MADONNA "LAUNCH" - 28.0

Steve Propsom photo of dry dock submergence.

Detroit Harbor, Washington Island -

What can be termed the "launch" of the new ferry Madonna took place in the floating dry dock at the Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding facility, just before 10:00 a.m. today.   Photos sent by Steve Propsom showed water beginning to flood the dock, then rising up the sides of the hull prior to floating.

First wetting of the hull.  (Steve Propsom)

Selvick Towing tug awaits the hull to float free from blocks before towing the vessel pier side in slip #9, just south of the main Ship Building office building.  Work will continue as soon as the vessel is moored and a gangway for workers set in place.    -  Dick Purinton

Preparations were made late Thursday to clear the dry dock floor
of equipment, making the vessel ready for entering the water early
Friday.   Last-minute paint touch-ups were still ongoing, at left.
(Rich Ellefson photo)