Another first time visitor! The Bulgarian bulk freighter Perelik setting sail for Ravenna, Italy with a beautiful sunset lighting the skies behind her and a cold autumn wind at her bow. She took the harbor and turn very, very slow. Which was a double edged sword since I was on a hike and would have completely missed her had she gone a more normal speed, but a slight downer because she missed coming through the Canal under the most spectacular colors of the sunset by about 5 minutes. But can’t complain too much, was still out there to see that and it was still super pretty behind her when she did go through!
Built in 2022, Perelik was the 3rd of 8 ships built since 2021 for the Navibulgar Company capable of sailing on the Great Lakes, nearly doubling their previously existing fleet of 9 vessels and is continuing to expand. An additional 7 lake class ships are expected to enter service for them through the next 3 years. They mainly visit Duluth to load wheat to carry to Europe, and Perelik was no exception. Measuring 623ft with a maximum carrying capacity of 32,000 tons, she is similar in size to many River-type lakers, but can carry far more due to a much deeper hull. Since she’s only 2 years old and ocean shipping companies don’t often advertise their ship’s backstories, there’s not much to tell about her history yet. This is her first voyage to Duluth though and she certainly left some impressions! Certainly has a loud horn, blasted my ears out even through a pair of noise mufflers. Already a little banged up as well from the Welland/Seaway and the harsh ocean. Hopefully the first of many more to come!
Safe voyages and I hope everyone enjoys!
source