Vessel Instructions
 for the Blessing of the Fleet

Updated: 20 may 2011

These instructions may be updated at the beginning of June each year. 

In 2011 the Blessing of the Fleet takes place at the lookout on Pier 3 at Marina Park, approximately 48º 26’ 58” N   89º 12’ 41” W.

Service Pamphlet

The pamphlet will be available in the Marina Boater Services Building, the Wednesday prior to the Blessing.

Parade of Sail

GRIFFON RHIB will be in charge on the water and marshal vessels into the parade order. Vessels are to follow directions from GRIFFON RHIB. It will be on station by 1030.

By 1100, vessels should assemble in the area west of the Main Light House entrance, in the vicinity of the Red Starboard Hand Buoy E4. Canoes and kayaks should assemble inshore in the bay north of Pier 3.

The order for the parade of sail is:

Blessing of the Fleet in 2009 at the Wilson St. Spit

Featured Vessel
Harbourmaster vessel
Commercial vessels
Commercial fishing vessels
Government vessels
Recreational vessels under power
Recreational vessels under sail
Canoes and kayaks
NWO Sail Centre vessels
HMCS GRIFFON vessels

The MacGillivary Pipe Band will play a tattoo at 1030 and the service will start at approximately 1100. The lead vessel should pass the location at approximately 1115. The suggested vessel speed is 5 knots. Once vessels pass the location they will proceed south and disperse with regard for other vessels.

Vessels participating in the parade of sail are reminded to exercise proper seamanship to avoid collisions.

Cancellation due to Weather

The Blessing of the Fleet will be cancelled at 1030 in the event of winds being in excess of 20 knots or heavy rain and a notice will be broadcast on Channel 69.

Communications

Channel 69 will be used for communications between vessels and the Marina Lookout. The call signs are “Marina Lookout”, and for GRIFFON’s vessel “GRIFFON RHIB”. Between 1100 and 1115, the service of blessing will be broadcasted on Channel 71.

Rev’d Ed Swayze can be contacted on his cell phone 626-2571 for further information.