Many people are unaware of the importance and celebration that is involved when bringing a boat to life. By bringing the boat to life, I mean it is named aloud and launched into the water. This is an old naval tradition that dates back thousands of years, and is a public celebration and blessing in the water world.
There are many superstitions intended to invite good luck and safety to the vessel, and “christening” by breaking a sacrificial bottle of champagne over the bow is the most popular. There was a slightly different standing-cup ceremony that happened in the early 17th century, where an official took a sip of wine from a cup then threw it overboard. Late in 17th century Britain, the standing-cup ceremony was replaced by the practice of breaking a bottle across the bow instead.
If you ever get an invitation to witness the birth of a ship, take advantage of this historical, yet modern celebration. This birthday party is one that you will never forget!
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