Lots of excitement around the Dory Shop these days as we prepare for the launch of the first newly-built wooden schooner here in maybe 40 years.

The 33-foot Kitty Cochran was built by schoonerman Dave Westergaard of Tusket for Halls Harbour resident Duncan Veasey and his family. The boat was brought to the Dory Shop for her finish work and launch, now slated for September 12.

Yesterday the crew of the Barque Picton Castle assisted in putting the vessel’s masts in place. The crew is also helping to rig her.

The schooner’s launching will take place this Saturday at about noon with suitable ceremony, noise, hilarity and libation. This is also the weekend of the Lunenburg Waterfront Seafood Festival so come early to cheer on teams at the International Dory Races.

Bring your friends. Come by land or sea. Come early, stay late, enjoy the working waterfront. And then we will see about building some more schooners and dories too.