Captain Watson

Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
Halifax, NS

Good Morning all,

I can't believe that this is the last day for Tall Ships Halifax. I'm sure the organizers are holding their breath and hoping the weather clears. The fog yesterday was unbelievable. The United States Coast Guard Barque Eagle is docked less than 200 yards away and at one point yesterday I could not see her. Literally, I could not see a 300 foot sailing vessel that was sitting 600 feet away. That's thick fog.

We have had lots of visitors here since we arrived. Alumni, Fred A, Cory H., Janice M., Pat R., Kayla G.,Nick P., Rick M., Rob F., Sean L. have been here to say hi and have a look at the ships. In terms of general public numbers we have had over 6000 people in the last two days. We have had lots of compliments from the public who visit the ship about how good the crew have the ship looking. The bright work is shining and the decks are bright with their oil coating.

The crew have been having a great time both at the crew events and on their own in the wilds of Halifax. They particularly enjoyed the event on Thursday night. Drum was there as well as a choir and more entertainment. In Boston the big crew event was charging $10.00 for a beer. Here there was proper hospitality and pricing, as befitting true Nova Scotia hospitality.

The crew also participated in the crew parade yesterday. They carried ships and Canadian flags and waved to the small but enthusiastic crowd. The mates and I stood the deck watch to welcome our guests aboard as all the crew were away.

Parade of Sail tomorrow at 12:00, we will depart the wharf at 10:30 in order to get the sails ready and to get into the proper position. I'm looking forward to getting underway again and getting home to see my family. My little girl lost her first tooth while we were away and I can't wait to see the new smile.

That's all for now,

Phil Watson
Bluenose II