It is a tradition on Hurtigrutin ships that when they cross the Arctic Circle going north, first-time crossers are encouraged, but not required, to participate in the initiation ceremony befitting crossing from one cold place to a slightly colder place.
I willingly took my coat off on the cold and windy deck, sat on a chair looking like I’d just been arrested, along with four other condemned passengers, and braced myself for our introduction into the Arctic by having a large soup ladle of ice dumped down my back (inside my shirt) by undernourished King Neptune. The new employee of the Lofoten got the full baptism with the full punch bowl of ice and icy water dumped on her head.
I was surprised how many people didn’t take part. I wouldn’t have missed it.
Journeys 
What will those wild and crazy Norwegians think of next?? You look like you could easily pass for a native Norsewoman. Congratulations on crossing the Arctic Circle! I’ll hoist a shot glass of Aquavit in your honor!
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