MOTIVATOR: De-name/Rename

Upon acquiring our DeFever 49, we found that the name Eagle’s Nest held no significance for us, and therefore needed to be changed. We did not move into this endeavor carelessly, however because we had been warned by friends to ensure we did a “proper” renaming ceremony, and “don’t get cheap on the Champagne.” Taking shortcuts just invites bad ju-ju. But first, one must do a proper de-naming.

First order of business is the removable of the retired name. This includes remove all physical traces of the boat's old name. Take the old log book ashore, along with any other papers that bear the old name. Check for offending books and charts with the name inscribed. Sand away the old name from the lifebuoys, transom, top-side, dinghy, and oars. Painting over is not good enough.

Don't place the new name anywhere on the boat before the de-naming ceremony is carried out.

“In the name of all who have sailed aboard this ship in the past, and in the name of all who may sail aboard her in the future, we invoke the ancient gods of the wind and the sea to favor us with their blessing today.

We offer you our thanks for the protection you have afforded this vessel in the past. We voice our gratitude that she has always found shelter from tempest and storm and enjoyed safe passage to port.
Now, wherefore, we submit this supplication, that the name whereby this vessel has hitherto been known Eagle’s Nest be struck and removed from your records."

Then one must allow a reasonable time before renaming (at least 24 hours). This was not a problem for us because we were at the mercy of the sign company.

Of course, I had to do a little touchup.

The final part of the ceremony, the libation, must be performed on the bow.

In a naming ceremony, there are two things to watch out for here. Don't use cheap-cheap champagne, and don't try to keep any for yourself. Buy a second bottle if you want some. For my Scottish wife, pouring a whole bottle of expensive champagne over the boat presented a challenge...