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Launching ceremonies..?
This is a couple of years old, from the Cruising List:
--------- Begin forwarded message ----------
From: RICK LOWENTHAL
1) Placing a coin under the mast. I'm paraphrasing here from Earl
Hinz: This was supposed to assure the ancient sailor that if the
ship met with calamity, his soul would be saved. Started with the
ancient Roman custom of placing coins in the mouths of the dead to
pay Charon for transport across the river Styx. The coins would pay
for all hands lost in any mishap. Coins should be silver or gold
from the country where mast was stepped.
2) Breaking a bottle of wine across the ship's bow. Attempts to
appease the gods who needed libations. "Say bless this ship and all
who sail on her". If cheap wine, pour on the decks; champagne, pour
down your mouth.
3) Nailing a horseshoe to the foremast. Supposed to thwart the
witches and wizards who sought to hinder a voyage.
4) Don't launch on a Friday. Good friday is okay. Crucifixion was on
a Friday. "A Friday's sail always fail".
I'm sure there are other yarns, these are the ones I have familiarity
with.
--------- End forwarded message ----------
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