Algoma Central Corporation Christens first completely new Canadian Flag dry-bulk carrier in over 25 years

Port Colborne, Ontario (August 25, 2010) —The MV Algoma Mariner — the first completely new Canadian flag dry-bulk carrier to be brought into service on the Great Lakes in over 25 years — was today christened in a special ceremony in Port Colborne, Ontario.

The Canadian-flag ship, which is owned by Algoma Central Corporation, has been registered in the city of Port Colborne and resident Lisa Badawey was selected as the official sponsor of the vessel.

A crowd of local dignitaries and members of the marine industry watched as Mrs. Lisa Badawey, who is the wife of the city’s Mayor, Vance Badawey, imparted a traditional blessing and pressed the button to lower a champagne bottle to break against the bow of the vessel. A banner was then lowered to officially reveal the name of the vessel on the side of the ship.

As part of the customary proceedings, Father David Mulholland from The Mission to Seafarers in Toronto offered prayers and other words of inspiration and wisdom to the 19-person Canadian crew.

View the entire Algoma Mariner Christening Press Release

View Mayor Vance Badawey's Speaking Notes on the Algoma Mariner Christening