The City of Gloucester is proud to announce the start-up of a launch service in its beautiful harbor. The launch is a first-class, 26-foot, 24-passenger, solid fiberglass “Duffy” built by Atlantic Boat Company. “This launch service will provide boaters a convenient gateway to Gloucester’s shops, museums, the Rocky Neck and the Gloucester Harbortown Cultural Districts, restaurants and shore-side amenities,” said Mayor Carolyn A Kirk.
Gloucester Welcomes Cruising Boaters
The launch will provide cruising boaters with a safe option for bringing bulky loads to and from shore – e.g., laundry to the laundromat, groceries, or a mechanical part that was repaired in one of Gloucester’s marine repair shops. As a cruiser’s port-of-call, Gloucester also has showers available for $2 at the YMCA for those who really want more than a sailor’s shower. We offer pump-out service to your vessel. Ice and water can be purchased at the local icehouse. Gloucester has always been the best port on the North Shore for servicing all types of vessels, and now with the launch service, cruising boaters have a safe, dry and convenient option for getting ashore.
Day Boaters Can Enjoy Gloucester
Day boaters will now be able to come to Gloucester and have access to downtown using the launch. Boaters will be able to pick up available City guest moorings or drop anchor in the large Federal anchorage conveniently located in the center of the inner harbor, under the watchful eye of the Harbormaster’s staff. From these locations, boaters will be able to hail the launch on VHF channel 72 or call 978-942-0660 for a lift to one of Gloucester Harbor’s three public floats or the Historic Art Colony at Rocky Neck.
From these landing points boaters can enjoy:
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A meal in one of our many excellent restaurants
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A relaxing cup of coffee or tea in the coffee and tea houses
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Shopping in the many fine shops
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A visit to the museums
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A visit to one of our salons and spas
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A stroll along the historic and picturesque Harbor Walk
City Mooring Holders
The launch service will also be provided for Gloucester’s mooring holders that are within its service area. The ability to get to and from your vessel conveniently will enhance the enjoyment of the day.
Contact: Jim Caulkett, Harbormaster
978-282-3012
Ceremonial Poem read By Tony Gross At Launch
TO THE SEA…TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US…TO the Gloucesterman
For thousands of years, we have gone to sea. We have crafted vessels to carry us and we have called them by name. This boat will nurture and care for us through perilous seas, and so we affectionately call her “she.” To them we ask to celebrate the Gloucesterman.
TO THE SEA…TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US…TO the Gloucesterman
The moods of the sea are many, from tranquil to violent. We ask that this boat be given the strength to carry on. The keel is strong and she keeps out the pressures of the sea.
TO THE SEA…TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US…TO the Gloucesterman
Today we come to name this lady and send her to sea to be cared for, and to care for the Suffern Crew. We ask the sailors of old and the mood of God that is the sea to accept this name, to help her through her passages, and allow her to return with her crew safely.
TO THE SEA…TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US…TO the Gloucesterman
We now pour champagne over the bow to appease King Neptune, and lay a branch of green leaves on the deck to ensure safe returns.
TO THE SEA…TO THE SAILORS BEFORE US…TO the Gloucesterman
Filed under: gloucester Tagged: Ceremonial Poem, Launch, Press Release, Tony Gross
