Captain’s log
Sail training the crew of Bluenose II
It’s been a quiet week here on Bluenose II. That’s okay — there has been enough excitement elsewhere in the province. Last Friday our American Bureau of Shipping inspector attended the ship and watched as the mates put the crew through their drills. With the inspector pleased with the crew’s progress, we received the certificates required for our summer travels. It’s sort of like a driving test and a motor vehicle inspection all at the same time!
Inspections and Safety Training
What an incredible week in Nova Scotia history. It’s strange when you look back at disasters in Nova Scotia: the August Gales, the Westray Mine disaster, hurricanes Juan or Fiona. They all happen quickly; 24-48 hours and things are generally resolved leaving communities to pick up and somehow carry on. On a ship, we look for the wind to begin to change or the barometer to rise, showing the storm isn’t over but it is passing.
Pulling, stepping and raising masts
After some minor repairs and a good inspection, we were finally ready to re-step the foremast this week. I would have preferred to step it a week ago, but we were scheduling with Old Town Boatworks, who had a large yacht to launch. In order that we could have the crane in Lunenburg when it was best for everybody, we all compromised. Of course, spring road restrictions and the availability of the crane from Lawrence Veinotte Enterprises were the final piece of the puzzle. With our shrouds all inspected by Ironbound Rigging and all our blocks hung the mast was quickly lifted into place.
Goodbyes, photoshoots, and boat chess.
What a week it has been here in Lunenburg. The week began with the long-awaited departure of Picton Castle. First hobbled by Covid-19 and then by an unfortunate issue with a broken marine railway, Capt. Moreland and Picton Castle have been stuck in port for several years. We sent the crew along with horns to join the throng of well-wishers. It is such an emotional event to watch a vessel slip her lines. Ships are not built to stay at the wharf they must travel and exercise their crews, however, to watch so many friends and colleagues depart all at the same time tugs at the heart strings.
Work in all weather
How ridiculous has the weather been this week? Torrential rain and wind on Monday and by Wednesday we were all in parkas and wool watch caps. Fog, frost, sunshine, and rain, I'm sure you all have been watching your gardens and wondering when to plant. As the environment changes around us, the wisdom of our elders may no longer hold true anymore.