First ship contest launches for 2020 shipping season
Feb 28, 2020 07:33AM ● By EditorWatch the WDIO-TV Report here
From WDIO-TV - February 27, 2020
Another sign that spring is just around the corner. People can once again guess when they think the season’s first ocean-going vessel – or “saltie” – will pass under Duluth’s Aerial Lift Bridge this spring.
The grand prize winner of the contest will receive a Duluth getaway prize, that includes lodging, gift cards for dining and shopping, and passes to local attractions.
The Maria G was the first saltie of 2019 | Photo: Charles Howard SmithThe First Ship contest has been held since 1984, the 25th anniversary of the opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway. Entries must be placed before midnight on March 24, by going visiting visitduluth.com/firstship. Include the exact date and time of when you think the first saltie will pass under the Aerial Lift Bridge.
“So it was a way to get people excited about the upcoming shipping season… and we’ve continued to do it since then,” said Maarja Anderson Hewitt, spokesperson for Visit Duluth. “And people love those ships. Obviously the port here in Duluth is so important for our regional economy and industry. It also is great really for tourism because seeing that port in action is really neat to see, whether you’re two or 82.”
The Maria G arrived on April 15, 2019 | Photo: Matt RohladerFirst Ship Contest Statistics
- Last year: Maria G, the first ship to enter Duluth’s port, arrived at 6:48 a.m. on April 15, 2019.
- Earliest arrival: March 30, 2013 – Federal Hunter
- Latest arrival: May 7, 2014 -- Diana
So what is your best guess?
To see the original article and read related reporting, follow this link to the WCIO-TV website. https://www.wdio.com/duluth-minnesota-news/first-ship-contest-2020-shipping-season/5658654/?cat=1033...
