By Joanne Rodgers, Bruce Peninsula Press
An annual spring ritual continues as over 60 boats were taken from their winter berth and moved into the water at the Lion’s Head Marina. On 17 May 2025, the Marina was a busy hive of activity as the crane operator, harbour staff, boat owners, their shipmates and other support staff worked in a concerted effort to lower the boats into the water.
While moving each boat takes a few minutes, it does require a series of steps and careful coordination and many hands to place the sling around each boat, and guide it to the dock, into the water, and detach the sling.
Starting a week earlier, boat owners and crew worked to prepare their boats for the start of the boating season. Many of the boat owners arriving from cities further south, after enjoying warmer temperatures at home, were shocked how cold it still was in Lion’s Head.
On Crane Day, It is also an annual tradition for locals and cottagers to come to the Marina and watch the activities. Many say they look forward to seeing the boats moved year after year. The activity also attracts curious visitors.
