Bless the Fleet calls for safe sailing

Sondi Ryersee says when it comes to sailing it’s better to be safe than sorry.

That’s why Ryersee, a commanding officer with the Canadian Coast Guard in Thunder Bay, had her ship the CCD Cape Chaillon blessed. Her ship was one of about 10 boats that received the blessing early Saturday morning in part of the Bless the Fleet ceremony held at Marina Park Pier 3.

It’s an age old tradition meant to make superstitious sailors a little less nervous and ensure a safe journey. Ryersee, who has sailed with the Canadian Coast Guard for 10 years, said superstitions still make sailors nervous when heading out into the water.

"Sailing is very superstitious," Ryersee said. "It was superstitious to have a woman on-board a boat. That was bad luck. We’re hoping that one can go by the wayside. We all want to make sure that our boats are safe even if it takes a little superstition to make sure we’re safe."
She said the ceremony also gave the Coast Guard a chance to let people know what kind of duties they perform on Lake Superior as well as give advice on safe boating.

Lake Superior’s chilly temperature, rough waters and large size could make it dangerous for anyone capsized. That’s why it’s important for boaters to practice due diligence when on the water, she said.

Besides the dangers there’s plenty to enjoy while out on the water.

"The best part of being on the water is the freedom, being quiet and seeing the beauty of nature," she said.

Mission to Seafarers Chaplain Ed Swayze blessed each boat as they came by his boat the Blue Angel. Swayze has participated in the ceremony for 10 years and said it has become a longstanding tradition in the community.

He said the blessing is another bit of insurance while on the water.

"Going to sea is dangerous," Swayze said. "People could drown and get hurt very easily. As much as we work on training to make sure we can deal with emergencies and making sure our equipment is all in good order, we still need God’s help to deal with the unexpected."