THUNDER BAY — Just over a year after being towed to the Lakehead from Kingston, the former Canadian Coast Guard icebreaker Alexander Henry will open for public tours on July 18.
The date is significant, as it will mark the anniversary of her launching at the Port Arthur Shipbuilding Company in 1958.
Charlie Brown, spokesperson for the volunteer group Lakehead Transportation Museum Society, says July 18 will be "60 years, to the day, that she went into the water."
The LTMS had hoped to have the ship ready for tours by the middle of June, and to take advantage of the influx of people to the waterfront for Canada Day celebrations.
Brown said there was an unanticipated delay, however, in cabling the Alexander Henry to keep it secure after she was moved about 20 metres farther along the cruise ship dock at the former Pool 6 elevator site.
Before visitors can board the ship for tours, she needs an inspection for insurance purposes, and must undergo a final electrical inspection.
Both are scheduled for next week.
Brown said the LTMS is still inviting people to come down to the dock on Canada Day
"We will open the gate. We will have staff and board members down here. We're going to dress the entire ship, she will be full of flags, and people will be able to talk to us, take pictures and hopefully come back on July 18 for the official opening and re-dedication."
When shipboard tours begin, the admission charge will be $9.00 for adults, and $7.00 for seniors and children. Family and group rates will also be available.
