The scheduled launch of the Bluenose II has been delayed. Premier Darrell Dexter confirmed today the province's sailing ambassador isn't expected to return to the water until some time toward the end of the year.Dexter says the plan was to have the schooner back in the water in time for a premiers meeting in Halifax later this month. However, the premier says that won't happen because the schooner requires more work at the Lunenburg shipyard. Despite the delay, Dexter says the refit is still attracting a lot of attention and he isn't worried about a loss of tourists.
The vessel is undergoing a $17-million restoration. The premier says there's a delay because it's a one-of-a-kind project.