Captain's Log

The Victoria Classic Boat Festival is an annual event that showcases classic boats and highlights traditional maritime craftsmanship. Held on the docks where The Duen is moored, the event offers participants a chance to display restored wooden sailboats and vintage powerboats, while engaging with other boat enthusiasts. Owners share stories of their restoration work, creating a space for the exchange of knowledge and appreciation for classic boat design.

This year was particularly excellent as there were two recently restored sail boats that have become rather famous in recent years. One is the Dorothy, a 30-foot sailboat built between 1896 and 1897 by John J. Robinson. The Maritime Museum of B.C. says Dorothy is considered the oldest sailing yacht in the Pacific Northwest. It went through nearly a dozen owners before being donated to the Victoria-based museum in 1995. After a decade of restoration work, Dorothy was launched last year, making it the oldest B.C.-built registered sailboat in use. It's gorgeous.

Another star of the show was Tally Ho, a 1910 pilot cutter from the UK. A well documented restoration has taken place over the last 6 years spearheaded by the determined Leo Goolden with a ever-changing cast of volunteers and skilled artisans. Through sponsorship and donations, Leo financed the project and was an incredible leader for his team. The result is a master piece of historic restoration. It was very cool to see Leo around the docks and see the cumulation of thousands of hours of work sailing in the afternoon sun.

The festival also features a boat parade and a sailing "race", where these vessels navigate the water for spectators gathered along the waterfront. The event draws both boating aficionados and families, providing an opportunity for all ages to appreciate the history and artistry of classic boats. We cruised out to watch the start and give our regards to the other wooden sailing vessels. What a day!