How to Name a Small Boat
Although it is not written in stone that you should name your small boat, it is a tradition that most seafarers subscribe to. Naming a boat seems almost as important as the name you give to your child, therefore, give much thought to the boat “christening." And if your boat already has a name, you can change it just make sure you do not anger the Gods.
- Determine if the boat has a name already. After you have purchased your boat, you must now determine if you can live with the name it already has. Ideally you have bought your boat new.
- Decide if your boat is male or female. If you are the first to name your boat, decide its gender. This may save you headaches later on.
- Discuss your options with those close to you. If you have a family, get their input. If you are single but have friends or other family members you know will travel with you, ask their opinions. It seems a popular custom to name a boat after a loved one. Think about this carefully and ask for permission from the person whose name you choose.
- Choose the name.
- Determine the size of the area the name will be placed. A common practice calls for placing the name of the boat on either the bow or the stern. Remember the area should be large enough to accommodate the name.
- Contact a sign maker. Whatever sign maker you choose, make sure they have experience in boat signage. They can help you determine if the name should be painted directed on the boat or if a plaque or vinyl sign would be best.
- Gather friends and family for a naming ceremony. If this is the boat’s first time being named, a simple ceremony will do. A speech from the captain, a bottle of champagne and merriment. If you are changing the name of a boat however, this is more complicated.
- Purge the old name. In order to appease the Gods, Poseidon and Neptune, you purge every mention of the old name from the boat. Dispose of any accessories, keys or papers bearing the old name.
- Have a metal tag made with the new name on it.
- Attach this to a bottle of champagne.
- Pay homage to the Gods of wind and sea. Pour half the contents into the water and share the rest with your audience.