Traditions All Around Us

In my family Christmas is full of traditions, sometimes we are not sure where they come from or how they start but we live by them and enjoy them coming round again and again! It all starts with cooking Sausage rolls together….loads of them, sausage rolls coming out of our ears!! Christmas eve is full of present delivering, seeing friends and family members before the big day then back home to have Scampi (every year without fail and we are not sure why! haha). Then the big day is here stockings first thing in bed, I may not be a child anymore but my mum still does us stockings bless her, those amazing sausage rolls for breakfast followed by a crisp dog walk along the beach! The rest of the day is filled with more food, bubbles, presents, games and precious family time!

I’m sure everyone has their version of Christmas and traditions that differ from everyone else that’s the beauty of them however everyone shares very similar traditions that come as part of a holiday on a cruise ship.

One thing that makes this industry so unique are the cruise traditions, with many staying put, despite modern innovations and the growing size of the ships. Perhaps it’s these traditions that create a sense of nostalgia. Here are a few rituals that we all know and love!

Godmothers

Before making their maiden voyage, cruise ships are christened and blessed by their godmothers. History says that water, wine and even blood have been used in blessing a ship. Modern day blessings have now evolved into red carpet affairs, hosting celebrities and even royalty. Traditionally, a bottle of champagne is broken against the ship’s hull and a godmother is named to bless the ship on its journeys.

Sail-Away Party

Once you’ve settled into your cabin,  you can make your way to the deck to bid farewell and begin your bon voyage celebrations by raising a toast.. The good old-fashioned sail-away deck party has evolved over time – traditionally, guests would line up along the port-facing rails on deck as the ship glided offshore. The Sail-Away Party is your first chance to celebrate onboard so enjoy the cocktail of the day at the top-deck bar and start making new friends.

The Captain’s dinner

If there’s one opportunity to really go for it and glam up on your cruise, it’s the Captain’s dinner. Traditionally, this is a chance for you to meet the Captain of your ship, enjoy a complimentary glass of fizz, and enjoy a formal occasion where everyone is decked in their finest. The Captain’s dinner is a highlight for many cruisers it really makes cruising stand out from a land based holiday.

The Baked Alaska Parade

A “dining room production” originally conceived to generate more tips back in the “cash tip” days, the entire team of waiters, busboys, dishwashers and finally the chef, come out carrying baked Alaska whilst all of the guest are waving their white napkins over their head. This may be a very old tradition but its a great to watch and be a part of.

Do you think cruise traditions are a great part of cruising or do you think they need updating? What’s your favourite cruise tradition?