Since the first sailors ventured off land they have all been superstitious. Changing the name of a boat is tantamount to disaster if proper procedures are not rigorously followed. Appeasing the ancient gods of the winds and seas must be accomplished for the renamed boat to have any chance of survival.
Steve and Veronica joined us on lucky Sunday (2-7-15) to implore Neptune to erase Chariot from his list of vessels and replace that venerable name with LyonsRoar. The gods demand proper libations for such a request and champagne was liberally shared.
Our good friends Steve and Veronica join us for the renaming ritual.
All traces of the previous name must be removed from the boat or rendered unreadable. There must be nothing left to confuse Neptune about the boat’s new name. A small piece of metal with the old boat’s name on it is tossed into the drink for Neptune to see during the de-naming ceremony.
Karen holds the metal tag with Chariot on it to toss to Neptune.
Neptune is implored to continue allowing the vessel and all who sail aboard her to have safe passage. A generous pour of champagne is offered to Neptune and the witnesses also imbibe.
Neptune is offered a champagne toast.
Mighty Aeolus, guardian of the winds, is also given a giant swig. The captain joins the guests and gods in toasting good fortune.
Captain Jeff joins the gods and guests in toasting good fortune.
During the renaming rite champagne is shared with Neptune and each god of the four winds. A giant slosh of champagne is made from north to south for Boreas and Notus, then a slashing pour from east to west for Zephyrus and Eurus to enjoy. Of course, the guests toast each deity along with Captain Jeff.
The captain and his guests toast to Neptune and the wind gods.
The old signboards were two sided so Chariot could display her Coast Guard Auxiliary status when working on missions. It made sliding in the new signboards for LyonsRoar a piece of cake. May the rulers of the winds and waves be kind to LyonsRoar and all who leave land to explore the oceans aboard her! Cheers!
Chariot’s signboards are replaced with LyonsRoar.