The Blessing Of Maleo And The Fleet
Maleo – 1964 Rice Trawler, Built here in Reedville. This is her original name and the first one built. George Whitholz design. Phot is through the window on a 1968 Rice Trawler, possibly one of the last.
There are few times in life where things like this spontaneously happen. Of course a massive trip to that place and time are part of it. But sometimes there is some magic involved. The goodness in the world all comes together to make it just so. Such was the case yesterday. As it turns out, unknown to Peter and Anne, yesterday was the annual blessing of the fleet here. The weather was perfect, and all of Reedville was there to get the fishing season started. Including all of Maleo’s extended family. It’s an honor to be a small part of all this. And I might add, the entire 100% reason we all do this.
Maleo was part of the parade
GLENNA FAYE – Butler Built 1948
Skipjack Claude Summers
SWEET PEA
Relaxing
ALLIZ Tiffany Yachts, And a cool Glaspar
Mary Trew, Charlie Biddlecomb
Wonderul lines
Past the stack
Back at the dock, all the Rice family members came over to see her.
32 feet of history
This is a Loop boat and live aboard.
She has been updated with all the good stuff
I lust for that 12V panel
Aft is perfect
Heater
Peter and Carl Rice, Carl is a retired pilot for the fish factory and his father was the Rice that had the Railway, so he had some stories and knew about Maleo.
The canopy is a total must for this trip
The sink faucet is pure perfection
6,000 miles!
It has an very open feel, you can seat 6 at the table. We had lunch on board and it was perfect.
Around 8:30 PM, all is good in the world
Wonderful story! All the boats are amazing, but Maleo is truly special. I love the cabin interior and the live aboard feeling. I wish them well in their journey!
That was a special day! I’m glad you were able to enjoy it! Thanks for the photos and history!
Anne and Peters timing was perfect!!
It is amazing to see the beam difference between Maleo and Sweet Pea.
Here is a little perspective that a friend shared with me. A boat doing 7 MPH for 6000 miles is equivalent to a car of motorcycle trip of 30,000 miles averaging 35 MPH. It’s no wonder most people take a year to do The Loop.
Touchstones of the past and history shared.
Can’t think of a better way to spend the day.
Many beautiful boats – thanks for the photos! Wishing Maleo & her crew a safe, fun journey.
Looks like quite a celebration/Blessing. Great pictures, and a beautiful day. I’m glad you enjoyed it.