Mariners to open season with blessing

Asd mariners unfurl for the summer boating season, Bunbury Yacht Club members will be among the many to wish them good luck during the annual Blessing of the Fleet.

Boats will launch into the season with a parade on Bunbury's waterways, followed by a blessing from reverend Richard Scallan, on November 14.

Now in its third year, club commodore Noel Seymour said the blessing had grown in popularity each year.

He said he hoped the event could be used to promote an upgrade of facilities for the boating community in Bunbury.

"We're asking the public to come out on the day as a sign of support for the Bunbury waterfront vision and Casuarina Harbour upgrades," Mr Seymour said.

"Enhancing the facilities is one of the main focuses, along with the safety side and wishing our boats and sailors good luck."

About 6500 boats are registered in Greater Bunbury and Mr Seymour said the club was hoping for a big turnout for the blessing.

This year's event will include a water-ski display at Ski Beach, setting it apart from previous years, according to the organisers.

Mr Seymour said people who did not have boats could still get involved by getting to vantage points at places like the Dome Cafe, Mash Brewery and Koombana Bay.

The boats will sail from the Leschenault Inlet to the Dolphin Discovery Centre, around tug boats - operated by Bunbury Port Authority for the event - and finish the parade at Ski Beach.

Volunteer group Bunbury Sea Rescue will also be involved in the event, along with the Department of Transport and Bunbury Sailing Club.