Above Watch: After years of delays and over payments the Bluenose II is almost ready to sail. Global’s Natasha Pace reports.
LUNENBURG, N.S. – Nova Scotia’s troubled Bluenose II schooner is finally getting closer to sailing again.
Crews were busy in Lunenburg on Tuesday morning putting some final touches on the vessel while provincial Transportation Minister Geoff MacLellan came to meet the captain and take a tour.
“It’s really a marvel in design and construction, and despite what has happened with the funding, with the process, with the timeline and the engineering, it’s an incredible vessel,” MacLellan said. “It’s one that when people see it sailing for themselves, they’re going to be proud.”
READ MORE: Bluenose II report says poor planning led to delays, increased costs
There are still a number of things that need to be completed before the ship sails, according to the province. Phil Watson, the vessel’s captain, said before it sets sail, some changes need to be made and the crew needs more training.
The Bluenose II is slated to begin accepting visitors in early July, something Watson has been anticipating for years.
“This is my life. I’ve been here for 28 years now and this is what I do,” he said. “I’m passionate about this, I’m passionate about the young crew that are here and about what this job has to offer them.”
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The schooner’s rebuild has been plagued by confusion and delays: it was supposed to cost $14 million and be finished in 2012, but three years later, the cost has ballooned to nearly $20 million. Dock trials last spring turned up a number of issues, including major problems with its steering.
MacLellan said he wants to see the Bluenose II operating as soon as possible.
Emma Pentz, who will work on the ship, said seeing it ready to set sail again is welcome news.
“It’s really an honour to be able to work on it because I grew up in the area,” she said. “I’ve seen it my entire life growing up, so it’s awesome to be a part of it now.”
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