The hull of the Oliver Hazard Perry makes its way under tow below the Newport Pell Bridge. (Photo by Tom Shevlin)
NARRAGANSETT BAY — On board the tug boat Hope, the hull of the Oliver Hazard Perry tied along side, we passed under the Newport Pell Bridge just before 9 a.m. this morning bound for Providence.
The trip to deliver the OHP to Providence where she is to undergo extensive steel work, took just over 2 1/2 hours under gray skies and light wind. When she arrived at the Promet Marine facility off Allens Avenue, about a dozen dock hands along with local media were there to greet her.
“That’s the shortest tall ship I’ve ever seen,” joked one crew member.
Indeed while the hull itself may not draw the same attention that a fully rigged tall ship would, its simple structure belies what proponents hope will be an auspicious future.
Since the Oliver Hazard Perry arrived in Newport at the end of October 2008, the Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island (OHPRI) organization (formerly Tall Ships RI) has generated significant financial support toward the completion of the vessel, which will be a working educational ship, privately run but belonging to and representing the people of Rhode Island. She will be based in Newport, and sail the world as an ambassador of sorts for the city and the state.
Once it is completed in 2011 – and at an estimated cost of $5.7 million – the Oliver Hazard Perry will measure in at 207 feet in length and boast a majestic three-masted, square rig that stands 13 stories tall.
Below, some photos of her journey.
Note: After several hours under tow, this post was updated at 9:09 p.m.
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Newport, RI
