Work boats ease into harbour
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Organizers of the fifth-annual work boat gathering in Ganges Harbour anticipate this weekend’s event will be the best one yet.
Coastal history enthusiasts will get a chance to step aboard some vintage West Coast work boats, chat with vessel owners, and maybe pick up some inspiration of their own when vessels open their hatches to the public at a Saturday event between 1 and 3:30 p.m.
A sailpast and departure ceremony will be visible from the shoreline Sunday at 11 a.m.
Onlookers can get a peek at the outside of the vessels during regular dock hours from Sept. 25 to 27.
Martin Milner, Salt Spring-based coordinator of the rendezvous and owner of his own classic vessel, expects 55 boats to arrive at the Kanaka Dock for this year’s event.
Boats from the Gulf Islands will be joined by others from northern Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast and Washington State.
Milner said the popularity of workboats, be they active, retired or renovated, has risen steadily over the past several years.
“Living on the coast, it’s something that’s natural,” Milner said.
Most of the vessels are former fishing vessels that have been converted into comfortable living spaces.
Others are works in progress.
Milner said many ship owners stop by Salt Spring Island on their way home after a sailing season that’s seen them travel up the coast.
The fall rendezvous is hosted by the West Coast Work Boat Association and the Salt Spring Island Harbour Authority.
Admission to the event is free of charge.
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