HALIFAX – The captain of the Bluenose II ordered a sail raised on Monday as the vessel begins the gradual process of returning to its regular duties.
Phil Watson, the vessel’s master, said he spent part of the day training the crew to raise and operate the smaller “jumbo” sail near the bow of the vessel.
The captain said the current focus is on training the crew of 18 in schooner sailing skills after a long layoff due to delays in the schooner’s restoration.
Earlier this year, the provincial auditor general said the project was delayed and was millions of dollars over the original budget because the Heritage Department failed to follow basic management practices.
Watson said Monday’s training session was a positive day that signalled the provincial sailing ambassador is taking steps towards readiness for longer journeys at sea.
The vessel is a replica of the original Bluenose, the 1921 Grand Banks fishing schooner that won worldwide acclaim for its graceful lines and speed.
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