Image Gallery
-
Royal Naval Museum Collection
-
Portsmouth Royal Dockyard Historic Trust Collection
-
Royal Navy Submarine Museum Collection
-
Royal Marines Museum Collection
Crossing the Line
Crossing the Line Ceremony occurs when a ship crosses the Equator. Every member who crosses the Equator for the first time undergoes an initiation process. It is practised in many navies around the world, including the Royal Navy. Originally the tradition was created as a test for seasoned sailors to ensure their new shipmates were capable of handling long, rough periods at sea. It is a highlight of the ship’s tour and the whole ship’s company turns out to see the Ceremony.
This Gallery shows some of the certificates awarded for completing the induction and more photos of the ceremony itself. Learn more about the ceremony in “Crossing the Line across the Century” in the Navy’s People Section.
Crossing the Arctic Circle Certificate
The crossing the Arctic Circle certificate of Chief Petty Officer Betram Lagard. He received it whilst serving as part of an Arctic convoy onboard HMS Fitzroy, on 23rd October 1944. He was now entitled to be called a Loyal Member of the Most Ancient Order of the Bluenose.
