Renaming a Boat

It’s not unusual for the new owners of a vessel to want to name the boat with something that has meaning for them, not the previous owners.  In our last issue, we reviewed the process of removing the old name of the boat and giving appropriate thanks for the vessel’s safe passage.  This month, we look towards applying the new name, with the requisite christening ceremony. Here’s one suggestion from www.carribeanpirates.com, assuming you’ve chosen a new name that will not insult the gods with a presumptuous name they may accept the challenge to disprove, begin thus….

“Oh mighty and great ruler of the seas and oceans, to whom all ships and we who venture upon your vast domain are required to pay homage, implore you in your graciousness to take unto your records and recollection this worthy vessel hereafter, and for all time, known as (—— insert your new boat new name——), guarding her with your mighty arm and trident and ensuring her of safe and rapid passage throughout her journeys within your realm.  In appreciation of your munificence, dispensation and in honor of your greatness, we offer these libations to your majesty and your court.”

(At this point, one bottle of Champagne, less one glass for the Captain and one glass for the Mate are poured into the sea from West to East. The next step in the renaming ceremony is to appease the gods of the winds. This will assure you of fair winds and smooth seas. Because the four winds are brothers, it is permissible to invoke them all at the same time, however, during the ceremony; you must address each by name.)

“Oh mighty rulers of the winds, through whose power our frail vessels traverse the wild and faceless deep, we implore you to grant this worthy vessel (—— new name——-) the benefits and pleasures of your bounty, ensuring us of your gentle ministration according to our needs.”

(Facing north, pour a generous libation of Champagne into a Champagne flute and fling to the North as you speak:) “Great Boreas, exalted ruler of the North Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your frigid breath.”

(Facing west, pour the same amount of Champagne and fling to the West while intoning:) “Great Zephyrus, exalted ruler of the West Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your wild breath.”

(Facing east, repeat and fling to the East.) “Great Eurus, exalted ruler of the East Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your mighty breath.”

(Facing south, repeat, flinging to the South.) “Great Notus, exalted ruler of the South Wind, grant us permission to use your mighty powers in the pursuit of our lawful endeavors, ever sparing us the overwhelming scourge of your scalding breath.”

Of course, the Captain and the Mate may now drink their portion of the champagne poured into glasses earlier, and the launch of the vessel into the water occurs.

Want to see the name of your boat here? Just email me (brad@powerboating.com) a photo of the transom of your boat and a short (150 word) story of how you choose the name.