Port Tour
Tour of Thunder Maritime businesses and organizations

Blessing of the Fleet

cancelled for
2023

visit Photo Gallery to view 2018 pictures

Pier 3 - the Royal Canadian Navy Pier
Prince Arthur’s Landing Marina

Boaters and vessels are invited to take part and 
spectators are invited to participate on Pier 3.

A service pamphlet will be available in the Boater Services Building 
in the week prior to the Blessing of the Fleet.

Limited vehicle parking is available on Pier 3, 
more parking is available in the north end of park, Sister Cities parking lot.

Please bring your lawn chair.

If you have questions regarding the Blessing of the Fleet, please call (807) 344-8241.

CBC Interview on Superior Morning 
June 20, 2018 Canon Ed

 TBT NewsWatch: Blessing of the Fleet Article

click here for
Vessel Instructions

If a decision to cancel the Blessing of the Fleet is made the day before the event due to the weather forecast, a notice will be posted on www.missiontoseafarers.ca/thunderbay.

On the day of the Blessing of the Fleet, in the event of winds being in excess of 20 knots (37 km/hr), heavy rain or lightning it will be be cancelled at 1015.

Updated: July 6, 2022

Program

1030   The Macgillivary Pipe Band performs a tattoo.

1100   A short service consisting of greetings from the Mayor's representative, scripture reading, prayers, a memorial to those who died at sea, and a blessing over the water used to bless the vessels.

1115   (approximately) Parade of Vessels: Vessels are blessed as they pass the Lookout by sprinkling the vessel with water. 
Go to Vessel Instructions for further information. 

In the Blessing of the Fleet we ask God to give seafarers help to deal with dangers: good training; a clear mind, physical strength and courage; people who can be counted on; a well maintained vessel; and favorable weather. Drawing upon spirituality gives people resilience when dealing with life’s challenges. 

The blessing of ships is an ancient custom and religions all have their own ceremonies and customs. The Christian tradition is associated with blessings at the laying of the keel, commissioning of the ship, and the start of a fishing season. Going to sea is a dangerous activity and the protection of God is sought.

The Blessing provides an opportunity to bring the different marine communities together (Royal Canadian Navy, Coast Guard, government, commercial and recreational) and highlights the Port as an important economic activity for the city and the waterfront as a major focal point for the city. It  helps make people aware of the work of the Mission to Seafarers. The Mission is for all seafarers, and we focus our efforts on assisting foreign seafarers from ocean-going vessels.

Mission to Seafarers: Port of Thunder Bay  Home Page