had not crossed the ‘line’ before, so according to tradition they are Pollwogs. A ceremony was required to satisfy King Neptune and turn them in to Shellbacks. Fortunately I had crossed the line while at sea and Maureen has a certificate stating that she crossed the line when flying in a B 707 in the 1960’s, so we were Shelbacks and in the audience.

Neptune and his wife’s throne.

Jelly, cream, spaghetti and other slippery food waiting for the Pollywogs.

Not all of us have a point and click camera.

Neptune and his wife arrives.

Courtier opens the ceremony.

Each Pollywog kisses a fish in respect of the sea. (I am not sure what kind of fish was used, but it was a large one).

 Various coloured food was thrown at the Pollywogs.

The heat on deck grew too much for these two Shellbacks, so we went for lunch in the air conditioned restaurant..

Author: 1944april

Traveled a great deal - about 80 countries - first foreign country I suppose was Wales, which was only 80 miles away from where I was born. Visited each Continent, except Antarctica, and I doubt that it is on my bucket list - too cold. I love Asian food, Australian wine & British beer & trying to entertain by writing. View all posts by 1944april