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Crossing the Line

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Crossing the line is the noting of the crossing of certain imaginary lines, such as the equator or the arctic circle, by holding traditional ceremonies and initiating those who are crossing the lines for the first time. Each initiation has its own unique aspects.

Some line crossing ceremonies are

  • Order of the Blue Nose. For sailors who have crossed the Arctic Circle.
  • Order of the Red Nose. For sailors who have crossed the Antarctic Circle.
  • Order of the Golden Dragon. For sailors who have crossed the International Date Line.
  • Order of the Ditch. For sailors who have passed through the Panama Canal.
  • Order of the Rock. For sailors who have transited the Strait of Gibraltar.
  • Safari to Suez. For sailors who have passed through the Suez Canal.
  • Golden Shellback. For sailors who have crossed the point where the Equator crosses the International Date Line.
  • Emerald Shellback. For sailors who cross at 0 degrees off the coast of West Africa where the Equator crosses the Prime Meridian.
  • Realm of the Czars. For sailors who have crossed into the Black Sea.