The Bluenose II has sailed out of Arichat after a visit that gave residents and visitors the opportunity to step aboard one of Nova Scotia’s most recognizable vessels.
The iconic schooner was in the community from August 15th through August 17th. During its stay, the general public was invited aboard to tour the deck and get a closer look at the vessel while meeting members of its crew.
The visit was part of the Bluenose II’s 2026 sailing schedule, which takes Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador to communities throughout the province. Originally, the vessel was slated to depart Arichat on August 18th, but the Bluenose left a day earlier.
The opportunity to walk the deck offered visitors a chance to experience the ship beyond simply seeing it from shore. According to the Bluenose II website, open decks are designed to give people an opportunity to walk aboard the vessel and talk with members of the crew. There is no cost to visit during an open-deck event and reservations are not required.
The Bluenose II serves as Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador, helping promote the history and legacy of the original Bluenose, as well as the province’s maritime heritage. The original Bluenose was launched in Lunenburg in 1921 and became an undefeated racing champion and Canadian icon. Bluenose II was launched in 1963 and has continued that legacy as a sailing ambassador.
What’s next for the Bluenose II?
Following its departure from Arichat, the schooner is scheduled to head to Sheet Harbour, where it is expected to be at anchor on August 19th.
The next scheduled port is Lunenburg, with public harbour cruises planned for August 22nd and 23rd. The vessel is then scheduled to spend several days in its home port.
The remainder of the summer schedule includes stops in Shelburne, Clark’s Harbour and Yarmouth before the Bluenose II returns to Lunenburg.
View the official Bluenose II 2026 schedule
