‘Zirondel’ the new addition to SPA’s maritime assets was officially inaugurated with the age-old tradition of christening and blessing a vessel before it sets sail.
The short ceremony, which took place on Friday 28 March 2025 on the Mahe Quay earlier in the morning, was steeped in maritime tradition and officiated by Father Eric Leon who delivered prayers and observed a moment of silence with those present before blessing the exterior and interior of the vessel with holy water.
Another rite of passage was the breaking of a champagne bottle against the hull of the boat. Cheers erupted from the crowd, the tug fleet sounded their horns symbolising both a hopeful beginning and fruitful future service for the new vessel.
Present at the christening ceremony was the Chairman of the SPA board Mr Brian Loveday accompanied by board members Mrs Audrey Francis and Captain Phillip Hoareau. Also present were the Chief Executive of SPA Mr Sony Payet, Deputy CEO Ms Phillippa Samson, Harbour Master Captain Jean Paul Fanchette, management members alongside other SPA staff who wanted to witness the momentous event.
Those present were fortunate to take a short tour in the approach channel onboard ‘Zirondel’ as she demonstrated her capacity and force. The new pilot boat was welcomed into Port Victoria in the late afternoon of 18th March and she is a state-of-the-art vessel that will be instrumental in SPA’s endeavours at sea.
