“For thousands of years we have gone to sea. We have crafted vessels to carry us and we have called them by name. These ships will nurture us and care for us through perilous seas, and so we affectionately call them ‘she.’ To them we toast, and ask to celebrate [boat name]. TO THE SAILORS OF OLD . . . TO [boat name]! [First toast].
“The moods of the sea are many, from tranquil to violent. We ask that this ship be given the strength to carry on. The keel is strong and she keeps out the pressures of the sea. TO THE SAILORS OF OLD. . . TO THE SEA! [Second Toast]
“Today we name this lady [boat name] and send her to sea to be cared for, and to care for [boat’s owners]. We ask the sailors of old and the mood of God that is the sea, to accept [boat name] as her name, to help her through her passages, and allow her to return with her crew safely, TO THE SEA . . . TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US . . . TO [boat name]! [Third Toast, with a bit for Neptune as well]
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