Yet another problem appears to have hit Nova Scotia’s Bluenose II. Photos of the ship have shown very wide spaces between planks near the ship’s name such that passengers’ legs could be seen through the other side as they walked on to the deck.
25 million dollars were spent in overhauling the Bluenose II by the Government. The failure of a 3,000 kilogram steel rudder that had been inserted prompted the officials to attach hydraulic steering and a buoyancy device worth 700,000 dollars. This also failed to protect the ship which is a major tourist attraction in the province. The ship is a symbol of Nova Scotia’s prominence in fishing and shipbuilding. The original Bluenose has been acknowledged as the fastest schooner in the world for almost 20 years.
Government officials, on the other hand, are claiming that these issues are normals and occur naturally as the planks above deck dry and are not sealed together with caulking. This seals moisture and could damage the vessel by causing shortening of its lifespan.
However, not everyone agrees. Marine consultant Lou Bordeau claims that the seams are opening up because the ship is not being properly cared for and as the ship is sailing with the old, ineffective rudder. The gaps that have formed are even more surprising given that the hull was redone only about two years back.
Did you subscribe for our daily newsletter?
It’s Free! Click here to Subscribe!
Source: The Chronicle Herald
