With some modifications due to COVID-19, the Annual Blessing of the Fleet took place at the Marshfield Town Pier.
Father Mark Derrane from Our Lady of the Assumption Parish officiated the Blessing, an earlier version of this story incorrectly reported it was Reverend John Carmichael from the St. Ann’s Church by the Sea.
Harbormaster Michael DiMeo says this day is for the commercial fishermen and recreational boaters who make the harbor a vibrant place.
“They all hang out, have fun, and the next day they’re back to work. It’s a day of relaxation for them,” said DiMeo. “It’s also a time for them to honor previous fishermen who have passed away. Friends, family members who are not with us anymore.”
It was a reduced turnout, DiMeo says there were about 30 boats taking part in the parade of sail.
“It’s a good event for the town to come out and see what happens down here because a lot of people don’t understand the history and the culture of Green Harbor, the river, and the fishing industry in Marshfield,” said DiMeo. “Green Harbor is a very economic exclusive port, where we rank in the top five every year for tuna fish and American lobster. The harbor is very vibrant and economically, we bring in a lot of dollars.”
Normally, the fishermen raft up and hold BBQ’s after the parade, but with concerns due to COVID-19, those plans were canceled this year.
People lined the rocks off Green Harbor as the parade of sail floated by. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
The Native Sons heads out to sea after the blessing. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Recreational and commercial boaters took part in the blessing. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
While a smaller turnout than normal, dozens of boats took part in the Blessing of the Fleet. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
