Themes

Crossing the Line across the century

  • PDF
  • Print
  • E-mail

Page 1 of 3

What is a Crossing the Line Ceremony?

Crossing the Line Ceremonies happen when a ship crosses the Equator. All members of the crew regardless of age or rank who have not crossed the equator before must take part in the initiation ritual.

The ceremony has changed little since the 18th century. Many countries' ships would give some kind of offering to the sea and still remains in today's navies.

Crew who have crossed the equator before were nicknamed "shellbacks".

Crossing the Line Ceremony onboard HMS York 2006
Crossing the Line Ceremony onboard HMS York 2006 (RN FPU)

Article highlights