With the hectic routines at sea, good old traditions of celebrating such occasions as crossing of "Equator" and "International Dateline" have long been relegated to the annals of maritime history only. Therefore it was rather refreshing to note that our managed vessel "JO LIND" had managed to enthuse its seafarers to hold an enjoyable ceremony on board on 15th March, when vessel was en route from Panjang, Indonesia to Rotterdam.

Role of King Neptune was impeccably played by Third Officer Mr Susanta Mohapatro, who dressed up with long flowing white beard tried to act and look every part as the venerable Sea God. The first time equator crossing staff receiving the special treatment were:

E/O:	Mr Charanjit Singh,
CDTs:	Rohit Kumar and Yogesh Mhatre
TME:	Mr Yogesh
GS:	Mr Jogi
Tech:	Mr Patel

The first timers had to beg for forgiveness from King Neptune for daring to cross the Equator without his approval and were provided mild punishments such as painting of faces, taken quite sportingly by the "victims".

All ship staff finally landed up in the pool to cool themselves on this hot summer day. Finally, as the befitting climax to end the ceremony, King Neptune (along with his flowing beard and dress) received a respectable dunking in the seawater of the pool.

Highlight of the day was a sumptuous dinner specially prepared to mark the occasion by the Ch/Cook for all ship's staff to round up this very interesting and enjoyable ceremony.

- Article and photos by Capt. Avish
Master M/T Jo Lind