The Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariner the story of Noah and the Great Flood, one of the oldest Biblical tales, serves as the foundation for the R.A.M. Degree. Yet, the roots of this Degree stretch back over 300 years in Craft workings. Since 1871, it has been under the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales, though it has been practiced in Mark Lodges since 1790.

If you’re looking to join a unique and independent group, the Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariner, or R.A.M. Degree, could be perfect for you! This fraternity is exclusively for those who are already Mark Master Masons, making it a special part of the Freemasonry family. When you enter, you’ll experience a warm and relatively brief 45-minute ceremony known as an ‘Elevation’, which welcomes you into this inviting circle.

The R.A.M. Degree is lovingly referred to as ‘the beautiful Degree’, and it truly is one of the most uplifting experiences in Freemasonry. It offers a wealth of interesting and valuable lessons while showcasing some of the most exquisite rituals. Plus, the regalia is simply eye-catching, featuring a stunning array of rainbow colours that symbolize unity!

This Fraternity offers more than just another Masonic Degree; it has its own unique charm that’s hard to put into words! You’ll find a genuine bond of fellowship among Royal Ark Mariners, one of the heartwarming elements that define this, Degree.

Every Royal Ark Mariner Lodge is ‘moored’ to a Lodge of Mark Master Masons and bears the same number but not necessarily the same name. It is common for R.A.M. Lodges to meet on the same day as the Mark Lodge to which they are attached and to hold a joint Festive Board. The core messages of the two Degrees beautifully complement each other.

In the Mark Degree, you gain insights on the importance of doing what you know is right and staying on a righteous path, even when others may not understand your choices.

The Royal Ark Mariner Degree takes this a step further by illustrating the strength found in working together as a family or group, doing what’s right even in challenging times. Both Degrees share the wonderful message that virtue rewards itself, embodying the spirit of new beginnings and fresh perspectives on life.

The esteemed role of executive officers in the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons comes with a fun fact: they must have been Obligated as Royal Ark Mariners and have served as Installed Commanders of a Lodge of Royal Ark Mariners before being appointed! The Fraternity is guided by the Grand Master’s Royal Ark Council. And here’s a neat detail—the Grand Master of the Grand Lodge of Mark Master Masons of England and Wales, M.W. Bro. HRH Prince Michael of Kent, also holds the title of Grand Master of the Ancient and Honourable Fraternity of Royal Ark Mariner.