Originally created as a test to ensure new sailors were capable of handling long, rough stretches at sea, the “Crossing the Line” ceremony is an initiation rite used by many navies to commemorate a sailor’s first crossing of the equator. Sailors who have already crossed the equator are nicknamed Shellbacks; those who have not are called Pollywogs. Many navies now have regulations to prevent hazing during the tradition, which often involves various physical tests. What is a Golden Shellback? Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary