In addition to the 24-foot sailboat Mackinaw traditionally docked at the Grand Portage National Monument during Rendezvous Days August 12-14, the tall ship Mist of Avalon will make a visit to Grand Portage. The 19th century schooner is visiting as part of the National Park Service’s Centennial Celebration.
As part of the National Park Service’s centennial celebration, the tall ship The Mist of Avalon will be in port at Grand Portage National Monument during the 2016 Rendezvous Days weekend, Aug. 12-14.
The Mist of Avalon will arrive in port on Friday afternoon.
Visitors who want a free tour of the ship can do so on a first-come, first-serve basis all day on Saturday. Shuttles will be provided by the Grand Marais – Isle Royale Transportation Line’s Sea Hunter throughout the day. Visitors must wear tennis shoes or dock shoes for the tour.
“This may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see a ship that has appeared in numerous feature films and documentaries,” said Linda Kratt, executive director of Visit Cook County. “Seeing a 19th century Grand Banks schooner on the water will transport visitors back in time.”
The Mist of Avalon was originally built in 1967, but was not transformed into its current state as a Gaff Schooner until 1992. Doug Prothru is the current captain in charge of the 100-foot-long, 85-foot-high ship.
As always, another ship, the Mackinaw will be docked outside of the monument for the weekend as well. The Mackinaw is a 24-foot sailboat that has been restored and is owned by Grand Portage National Monument. The event will also feature a variety of birchbark canoes.
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