My friend Jimmy found the perfect vacation for us. A free trip to Brazil on a boat with the Merchant Marines. A couple stops in some Carribean stops, and all we had to do was some minor chores in the mornings. It was a cruise!
When we boarded ship, we found the quartars very cramped. Jimmy and I shared a cramped area with 2 other shipmen. 4 bunks, and now we could see why we were restricted as to the amount of belongings we were permitted to bring along.
One bathroom, with a toilet, and cramped shower was difficult. Most of the guys just peed over the side of the ship, and for bathing, they would go above deck and use the availabe hose. Jimmy and I were more modest to do these things, but nobody seemed to mind.
There were plenty of fun times when we came to port in the Carribean.
When we got to a coral reef, every one snorkled. All these guys were naked except for their finns and masks. Jimmy and I joined in, but kept our briefs on, since swimsuits weren't on the clothing list. I was somewhat embarrased when helped on to the ship, my water logged underpants were around my ankles.
One morning when we reached Brazil, Jimmy and I were suddenly awaken.! I saw Jimmy hoisted away by 4 sailors, and the nest thing I knew, my brief were pulled off, and I was carried on deck. Jimmy was so modest, he had his hands clasped in front of him, with a look of terror in his eyes! The captain informed us that we had just crossed the ecquater, and an initiation ceremony had to be done!
Jimmy was tied to a poll, as I was brought to an type of harness. I was securely fastened to this harness which went around my shoulders, then down around my crotch. I could feel a fastening around my upper back, and the next thing I knew, I was hoisted up off the deck, and facing 2 sailors with fraterity size paddles!
I felt helpless, suspended, but soon was hoisted up, sent over the side of the ship, and slowly dunked into the ocean. I am quickly hosted up again only to see the eager looks of the sailors, with the paddles in their hands. I am lowered, dripping wet, but still suspended in mid air. I immediately feel whack after whack on my wet bare bottom. I endure this 3 times, 30 whacks at a time, and 3 dunkings. My butt is SO SORE!
Finally I am released, but I see them bringing a frightned Jimmy to the harness. He has his hand cupped in front of him, but not for long. He is wimpering before they even get him in the harness. I feel so sory for him but am made to watch him go through his dripping wet little fanny get smacked until it looked like a cherry red tomato.
Needless to say, we didn't think we could ever face these guys again, but to our surprise, we were applauded, and treated with the greatest respect. We had gone through what all these guys had gone through.
The rest of the trip was great!