The 'Mariners', as they are popularly known, is mentioned here as it occupies an important place within the Order of Mark Masonry. Royal Ark Mariner Lodges are attached to a Mark Lodge and bear the number of that Lodge.  The ritual of the ceremony of elevation makes use of illustrations from the Old Testament and the building of the ark by Noah for the preservation of mankind, to expound the virtues of morality and the properties of wisdom, strength and beauty.

A candidate must be a Mark Master Mason to be proposed, seconded, balloted for and elevated into a Royal Ark Mariner Lodge. He can then progress through the various offices and become the Worshipful Commander of the Lodge.  There are 20 Royal Ark Mariner Lodges in Durham, all meeting between 2 and 4 times each year.