Bluenose II project has a 'positive story,' says Geoff MacLellan

The cabinet minister now responsible for the project to rebuild the Bluenose II visited the $20-million schooner on Wednesday and has now seen for himself what that kind of money buys.

Geoff MacLellan, the Minister of Transportation and Intrastructure Renewal, was recently made responsible for the Bluenose II file after a scathing report from Nova Scotia's auditor general.

"For me, this was about getting here, seeing the people, seeing the community and feeling the Bluenose for myself," MacLellan said after his tour.

The modernization of the vessel includes new watertight doors, state-of-the-art engines and a new hydraulic-assisted wheel. The wheel is needed because the traditional design simply couldn't handle the new steel rudder.

The Bluenose II is tied up at a wharf adjacent to the Fisheries Museum on Lunenburg harbour.

Wayne Walters, the director of operations for the Lunenburg Marine Museum Society, led the minister on a bow to stern, above and below, tour of the vessel.

MacLellan felt it was important to personally inspect the vessel.

"I wanted to walk the ship, to see the people, to talk to those who were involved the stakeholders who will continue to ensure that the Bluenose legacy lives on," he said.

It's clear the minister is keen to wrap up the project, which is years behind schedule and millions of dollars over budget.

"This is a project that is ready to be completed," said MacLellan.

"When she's sailing, it will certainly be a tremendous draw, not only for Nova Scotians, but for tourists across the world."

Walters shared that sentiment.

"We can't wait to get her back from the province, back into operation. Doing what she does best and that's being an ambassador for Nova Scotia," he said.

The Lunenburg Marine Museum Society will operate the Bluenose II once the schooner is deemed ready to sail again.

'There is a positive story for us here'

The province is also keen to move along from the squabbles and the scandal that has plagued rebuilding the vessel.

"There is a positive story for us here, said MacLellan.

"We want to listen to what the [auditor general] said, follow his recommendations and make sure we get the project right from here on in."

Despite the optimism, the schooner still has to undergo sea trials before it can sail again. As well, there are millions of dollars in claims the province is contesting.