The Blessing of the Fleet began as an old world Sicilian custom emphasizing faith and perseverance - qualities that have long fueled those who go to sea to earn their living. Since the 1950’s Newport’s Blessing of the Fleet has continued the custom of asking for prayers for protection at sea, bountiful catches, and peace of mind for the families at home. Participating ministers are members of the local churches.
The Blessing is open to any and all who wish to ask blessings on their fishing vessel, charter vessel, pleasure craft, or research vessel. The parade will get underway at 12:45 PM, from the area near the Port’s international terminal. The USCG Search & Rescue Helicopter (if available) and the motor lifeboats of Station Yaquina Bay signal the start of the parade. All vessels will follow the lead vessel of their fishery, or category, from the international terminal heading West, turning just in front of the bridge before heading East to pass in front of the motor lifeboat Victory. (Map) Onboard the Victory, local ministers will ask blessings as each vessel passes in front of them. The broadcast can be heard over KNPT 1310 AM beginning at 1:05 PM.
Anyone wishing to participate can pick up a vessel registration form at Schiewe Marine or Englund Marine Supply stores on Newport’s bayfront. All registrations need to be returned to Schiewe’s or Englund’s by 11:00 AM, the morning of. This vessel/history information will be shared on-air.
The third Saturday in March, is chosen because it falls at a time when many Newport fishermen are in port gearing up-coming seasons; Chinook salmon or the Oregon pink shrimp season. Dungeness crab season continues through August, although many of the crabbers will have put away their gear and will be readying for other fisheries.
The challenging Survival Suit Races get underway at 9:30 AM at the Newport Tradewinds dock below Mo's Annex. The actual blessing takes place at 1:00 PM on Yaquina Bay.
The day’s events also include a Memorial Service at the Fishermen’s Memorial Sanctuary at Yaquina Bay State Park. This service is meant to offer support and encouragement to the families and community while remembering Lincoln County fishermen lost at sea. Participants are encouraged to bring a flower to add to a communal bouquet in remembrance of their friend or loved one.
For more information about any of the days events previously mentioned, please
Contact Maria Rock at 541-574-5555 or by email at the address below. |
