Authentic Chinese junk ready to set sail

Montgomery Gisborne estimates he's put in over 600hours refinishing Hai Long, an authentic Chinese junk sailboat that he and his wife Daniela bought last fall.

"Every day justgoes to fix [the] boat. No holiday, no weekend, every morning [at]seven,gone," said Daniela of her husband.

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At their home in Montague, P.E.I., the boat has received several upgrades, including a new coat of paint and motors that Gisborne has installed so that he can maneuver the sailboat easily without necessarily have to depend on wind.

The HaiLongwill also have a special guest on board at all times.

The Gisborne'swere given a statue of the ancient Chinese sea goddess Ma Zhu from the local Chinese community.

"In China, she's just like Buddha, to save all the boat in the water," saidDaniela.

Now, the Gisborne's hope Ma Zhu will protect their 38 foot long, 12 foot wide boat.

Workers spent several hours Sunday morning gingerly getting the sailboat on a trailer, and transporting it down to Montague harbour.

'We both want people to know the Chinese history'

Now that Hai Long is in the water, it will be outfitted with red sails, and the Gisbornes will be sharing their precious boat and providing a charter service out ofCharlottetown beginning next week.

"We hope to make this vessel an iconic part of the Charlottetown waterfront," said Montgomery.

Passengers aboardthe Chinese junk will travel to Battery Point, and will learn a bit about Chinese naval history.

"The people who take this tour will learn about this ancient Chinese mariner during the Ming Dynasty who went on seven expeditions around the world," said Montgomery.

"We want the tourists and the residents alike to learn about this incredible Chinese naval history that most people have no knowledge of."

Those who take tours aboard the Chinese sailboat in the evening will be treated to an authentic Chinese meal.

For Danielawho emigratedfrom China a few years ago, it's a way to bring her culture to her new home.

"For me, I love this Island and we both want people to know the Chinese history," she said.

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