ROYAL NAVY TERMS & CUSTOMS

Naval Terms

What do they mean?’

- Dates back to the Crusades AD 1248. Used to pass orders and worn as an honoured badge of rank.

- 1485–1562 badge of the Lord High Admiral of England.

- Used for passing orders since 1562 in the English fleet.

- About 1671 we find it referred to as a ‘call’ and it has been known as this ever since.

The Bosun’s Call

- Now badge of office of Chief Bosun’s Mate, Quartermaster and Bosun’s Mates.

The Ship’s Bell - History can be traced as far back

as the ancient Greeks and Phoenicians

- Always been used to signal time & alarm

- Bears the ship’s name and date of launching.

- Unless damaged, it remains with the ship until she is sold or broken up, then it is either presented to the affiliated city or town or offered for sale.

Four principal uses in the RN:− Time Striking the Bell – no longer used to signal time, but it is used on

occasions such as at Colours and Evening Colours. The Sea Cadet Corps continues to maintain the tradition of time-keeping.

− Alarm – It could be used to raise the alarm in the event of fire or other emergency. When at anchor, the Bell may be used to warn ships in fog.

− Tolling – It can be used like a church bell to call the ship’s company to prayers. It is used in the Sea Cadet Corps at the start of prayers following Colours.

− Christening Font – Turned upside down in a cradle, it is filled with water, blessed by the chaplain and used as a font for a christening.

The Ship’s Bell

Saluting the Quarterdeck

− Many years ago a crucifix was affixed at the entrance to the Quarterdeck.

− The Sign of the Cross was made entering/leaving the Quarterdeck – the start of saluting.

− Tradition remains that the Quarterdeck is saluted.

Dressing ShipThis is when a ship flies flags to mark a special event or occasion and signal flags are flown in a continuous line from stem to stern via the mastheads.

At one time, ships displayed flags and trophies captured from their enemy.

The introduction of sailors into the brotherhood of the Seas and as subjects of His Oceanic Majesty King Neptune’.

Crossing The LineA ceremony involving anyone that has never crossed the equator before. It involves lots of water, soap, scrubbing brushes and lots of fun for everyone!

Crossing The Line Certificate

Any Questions?