On Board with Somerset Freemasons
Freemasons frequently meet on cruise ships, primarily as informal social gatherings rather than official lodge meetings.
Cruise lines like P&O Cruises and Princess Cruises are known to host these meetups, which are typically advertised in the ship’s daily newsletter or on ad-hoc event boards.
However, it was still a pleasant surprise when four Somerset Freemasons met up by chance on a 21-day P&O Britannia Cruise to the Mediterranean.
Mike Adams arranged a meeting for all Masons in the Crow’s Nest bar, to which another five Masons, some wives and two Masonic widows also attended.
These events are meant to build fraternal bonds while on holiday, they rarely involve ritual work or the wearing of formal regalia. Instead, they provide a great opportunity to network, share Masonic history, and socialise with Brethren from around the world.
Their names, and the notes of the meeting, were recorded in the Ship’s own Masonic Minute Book.
When they met up again later, they agreed to make a donation to the Captain’s Charity and collectively raised £130, which was presented to the Captain. It was very well received and admirably demonstrated that, although far from home, a Freemason is always mindful of the needs of others.
