Renaming a boat

[afrinus]

I just bought my first sail boat. Of course one of the first things my family wants to know is "What is the name of the boat ?"

Now, having read posts here and elsewhere, I understand that there are specific custom that must be followed to ensure not invoking the wrath of Poseidon when renaming a boat.

I'm new to sailing - I certainly don't want to start off on the wrong foot with him

Although the PO did name the boat, he never affixed the name on the boat or on anything else in the boat that I can find.

My question - What, or is there any custom I must follow to rename my boat?

Any help saving me from his wrath will be appreciated....

[Sublime]

You can take a piece of the boat and drop it overboard so the sea gods can record everything. Google will have plenty of renaming ceremony scripts.

I'll tell you though, don't think it gets you out of trouble. Penelope had already been named by a previous owner, but it wasn't displayed anywhere and I never was able to learn of the old name. I did the renaming ceremony and I still had things go wrong.

Popped shroud
Accidental groundings
Motor problems
Fuel leaks
Furler problems (one resulted in nearly tipping the boat off the trailer on a windy day )
Straps opening and coming loose while going down the road at 60 mph
Involuntary bribes Davy Jones.

Ugh!

I was not a newbie sailor or a newbie to towing trailers/boats.
I think those days are behind me, thank god. She's (or they've) accepted the new name and we're buddies now as long as I don't get too big for my britches. You may have to get through a few hiccups first and you may not.

(FWIW a lot of it had to do with a boat being on the hard too long. The little gal spent half her life on the hard in storage instead of being used so I guess she was pretty pissed off and why not take it out on her new skipper. What an ornery little boat I have. )

[VetMike]

Personally, if the re-naming ceremony does not include rum, you are doomed!

[Mimsy]

Google Boat renaming ceremony and you'll get lots of ideas.
In reality, its a great excuse for a party...

Here's the synopsis/pics from our renaming ceremony. I have to say it makes it better if you get kids involved. And yes, we were really behind schedule. Our boat does not like schedules.
Our Life with Ceol Mor: Boxing Day Renaming Ceremony

More pics under January...

[Siamese]

It all depends on which religion you practice. As an example, Christians can consult their ministers. Etc.. If you're an atheist, no ceremony is required.

[dnf777]

yes, a toast and toss of rum not only to Poseidon, but also to the four Winds, at a minimum.

You will likely need a lawyer, certified in Roman and Greek mythology litigation to sort out your specific questions, and they are not cheap.

Without having a name affixed to the boat or its permanent stores, you may be able to handle this is small mortal claims court, with a res facia loquitor brief.

Good luck!

[HDChopper]

I liked the virgin peeing in the bilge ceremony myself .. (you gotta check your mind at the door on this one )

& ruhm thrown to the four winds , thats a drink for all sailors lost at sea ,,,

[dnf777]

Half seriously....I think even the most devout traditionalists, conspiracists, and superstitiousnesses would agree that if no name was ever affixed to the boat....then you're probably ok to proceed with an initial naming ceremony, rather than renaming.

[Boasun]

The re-naming ceremony is a good reason for a major party. Pick your guests carefully.

[OtterGreen]

my friends boat ( pearson 32 ) before he bought it from the PO was " pebbles n chops III " ... right? it wasnt on the boat itself just on the throwing ring. he popped a bottle of nice champaign and retired the name by removing the letters. renamed it "shenanigans" on the stern and popped a nice bottle again and doused her.