Bluenose II Continues to Sail Strong
Nova Scotia's sailing ambassador, Bluenose II, has just wrapped up another successful sailing season, Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Len Goucher announced today, Oct. 20.
"Bluenose II plays an important role in promoting the province to key tourism markets," said Mr. Goucher. "She promotes our proud, seafaring heritage and culture and represents the kinds of experiences Nova Scotia has to offer."
In June, Bluenose II made seven ports of call in New England, where tens of thousands of people visited her and picked up provincial tourism materials. She then returned home to Nova Scotia for the peak season, visiting five local ports and hosting 100 harbour tours -- as many as possible in one season. In total, during the 2006 season, Bluenose II traveled about 4,000 nautical miles, carried 7,000 passengers and welcomed 30,000 visitors.
"People come to Nova Scotia to see Bluenose II, so we have to make sure she is in port for most of the sailing season so they are not disappointed," said Mr. Goucher.
In September, Bluenose II returned to Lunenburg. She is now tied up for the winter season and undergoing routine maintenance, including some caulking to the hull.
Capt. Wayne Walters, director of operations for Bluenose II, said Bluenose II is in good condition and can continue to sail for many years to come.
"I know almost every inch of her and I can assure you that she is in great shape for a vessel of her age," said Capt. Walters, who is also a former master of Bluenose II and grandson of Capt. Angus Walters, skipper of the original Bluenose.
Capt. Phil Watson, the current master of Bluenose II, agrees. "Having worked on board Bluenose II for 20 years, I can say with confidence that she can sail for a long time with the proper maintenance," said Capt. Watson.
Since the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society took over as operator of the Bluenose II two years ago, the vessel has undergone a great deal of much needed work. More than $300,000 was invested in repairs and maintenance, which included four new sails, a new main mast, and total recaulking of the hull.
"We have an excellent relationship with our partner, the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society," said Mr. Goucher. "They share our commitment to preserving Bluenose II and representing the best interests of the people of Lunenburg and Nova Scotia. Together we will ensure that the Bluenose legacy is preserved and promoted for future generations."
Mr. Goucher said recent claims that a new vessel to replace Bluenose II is needed now are not accurate.
"There's no urgency to build a new boat when the Bluenose II is being maintained and performing her duties well," said Mr. Goucher. "The legacy of Bluenose belongs to no individual or group, but to all Nova Scotians. When the time comes to build a Bluenose III, the province will be doing so in partnership with the Town of Lunenburg, home port of the Bluenose, and others who have an interest." He added that a Bluenose III would be built in Lunenburg.
People interested in making a donation to Bluenose II or the Bluenose legacy can give to the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society.
The schooner's 2006 sailing schedule and Capt. Phil Watson's log are both available at www.schoonerbluenose2.ca .