Day 57 ~ March 03, 2015 Crossing the Equator

At the center point of the Earth, is the Equator and is also the center of the Tropics, the area lying between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn, at 23 degrees 27” north and south of the equator. The climate in the in the tropics varies; some areas have heavy rainfall and others are very hot and dry. The Sun’s heat near the equator easily evaporates water from the oceans, so the hot tropical air is also very moist. This is why there are rain forests at the equator. Also at the equator, the Sun’s rays are unaffected by the tilt of the earth, so the area is always exposed to the sun and receives direct solar rays year-round, regardless of the season. The heat is most intense at sea level, but as you move to the mountains, it can get very cold. In fact, you might find snow at the equator. 

So that is a bit of knowledge.  Now to the fun part.  When you cross the equator with HAL they have this ceremony on every ship that crosses it.
Overseeing the equator is King Neptune (known in Greek mythology as Poseidon) and in the time-honoured seafaring fashion there was a ceremony on board to ensure safe passage. The festivities were 
marked by the appearance of King Neptune/Poseidon, Chief of the Water Deities. His symbol of power is the trident - a spear with three points on its head. He uses his staff to shatter rocks and call for or subdue storms. Neptune created the horse and upon these powerful creatures, with their brazen hoofs and golden manes, drew his chariot over the sea, which became smooth before him. So to not mess with the Gods the tradition of seafaring merrymaking honouring Neptune is performed so in return we may have safe passage and smooth waters. Any and all staff members from bow to stern who cross the equator for the first time must participate in this ceremony. They are called the Pollywogs.  They are brought in and sent into a holding/Jail before the are brought to court to be presented to King Neptune.  There are charges to be read for each of them than they must Kiss the Fish.  a very ugly real smelly fish.  Then they all get slimmed with this colored slime.  After that they are presented to the jury which is usually the Captain of the Ship and his Officers,  They either give the thumbs up for saving them and letting them sit in the sun to bake or a thumbs down and they go into the water and get washed off.  After the ceremony is completed the pool is drained and cleaned and refilled that night.  this is a not to miss party