News release

Sailing Towards a Strong Future, Op-ed

Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Dec. 2003 - Jan. 2011)

The following is an op-ed piece from Percy Paris, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.


Few images evoke as much pride for Nova Scotians as the sight of Bluenose II under full sail carrying forward the legacy of her proud namesake. Basic to our image of who we are, that legacy is now sailing into a strong future, thanks to the leadership of the province and its partners.

Whether leading a parade of sail, welcoming visitors aboard as the province's sailing ambassador or venturing out on the water from her home port of Lunenburg, Bluenose II is synonymous with Nova Scotia.

Recognizing the close bond Nova Scotians feel with Bluenose II, government acted quickly to make the restoration of our sailing ambassador, announced in May 2009, a reality.

Over the past year, work has steadily moved forward and is creating new opportunities for the Nova Scotia companies involved with this once-in-a-lifetime project. In June, the final piece fell into place -- a contract with the Lunenburg Shipyard Alliance to begin construction on the restoration project.

With the availability of federal infrastructure stimulus funds and the financial commitment of the provincial government, we are able to move forward with a substantial restoration of Bluenose II and still meet government's commitment to live within its means.

Work is proceeding on the Lunenburg waterfront to restore Bluenose II to the proud figure that was launched by the Olands in the early 1960s. Using the talents of three exceptional Nova Scotia boat builders, and benefitting from stronger wooden boat building materials, Nova Scotia's sailing ambassador is receiving the attention and care so richly deserved.

The hull is being rebuilt to better withstand stress by using stronger wood that is better protected by modern laminating techniques. Indeed, some of the wood from the hull has been preserved and will be displayed or transformed into pieces that will celebrate the Bluenose II legacy. The remainder of the wood from the hull must be replaced because it is not in a condition that can be reused or recycled. This is part of building a stronger Bluenose II.

This restoration is an opportunity to reuse many of the pieces of Bluenose II, including masts, sails and rigging, while taking advantage of the best ways to ensure the hull is able to last for years to come.

A project like the Bluenose II restoration is a rare and wonderful opportunity to showcase traditional skills and Nova Scotia's dedication to innovation. And it is all happening in full view in the midst of one of Nova Scotia's UNESCO World Heritage sites.

With the help of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, visitors will soon be able to tour the construction site from the visitor centre established by the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society. Two webcams are broadcasting the action at the waterfront site at www.novascotiawebcams.com/south-shore/, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for those unable to visit in person.

Along with all Nova Scotians, I celebrate this historic opportunity to showcase what our province and its people can accomplish when we work together towards a shared goal.