Whangarei Harbour is used by Mariners from all over the world to overwinter, shelter from hurricanes and have maintenance done. A group of them formed
The Black Ball Yacht Club and they organize the Maritime Festival. This is its second year but the first time we have attended.
Below one of several small steam boats is sailing past with passengers
An excellent group singing sea shanties
Some of the crowds
There were a lot of dogs all on leads and very well behaved
A former Auckland Pilot boat
Some more small steam ships
Nice to see a whole range of different craft there
ReplyDeleteYes, it was really interesting. Hope you are not too battered from your "trip".
DeleteOut walking today..taking it easy, wearing ankle boots, foraging a few sweeter apples.
DeleteDiscovering which other bits of my anatomy are a little sore!!
What a grand event, the pilot boat, I wonder how many years ago it was in use, my cousin was a chief tug master for the Ports of Auckland years ago. And a piper. Memories for me and Scotland, where my Mum was born.
ReplyDeleteShe was called the Akarana and I have just sent you a couple of comments I found when I googled her. She was a pilot vessel from 1961 to 1994. I love hearing the bagpipes.
DeleteNo doubt it was a very popular event, makes me want to live in Northland again.
ReplyDeleteYes, it was great and on again today.
DeleteI would love to own a small steam boat, and I'd also love to own that beautiful white two-master ketch; although I wouldn't have a clue how to sail it.
ReplyDeleteThere were a lot of lovely boats. A good friend of ours used to have an old lifeboat that he converted to steam and Max used to work on it and go out with him.
DeleteLooks fun, we are very close to the coast, so there are sailing clubs and boats everywhere, including a posh marina with some nice larger boats.
ReplyDeleteWe both enjoyed it.
DeleteWhat a fascinating event to attend. I'm glad the weather was nice for you :)
ReplyDeleteYes, it was a bit cloudy but a nice day overall.
DeleteWhat a wonderful idea. So much to see
ReplyDeleteLots to see and lots of entertainment.
Delete