Today we had visit from King Neptune, the guardian of the sea. In seafaring tradition when a ship crosses the equator you must get the blessing of one King Neptune to continue to have a safe passage. For any crew member crossing the equator for the first time, this is not a fun (well somewhat fun but really messy) endeavor. The crew member is now a Polliwog and is shackled and kept in a prison on the Lido deck. The ship's officers arrive (Captain and all), then the ceremony commences with the arrival of King Neptune and his Bride. One by one the prisoners are removed from holding and presented in front of the jury (the officers), the charges are read, King Neptune responds as does his Bride, then the Polliwog is sentenced but before they must "kiss the fish" (as the crowd chants), then the rock music begins as they slather the Polliwogs with some food coloured mess, yuck!!! The officers then determine if they should bake in the hot sun or be dunked in the pool. Great event, great fun, many of the singers and dancer cast members crossed for the first time as well as Dezy, our wonderful helper at breakfast - she was really nervous. This was a nice relaxing day at sea, one more before we must start getting our packing in order...
Quote of the day. Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry and narrow-mindedness. - Mark Twain.
