letter to the editor

The Draken leaves after pleasant visit

Tue, 07/17/2018 - 11:30am

Dear Editor:

I would like to thank the people who helped to make the Draken Harald Harfagre visit successful.

When I needed a permit for the Whale Park and town dock, Nick Upham, Tom Woodin, and Geoff Smith lent assistance. The viking contract called for rooms for the captain and land support staff, a Highland Park Whiskey tasting, and venue for the captain's lecture and Ramsey Lafayette came through in the clutch. Friends of Harbor Theater worked with us to host the viewing of the fascinating documentary and Q&A period. It was special to have the Boothbay Region Community Band on hand for the important arrival ceremony!

When the Draken marketing team sent me materials for advertising and they had dates and times wrong, Lori Bailey stepped in to quickly change the digital files and Leisha MacDougall gave us lightning turnaround service on printed posters. With Nick Upham on vacation several folks ignored the reserved signs on the south side of the town dock. Thank you to officers Duncan, Brown and chief Hasch for moving the two boats to clear the span. The ship would not have made it to the dock if not for the assistance of captains Pete and Nick Ripley who nicely asked the two vessels sitting on moorings to move which were blocking the Draken's entrance to dock. A big shout out to the YMCA for opening up the filed house so a crew of 25 could have a place to sleep!

The captain and expedition leader were very pleased with their visit. Hundreds of ticket holders for deck tours and casual observers who bought Draken souvenirs, led them to make this comment, “We love Boothbay Harbor and obviously the people love us. We will be in touch with you about our summer 2019 plans.”

The town was full during their stay so I am confident that it was a win, win visit.

Thank you again for the support!

Mark Gimbel