Tall ships sail into Pictou Harbour
The local community has proven again it can make miracles happen.
Central Nova MP Sean Fraser said the early arrival of the tall ships to Pictou has proven once again that Pictou County knows how to make things happen in times of need.
Fraser said strong winds from Boston pushed tall ships competing in a race to the coast of Nova Scotia sooner than expected, but the welcome mat couldn’t be rolled out in Pictou County right away.
“Due to Transport Canada regulations and security checks that needed to be conducted, they were told they couldn’t land right away and would be sent away because there was no capacity to conduct security clearances,” he said.
Fraser checked with the local harbour master whether there was anything he could do to help with the process to help get security in place for early arrival of the boats at Pictou Marine Terminals.
“We made a few phone calls to some players in the community and this allowed the Town of Pictou to have the tall ships for two extra days,” he said.
Advocate Printing made a donation as did the Pictou Sobeys while the Pictou Lodge offered rooms to people who were unexpectedly called into work. Sharon’s Place in Pictou also offered to provide food to the security employees.
In addition, Pictou Marine Terminals, known to many as Pier C, is allowing the ships to dock in Pictou free of charge Thursday and throughout the weekend.
“The big twist to this story really demonstrates the community spirit we know well in Pictou County,” said Fraser. “I am looking forward to celebrating Canada Day in style. There is more than one event, but Pictou is certainly on the list.”
The Guayas was the first to dock in Pictou Thursday morning followed by the El Galeon. Crews were busy stringing lights and cleaning the vessels in the afternoon while music from the Guayas set the tone for a fun atmosphere.
The Golden Leeuw, Bluenose II, and Spaniel are expected to arrive between Thursday evening and Friday.
People will be allowed on the ships from noon to 5 p.m. Friday to Sunday. The Bluenose II will remain in Pictou until Monday.
There are plenty of land-based activities and entertainment in downtown Pictou including 7 a.m. fireworks on the waterfront on Saturday, July 1, followed by a pancake breakfast at the Hector Heritage Quay.
A full list of entertainment and activities can be found at www.decostecentre.ca/tallships/.