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Masts being hoisted on restored Bluenose II, sails and rigging to come later

LUNENBURG, N.S. – Another step in the restoration of Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador is taking place in Lunenburg.

The Bluenose II was relaunched last month to much fanfare after an extensive two-year, $15.9-million restoration that saw its entire hull and much of its deck replaced.

Beginning today, the iconic schooner’s masts will be hoisted into place by a crane in a process known as stepping.

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In keeping with tradition, two coins – a 2012 silver dollar and a commemorative coin created by Amos Pewter in nearby Mahone Bay – will be placed in each of the masts as tokens of good luck.

Unlike much of the vessel, the provincial government says the Douglas fir masts were not replaced as part of the restoration.

The stepping process could take a couple of days.

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The 43-metre vessel’s canvas sails and rigging will be installed this spring before setting sail for a tour of Nova Scotia communities.

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