Opening Day of Shipping Season 2013 with update

Tomorrow, March 25, 2013 is the opening day of the 2013 shipping season.  It is a cause for celebration in Sault Ste. Marie where so much of our summer season is spent enjoying the sight of the big lake freighters moving up and down the St. Marys River.

It is also a hope that spring is on its way.  Although the snow banks are still piled high in town, the arrival of the ships in the river tell us that warm weather isn't far behind.

The shipping season will start at 12:01 am Monday morning so the celebration started on Sunday afternoon with opening ceremonies.  The Paul R. Tregurtha will be the first ship to pass through the Soo Locks.  She has been sitting there for many hours waiting to take this honor.

These pictures were taken by Linda Hoath, Executive Director of the Sault Visitor and Convention Bureau.  Linda was privileged to go on board the Tregurtha to officially welcome the PRT and her crew.

Linda Hoath sits in the pilot house and enjoys the view.

Welcome to the 2013 shipping season, fellow boat lovers.  I hope to keep you updated on the happenings, the beauty and the fun of boatwatching in the Soo!

Monday morning update:  The Paul R. Tregurtha, a 1,000 foot boat was the first vessel of the 2013 season to go through the Soo Locks.  The Locks opened at midnight and the Tregurtha was lined up and ready to enter.  An enthusiatic crowd greeting the PRT in the dark and cold.

The Paul R. Tregurtha in the Soo Locks. 

The boat watchers were very excited to watch.