This is an amazing documentary from the 80s that shows the William Clay Ford, one of the ships that went out to look for the Edmund Fitzgerald, a story many people don’t know regarding the Clay Ford. Along with the Arthur M. Anderson, you’ll get to see Captain Erickson on his last voyage with this beautiful ship. You’ll also witness a Thanksgiving meal and so many other cool behind-the-scenes moments. ua-cam.com/video/9MsEQwqRtPo/v-deo.htmlsi=03FB-9udgxHwE6B2
Right before watching the video, I was watching a documentary on Gordon Lightfoot, who’s Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald began my interest in the Great Lakes. Like you said the Sykes really does remind me of The Fitz. Beautiful ship
This is an amazing documentary from the 80s that shows the William Clay Ford, one of the ships that went out to look for the Edmund Fitzgerald, a story many people don’t know. Along with the Arthur M. Anderson, you’ll get to see Captain Erickson on his last voyage with this beautiful ship. You’ll also witness a Thanksgiving meal and so many other cool behind-the-scenes moments. ua-cam.com/video/9MsEQwqRtPo/v-deo.htmlsi=03FB-9udgxHwE6B2
Brian, I have watched that video a couple dozen times. It never gets old. It is so real, even though it’s not high definition you really get a sense of old-school shipping behind the scenes. It’s awesome. You even see the ship arrive under the Duluth bridge at one point.
That's my first time to see this beautiful lady. The Old School Lakers are my favorites. Have a good one Mike, take care and God Bless ya Brother!!!🙏❤😊
What a fabulous ship. Such beautiful graceful lines. The Sykes was the last ship to depart from Escanaba, MI back in 2017. She left with the very last pieces of ore from the Empire mine. Cleaned them out. The ship was less than 1/2 full. 150 years after the dock was built. The end of an era. Mike, I really really liked your graphic of the harbor from the WDIO cam. It's neat how you pointed out paths carved out in the ice. Very creative. Burr
It’s always a treat when I see a notification from you of a ship video to watch! I enjoyed the looks of this vessel (as well as its grace coming through the canal); I am glad that it is still a working ship even though it is one of the older ones. I also appreciated the close up of the control house for the bridge. I have a feeling that the ships passing under is a sight that would never grow old or tiresome for the lift bridge operators. I rather envy them! :)
@ I love lighthouses. I bought one several years ago. It was over $1000 but it’s about 5‘3“ somewhere along in there and then I have a rock base that I bought from the same people that sits on and it actually works. I think I bought it from a place called the Lighthouse Man. They make really cool houses.
My dad use to do the emergency generator testing for the coast guard inspection on the Sykes, Ryerson and the Block in Sturgeon Bay every year right on or near my birthday, I got to visit those 3 often as a kid for many years.
What a great story! You have some wonderful memories of those ships. I’ll tell you this, I have a ton of respect for your dad for putting that uniform on. Big-time respect for that guy.
@@vibewithmike Well, my dad was a marine but at this stage he was a GM diesel man, he was there at the request of Inland steel (owners of these 3 at the time) to run these units for the inspection so there would be no problems.
Thank you for the wonderful compliment. There’s nothing like looking at an old-school ship like this. We were lucky to capture it on a nice day with ice in the water. It was really cool.
The Wilfred Sykes is one of the most interesting and historic ships on the Great Lakes. Built in 1949, it was the first freighter constructed on the Great Lakes after World War II and set a new standard for ship design. At the time, it was the largest and most modern freighter on the lakes, earning the nickname “Queen of the Lakes.” Many people do not know that the Wilfred Sykes was originally painted gray and nicknamed the “Gray Ghost.” Years later, this nickname was passed to the Paul R. Tregurtha, the largest ship on the Great Lakes today, but the original “Gray Ghost” was the Sykes. The Sykes was a pioneer in shipbuilding, being one of the first freighters to feature a completely welded hull, which made it stronger and more durable than older riveted ships. It was also one of the most efficient freighters of its time, thanks to its powerful engines and innovative design. Its maiden voyage carried iron ore from Escanaba, Michigan, to Indiana Harbor, and it operated on this route for many years. Despite being over 70 years old, the Wilfred Sykes is still in service today, making it a symbol of resilience and craftsmanship on the Great Lakes.
Another great video. What a beautiful ship. I will look at your videos as I'm kind of new. I want to see them pull up to the different docks and load or unload. Not the whole thing but the tying up and a tour of where the docks are.
Thanks, I hope you enjoy the channel! I plan on doing more of the loading and unloading videos in the future. ABC News did a few stories about the Boat Friends. Make sure to watch the video in each article. News story #1 www.wdio.com/front-page/top-stories/vibe-with-mike-reaches-international-shipwatching-community/ News story #2 www.wdio.com/lift-online/online-shipping-videos-compel-visits-to-duluth/
Gorgeous ship! Love the old school look. I did not think there would be so much ice (red arrow) with so much traffic. Surprising. Thanks for the great video Mike.
@ Agreed. I live closer to Lake Michigan now. Not nearly as much shipping action, and I’m not big on driving 200 miles round trip to get to MQT, so I especially appreciate your videos. You bring my favorite freighters to me.
Seasons Greetings ! Every body ! Another Awsom video by Mike ! From the ships lined up in the lake and the season winding down Every body is maxing out their runs till it is over ! Shore ice starting to form Evry body stay warm and Have a great day !
This was an awesome day of ship watching in Duluth!! Magical! All day!!! Happy to have been there in person! Happy New Year Mike and fellow boat friends!!
@vibewithmike Your welcome Mike. -20 is -5c, isn't that cold except for the wind makes it colder. Temperature starting to drop here. 4 minutes to 8pm here in Fredericton
My two favorite ships are the Arthur M. Anderson and the Wilfred Sykes. Beautiful old school ships. They both played a role searching for survivors of the Edmund Fitzgerald in November 1975. Thank you for this excellent video, Mike.
I'm enjoying these winter/cold weather videos exceedingly. I don't know a lot about the Lakers but this is my first time seeing the Sykes, what a retro classic. FWIW: I live in the warm and sunny Tucson, Arizona area. I don't even want to go outside when it's less than 60 degrees F. It's interesting to see how many boat friends go out to watch the boats on your frigid days.
I heard that you kind of had a heat wave the last week touching almost 80°. Tucson is a beautiful city. I love the mountains there. It’s a very easy airport to fly to as well from Minnesota. Nonstop and the rental car terminal is right in the airport.
Thanks Mike, being of the same time as the EFG makes it even more special. Hope you had a great Christmas, God Bless you and yours in the New Year..!!!!!
Darth, I hope you have a fantastic evening. I hope your Christmas was wonderful. I’m already looking forward to the new year. We’ll get some good ships
I,live in Detroit, Michigan and I am a new Subscriber to Your Channel. Back in the Day and I remember when the Wilfred Sykes used to sail for Inland Steel Company, and I remember when the Joseph L.Block, and the Edward L.Ryerson, which is in Long Term Layup in Duluth. I,used to take trips to Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. I've, took a of Pictures of the Old School Freighters and I still have them to remember them, after when they get scrapped. I,also remember when the Stewart J.Cort was launched in 1972,and I was in Junior High School at the time when the Stewart J.Cort was sailing Upbound on the Detroit River.
Thanks for subscribing! It's great to have you aboard and I'm glad you appreciate our Great Lakes history. ABC News did a few stories about the Boat Friends. Make sure to watch the video in each article. News story #1 www.wdio.com/front-page/top-stories/vibe-with-mike-reaches-international-shipwatching-community/ News story #2 www.wdio.com/lift-online/online-shipping-videos-compel-visits-to-duluth/
I know a lot of these older ships are gonna have limited time on the Great Lakes. I want to enjoy this ship and others. Every chance I get. I hope you’re having a great Thursday.
Duluth and Hawaii might seem worlds apart, but they are connected through shipping in ways many people may not realize. Duluth, as the westernmost port on the Great Lakes, plays a vital role in the movement of goods from the heart of North America to the rest of the world. Much of the cargo shipped from Duluth, such as grain and taconite, begins its journey here before heading through the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Atlantic Ocean. From there, it can reach destinations across the globe, including ports in Hawaii. While Duluth may not ship directly to Hawaii, the goods transported from its port often make their way there as part of larger global supply chains. One of the key links between Duluth and Hawaii is through steel and construction materials, which can originate in the Midwest. Taconite, a type of iron ore, is often shipped from Duluth to be processed into steel that is later used in construction projects, including some in Hawaii. Additionally, agricultural products like grain shipped from Duluth are used worldwide, including in regions like Hawaii that rely heavily on imported goods. These connections highlight how Duluth’s shipping industry ties into the larger global economy, making it an unexpected partner in supplying the islands with essential materials.
I know you mean! Some of the most beautiful profiles and vessels. I just hope that we get to see them for many more years to come. They are getting older.
Thanks Mike! I love seeing the Sykes. It is one of the few out there older than I am. Happy Holidays to you and your family! Happy Holidays to all the Boat Friends!
I’m glad you found the channel friend, welcome! ABC News did a great story about this UA-cam channel and the Boat Friends community that’s part of it, showing just how much fun we have exploring and talking about ships. I hope you subscribe (zero cost) and come back to have some fun with these ships. ABC News story: ua-cam.com/video/X1fWdiuszqE/v-deo.htmlsi=w0Rwsr9UuHfy2RqC
Watching from FL. (Tampa Bay) Former resident of Willmar MN (West Central). Crossed Lake Michigan many times in the 50's and my Uncle worked on the Wabash RR car ferry which also accommodated passenger cars for many years. We crossed from Manitowoc WI to Frankfort MI. Thanks for the videos.
This is very cool, I hope everything is going great there in Florida. There’s a little bit of research on the origin and operation of that ferry. The Wabash Railroad operated a car ferry service across the Detroit River, facilitating the transport of railcars between Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario. This service was essential for maintaining a seamless connection in the railroad’s network, allowing for the efficient movement of goods across the U.S.-Canada border.  The ferry operation was accessed via the Union Belt Railroad near the foot of 18th Street in Detroit, with the Windsor terminal located near what is now known as Festival Plaza. The Wabash’s main freight yard, Manifest Yard, was situated in Melvindale, west of the Rouge River, and played a crucial role in managing the freight traffic that utilized the ferry service.  In 1910, the Wabash Railroad acquired the car ferry Detroit from the Michigan Central Railroad. This vessel was instrumental in the Wabash’s cross-border operations, ensuring that railcars could be transported across the river efficiently.  The car ferry operations were typically propelled by tugboats, which maneuvered the ferries across the river. This method was common among the Wabash and other railroads operating similar services in the region.  These ferry services were vital during an era when bridges and tunnels were either non-existent or insufficient to handle the volume of rail traffic between the United States and Canada. The Wabash Railroad’s car ferry operations exemplify the innovative solutions employed to overcome geographical challenges in the transportation industry during the early 20th century.
What an amazing looking boat.! My dad was sailing “ the lakes” when the Sykes was first put out onto the water in ‘ 49. The Wilfred Sykes was on Lake Superior the night the “ Fitz” went down. They were loading right next to the Fitz, and watched it leave the harbor and go out onto the open lake. Cap’t Dudley Paquette of the Sykes did his own weather mapping, and thought the storm was going to be worse than the official meteorological reports, so he, along with the Roger Blough went to Thunder Bay and Isle Royale to take shelter from the coming storm…and good thing they did….the storm was massive. The Arthur Anderson, loading at Two Harbors, then accompanied the Fitz toward the Keweena peninsula and on to White Fish Bay. The Fitz succumbed to the storm. There is so much history in these boats. I had several uncles that also sailed the lakes during that time period, and their stories were Mesmerizing.
Trust me on this, when you have about a half an hour, please listen to this. It’s the most fascinating piece of audio and you literally get sucked into that night when the Edmund Fitzgerald sank. This is the actual Coast Guard audio from that night. You’ll hear the Captain of the Arthur Anderson agreeing to go out to look for the Fitz. It’s unbelievable, it starts at 20 seconds. ua-cam.com/video/C0Nk7Ou6YUg/v-deo.htmlsi=49bdU7ab0amR8-rN
Richard, I want you to know how much respect I have in so many other people have for your father who put time from his life on the water. Sacrificing time with his family to provide a living for them. It’s just amazing. Great men like that deserve so much respect.
@ 75 yrs old she is an absolute beauty. Still working hard! Look at those classic lines. I wonder how many more years she will remain in service? Mr Mike, could you get permission to film a laker ship passing through the canal from inside the lift bridge Operator House? That would be cool too. Thanks for another video 👍😎
It would be very cool to do that, but I’m not too sure what the likelihood will be based on the fact that I’m just a UA-camr. If they allow me to do that, then they can let anybody that’s a UA-camr do it. The city controls that process.
Thank you so much for the generous five-dollar donation, it truly means a lot. Recording the ships in the winter is such a unique and fun experience, and knowing there are people like you who enjoy and support this channel makes it all the more rewarding. Your continued support never goes unnoticed, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. Wishing you and your family a fantastic New Year filled with happiness and good health. Thank you again for being such an important part of this community! You are such a friend to the channel👍👍👍👍⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️👍
That paint scheme is the best on the lakes... makes me think of Fast Eddie and man I wish the Ryerson would be put back to work. Such a beautiful ship and IMO the best horn ever on the lakes.
She seems to be everyone’s favorite Classic,she’s my third favorite behind Philip R Clarke and Arthur M Anderson. Great video as always @Vibe with Mike and see you at the Soo cam sometime. Your friend and StreamTime Live Mod Pari Ann
Hey there Capt! The ice is very cool to see along the beach. Thanks for the ice in the habour basin, I am sure that she will handle the ice just fine. Wow! A master salute. How awesome is that!! She sure does remind me of The Fitz. Love me some of the old school lakers. I hope you had a good Christmas and are having a good day today. I will catch you later my friend. 🙋⛴
It’s so wonderful to hear from you! I hope everything is going great there in West Saint Paul. It’s starting to warm up in Minnesota, which is pretty crazy. We are gonna have Grass on the ground as we start. January is what I believe. I hope you had a great Christmas. I hope your family is doing well. Thanks for being part of the channel, my friend.
@@vibewithmike I believe you are right about having grass on the ground in January. The weather is so crazy, I am doing fine and my family is doing okay as well.
This is an amazing documentary from the 80s that shows the William Clay Ford, one of the ships that went out to look for the Edmund Fitzgerald, a story many people don’t know regarding the Clay Ford. Along with the Arthur M. Anderson, you’ll get to see Captain Erickson on his last voyage with this beautiful ship. You’ll also witness a Thanksgiving meal and so many other cool behind-the-scenes moments. ua-cam.com/video/9MsEQwqRtPo/v-deo.htmlsi=03FB-9udgxHwE6B2
Thanks 🙏
As always , you make it fun to watch every ship come and go. Thank you for all the work you do , much appreciated .
Thanks so much! I appreciate you watching and hope you're doing well. 🚢
What a great video. The ice on the shore is a site to behold for sure. Thank you, Mike, for making the Great Lakes accessible to all of us.
Brian, it was really cool to see the ice and snow. I really enjoyed this ship.
Right before watching the video, I was watching a documentary on Gordon Lightfoot, who’s Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald began my interest in the Great Lakes. Like you said the Sykes really does remind me of The Fitz. Beautiful ship
This is an amazing documentary from the 80s that shows the William Clay Ford, one of the ships that went out to look for the Edmund Fitzgerald, a story many people don’t know. Along with the Arthur M. Anderson, you’ll get to see Captain Erickson on his last voyage with this beautiful ship. You’ll also witness a Thanksgiving meal and so many other cool behind-the-scenes moments. ua-cam.com/video/9MsEQwqRtPo/v-deo.htmlsi=03FB-9udgxHwE6B2
@@vibewithmikealright! It’s on my “watch next” list. Thank you.
Brian, I have watched that video a couple dozen times. It never gets old. It is so real, even though it’s not high definition you really get a sense of old-school shipping behind the scenes. It’s awesome. You even see the ship arrive under the Duluth bridge at one point.
Nice Master Salute!!!! Merry Christmas to all this cold and blustery day!!!
Elizabeth, merry Christmas to you and yours, my friend. I hope you had a good one. I hope the weather was good.
That ice on Duluth’s shore is just incredible and so is the mighty Sykes! Thanks for another amazing video Mike!
I'm so glad you enjoyed it!
That's my first time to see this beautiful lady. The Old School Lakers are my favorites. Have a good one Mike, take care and God Bless ya Brother!!!🙏❤😊
Lumpy, it gets no better than being able to record a ship from the 40s on Lake superior
What a fabulous ship. Such beautiful graceful lines.
The Sykes was the last ship to depart from Escanaba, MI back in 2017. She left with the very last pieces of ore from the Empire mine. Cleaned them out. The ship was less than 1/2 full. 150 years after the dock was built. The end of an era.
Mike, I really really liked your graphic of the harbor from the WDIO cam. It's neat how you pointed out paths carved out in the ice. Very creative.
Burr
I'm glad you enjoyed the video. It's truly a beautiful ship with a storied past. Always great information that you provide Chuck.
Chuck, as always, very interesting details!! Hope you are having a wonderful Christmas season!!
Elizabeth, Chuck always has great things to say
@@elizabethw4519 Hi there Elizabeth. It's almost 2025. Hard to believe.
It’s always a treat when I see a notification from you of a ship video to watch! I enjoyed the looks of this vessel (as well as its grace coming through the canal); I am glad that it is still a working ship even though it is one of the older ones. I also appreciated the close up of the control house for the bridge. I have a feeling that the ships passing under is a sight that would never grow old or tiresome for the lift bridge operators. I rather envy them! :)
Hi Janet. I also like receiving Mike's notifications!!
It is one of the classic ships on the Great Lakes
👍👍👍👍👍
One of the Coolest ole schools with such a story. Thanks Mike for bring us another great video. ⚓👍
It’s one of the most beautiful ships coming through the Sykes
Wonderful videos I love the lore of the Great Lakes GOD BLESS YOU BROTHER
I appreciate you watching, brother.
What a beauty! Classic profile. Thank you, Mike, for going out in the cold so we could see her, too.🙂
It's one of my favorites, glad you enjoyed it!
Always love seeing the old style Lakers they just look majestic, sliding in through the channel! Thanks, Mike!!
George, there’s nothing like seeing a ship built in the 40s coming into Duluth
I love that lighthouse out there. The ship is amazing. I just can’t get over how huge they are.
The Lighthouse does look cool. It looks really good next to the bridge.
@ I love lighthouses. I bought one several years ago. It was over $1000 but it’s about 5‘3“ somewhere along in there and then I have a rock base that I bought from the same people that sits on and it actually works. I think I bought it from a place called the Lighthouse Man. They make really cool houses.
My dad use to do the emergency generator testing for the coast guard inspection on the Sykes, Ryerson and the Block in Sturgeon Bay every year right on or near my birthday, I got to visit those 3 often as a kid for many years.
Memories
What a great story! You have some wonderful memories of those ships. I’ll tell you this, I have a ton of respect for your dad for putting that uniform on. Big-time respect for that guy.
@@vibewithmike Well, my dad was a marine but at this stage he was a GM diesel man, he was there at the request of Inland steel (owners of these 3 at the time) to run these units for the inspection so there would be no problems.
I’ll bet he had many stories to share with you. Great memories.
Exactly Michael
I really enjoyed seeing this ship come through. Great video!
Thank you Mike for giving us all a look at the Wilfred Sykes.
Glad you enjoyed it! I absolutely love the Sykes
My Favorite Ship...WILFRED SYKES....THANKS AGAIN...I LOVE WATCHING YOUR VIDEOS..
Thank you for the wonderful compliment. There’s nothing like looking at an old-school ship like this. We were lucky to capture it on a nice day with ice in the water. It was really cool.
The Wilfred Sykes is one of the most interesting and historic ships on the Great Lakes. Built in 1949, it was the first freighter constructed on the Great Lakes after World War II and set a new standard for ship design. At the time, it was the largest and most modern freighter on the lakes, earning the nickname “Queen of the Lakes.” Many people do not know that the Wilfred Sykes was originally painted gray and nicknamed the “Gray Ghost.” Years later, this nickname was passed to the Paul R. Tregurtha, the largest ship on the Great Lakes today, but the original “Gray Ghost” was the Sykes.
The Sykes was a pioneer in shipbuilding, being one of the first freighters to feature a completely welded hull, which made it stronger and more durable than older riveted ships. It was also one of the most efficient freighters of its time, thanks to its powerful engines and innovative design. Its maiden voyage carried iron ore from Escanaba, Michigan, to Indiana Harbor, and it operated on this route for many years. Despite being over 70 years old, the Wilfred Sykes is still in service today, making it a symbol of resilience and craftsmanship on the Great Lakes.
Beautiful♥️ Love,love, love the old ships!!!
I’m glad you like her, it’s one of my favorites!
Another amazing ship of age still in service and still looking great, thanks again Mike 👍
Thanks for watching another ship video with me. I hope you are doing well.🚢
Liked it all. The walk about, the lake, the beach, the bridge, and the Sykes. Just keep makin’ ‘em and posting ‘em.
Thanks so much for the feedback, I really appreciate it!
I think this is one of my favorite ships. She is only 1 year younger than me, and I love the fact she is still going strong.
Kathy, it’s definitely an old-school beautiful ship
Beautiful ship! I think this is the first time I've seen it. Thanks for sharing!
I wish I could see it every day
Great video Mike! Great master salute!
I agree! I love that the master of the ship takes the time to acknowledge the people watching!
Totally awesome what a ship. And always a fantastic job Mike keep it up.
The ship is so old-school Tim
Beautiful ship, in good shape for its age. Quite a line-up of vessels too!
It definitely seems like it’s well taken care of Ruth, it’s a pleasure to see a ship like this
Another great video. What a beautiful ship. I will look at your videos as I'm kind of new. I want to see them pull up to the different docks and load or unload. Not the whole thing but the tying up and a tour of where the docks are.
Thanks, I hope you enjoy the channel! I plan on doing more of the loading and unloading videos in the future. ABC News did a few stories about the Boat Friends. Make sure to watch the video in each article.
News story #1
www.wdio.com/front-page/top-stories/vibe-with-mike-reaches-international-shipwatching-community/
News story #2
www.wdio.com/lift-online/online-shipping-videos-compel-visits-to-duluth/
Gorgeous ship! Love the old school look. I did not think there would be so much ice (red arrow) with so much traffic. Surprising. Thanks for the great video Mike.
I know, it’s crazy how much ice there is in the harbor, right?
Thanks for another great video, Mike. She is a classic! And I loved the Master salute. 🫡 ❤
I wish I could see the ship every day. It is so old-school and it’s what Great Lakes shipping is all about.
@ Agreed. I live closer to Lake Michigan now. Not nearly as much shipping action, and I’m not big on driving 200 miles round trip to get to MQT, so I especially appreciate your videos. You bring my favorite freighters to me.
Hey, no worries my friend. I will keep pushing these videos out to you.
Watching from Auburn, Alabama (Home of Auburn University) Love your videos--I am 77 and still working.
Thanks for watching my friend. Hope all is well.🚢
You made Doug's day. Built the year he was born. He gave it a, "NICE!". Thanks, Mike!
I’m so glad that Doug enjoyed the ship. Tell him it was a pleasure recording it. It was a pleasure recording it for you as well. Thanks, Kathleen.
Seasons Greetings !
Every body !
Another Awsom video by Mike !
From the ships lined up in the lake and the season winding down
Every body is maxing out their runs till it is over !
Shore ice starting to form
Evry body stay warm and
Have a great day !
It’s so fun recording one of those large ships on the Great Lakes. One of the old-school ones.
Wonderful love to see ships in the winter from New York
It is so much fun to capture these ships in the winter months.
That is such an impressive ship! Even the horn is old-school!
One of the most beautiful ships out there this is the second time I was able to record it
Thanks for sharing Mike amazing .
Glad you enjoyed it
This was an awesome day of ship watching in Duluth!! Magical! All day!!! Happy to have been there in person! Happy New Year Mike and fellow boat friends!!
Yes it was! I will never forget that parade of ships, Lauren
Hope everyone had a beautiful Christmas! Awesome video!
I’m glad you enjoyed the video. It was an incredible day.
Thanks Mike. Looks cold there today even though 23 isn’t bad.
It was a chilly day on the lake!
Good afternoon Mike. Beautiful scenery. We had a beautiful sunny 🌞 day here in Fredericton with a temp of -2
Thanks so much for watching, Bob. I’m glad you enjoyed the scenery. It was cold here in Duluth too!
@vibewithmike Your welcome Mike. -20 is -5c, isn't that cold except for the wind makes it colder. Temperature starting to drop here. 4 minutes to 8pm here in Fredericton
It’s gonna start getting warmer at some point. I just got to believe in that.
Watching from Louisiana and it's cold wet and rainy but this video cheered me right on up
Hey Shirley, if you’re saying, it’s rainy, there’s no snow, that’s a good thing friend. I’m glad that the video cheered you
Another great video of a great ship! Thanks for showing it to us Mike! Hope you had a great Christmas with your family!
There’s my man, Mr. breeze! I thought you might like the Sykes video. Old school ship
Thanks Mike! Awesome.
The Sykes is an awesome vessel
My two favorite ships are the Arthur M. Anderson and the Wilfred Sykes. Beautiful old school ships. They both played a role searching for survivors of the Edmund Fitzgerald in November 1975. Thank you for this excellent video, Mike.
That’s exactly right and also don’t forget that the Sykes loaded right next to the Fitzgerald and Superior before left that day.
I'm enjoying these winter/cold weather videos exceedingly. I don't know a lot about the Lakers but this is my first time seeing the Sykes, what a retro classic.
FWIW: I live in the warm and sunny Tucson, Arizona area. I don't even want to go outside when it's less than 60 degrees F.
It's interesting to see how many boat friends go out to watch the boats on your frigid days.
I heard that you kind of had a heat wave the last week touching almost 80°. Tucson is a beautiful city. I love the mountains there. It’s a very easy airport to fly to as well from Minnesota. Nonstop and the rental car terminal is right in the airport.
Beautiful, thanks
It’s one of my favorite videos I’ve made!
Another classic, Mike .
It’s a beautiful ship
Thanks Mike, being of the same time as the EFG makes it even more special. Hope you had a great Christmas, God Bless you and yours in the New Year..!!!!!
Darth, I hope you have a fantastic evening. I hope your Christmas was wonderful. I’m already looking forward to the new year. We’ll get some good ships
She’s an old beauty with grace! Amazing ship! I guess it’s gonna be covered with ice in a short while🤔! Thank’s for this one Mike😃👍
Nothing like an old-school ship built in the 40s to watch
I,live in Detroit, Michigan and I am a new Subscriber to Your Channel. Back in the Day and I remember when the Wilfred Sykes used to sail for Inland Steel Company, and I remember when the Joseph L.Block, and the Edward L.Ryerson, which is in Long Term Layup in Duluth.
I,used to take trips to Sault Ste Marie, Michigan. I've, took a of Pictures of the Old School Freighters and I still have them to remember them, after when they get scrapped.
I,also remember when the Stewart J.Cort was launched in 1972,and I was in Junior High School at the time when the Stewart J.Cort was sailing Upbound on the Detroit River.
Thanks for subscribing! It's great to have you aboard and I'm glad you appreciate our Great Lakes history. ABC News did a few stories about the Boat Friends. Make sure to watch the video in each article.
News story #1
www.wdio.com/front-page/top-stories/vibe-with-mike-reaches-international-shipwatching-community/
News story #2
www.wdio.com/lift-online/online-shipping-videos-compel-visits-to-duluth/
the Sxkes: Just a beauty on the lakes and nice to see coming in to Duluth. ❤
I know a lot of these older ships are gonna have limited time on the Great Lakes. I want to enjoy this ship and others. Every chance I get. I hope you’re having a great Thursday.
Very cool!! Thank you!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the ship
Looking good from Hawaii. Thanks
Duluth and Hawaii might seem worlds apart, but they are connected through shipping in ways many people may not realize. Duluth, as the westernmost port on the Great Lakes, plays a vital role in the movement of goods from the heart of North America to the rest of the world. Much of the cargo shipped from Duluth, such as grain and taconite, begins its journey here before heading through the Great Lakes and the St. Lawrence Seaway to the Atlantic Ocean. From there, it can reach destinations across the globe, including ports in Hawaii. While Duluth may not ship directly to Hawaii, the goods transported from its port often make their way there as part of larger global supply chains.
One of the key links between Duluth and Hawaii is through steel and construction materials, which can originate in the Midwest. Taconite, a type of iron ore, is often shipped from Duluth to be processed into steel that is later used in construction projects, including some in Hawaii. Additionally, agricultural products like grain shipped from Duluth are used worldwide, including in regions like Hawaii that rely heavily on imported goods. These connections highlight how Duluth’s shipping industry ties into the larger global economy, making it an unexpected partner in supplying the islands with essential materials.
Amazing site. Thank you so very much
Always welcome. Thanks for checking out another ship.
Go Mike! Great footage! Thank you!🎉
There’s nothing like an old-school ship going by with some ice on it
@@vibewithmike LOVE the old school ships. So wonderful!
Love the classic laker. Great job with this video. ❤
Thanks so much for watching, this is an awesome one
Another old classic stay safe
It really has an old school looked at is hard to be on the Great Lakes
I really love the look of those old lakers. They have such a distinctive and beautiful profile.
I know you mean! Some of the most beautiful profiles and vessels. I just hope that we get to see them for many more years to come. They are getting older.
Thanks Mike for another video. Stay warm my friend. Go get something warm to drink. I hope you had a wonderful Christmas.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas too, thanks for watching!
Thank you for this video...Beautiful ship !!!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Love to watch the ships reminds me when I worked on them
Which is your favorite ship that you worked on Mike?
BEAUTIFUL SHIP ❤️❤️❤️❤️
It’s one of my favorite ships on the Great Lakes
Hello everybody . merry Christmas to you all the best of yrs to come . Windsor sends are greetings
Hello, right back to my friend there in Windsor! I hope everything is great there in Canada🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️
Oh she’s Purrdy !
I love the old school ships too !!!
As cool as it gets, a ship that is built in the 40s going under the Duluth Lift Bridge
Thanks Mike! I love seeing the Sykes. It is one of the few out there older than I am. Happy Holidays to you and your family! Happy Holidays to all the Boat Friends!
Thanks so much, I’m glad you enjoy the video. I really love this ship.
Great video Mike. Happy Christmas. 🙋♂️👏👏🇬🇧
Happy new year ⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧
I hope you had a great Christmas, Mike
I see the Sykes, and all I can think about is the Ryerson! They both were classics the whole time I grew up! Awesome footage as usual Mike!!
Very good point! It actually looks way more like the Ryerson. I would love to see that Ryerson out again.
Built the year I was born. My favorite ❤️ thanks
Mary, that means it’s a special ship
Great ship,agreedlookslikea classic,really like the ice build up along the shoreline, Brr 23 degrees
Glad you like it nothing like those old-school classic Lakers.
Wonderful shots of this ship. Hope you had a happy Christmas.
I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and I hope you had a wonderful Christmas as well!
Thanks for the very informative video!
I’m glad you found the channel friend, welcome! ABC News did a great story about this UA-cam channel and the Boat Friends community that’s part of it, showing just how much fun we have exploring and talking about ships. I hope you subscribe (zero cost) and come back to have some fun with these ships. ABC News story: ua-cam.com/video/X1fWdiuszqE/v-deo.htmlsi=w0Rwsr9UuHfy2RqC
Greetings from Florida (high today only 55 today) What a beautiful ship!
It is a beautiful ship and you are in a beautiful state too, I hope you are warm.
I really like the look of the “old school”bridge. It is kool and cool!
I love those old bridges. It was built in the early 1900s.
Many thanks for the great video ❤️
You are most welcome, I appreciate you watching.
A real beauty. Thanks Mike
William, it’s one of the most beautiful ships out there
Love the old school steam ships.
We will not see these old-school steamships forever and I hope we get to see them many more years though
What a beauty.
One of the most beautiful old-school ships out there, Judy
Thanks Mike
I’m glad that you enjoyed it Ray, I hope you had a great Christmas too
Watching from FL. (Tampa Bay) Former resident of Willmar MN (West Central). Crossed Lake Michigan many times in the 50's and my Uncle worked on the Wabash RR car ferry which also accommodated passenger cars for many years. We crossed from Manitowoc WI to Frankfort MI. Thanks for the videos.
This is very cool, I hope everything is going great there in Florida. There’s a little bit of research on the origin and operation of that ferry. The Wabash Railroad operated a car ferry service across the Detroit River, facilitating the transport of railcars between Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario. This service was essential for maintaining a seamless connection in the railroad’s network, allowing for the efficient movement of goods across the U.S.-Canada border. 
The ferry operation was accessed via the Union Belt Railroad near the foot of 18th Street in Detroit, with the Windsor terminal located near what is now known as Festival Plaza. The Wabash’s main freight yard, Manifest Yard, was situated in Melvindale, west of the Rouge River, and played a crucial role in managing the freight traffic that utilized the ferry service. 
In 1910, the Wabash Railroad acquired the car ferry Detroit from the Michigan Central Railroad. This vessel was instrumental in the Wabash’s cross-border operations, ensuring that railcars could be transported across the river efficiently. 
The car ferry operations were typically propelled by tugboats, which maneuvered the ferries across the river. This method was common among the Wabash and other railroads operating similar services in the region. 
These ferry services were vital during an era when bridges and tunnels were either non-existent or insufficient to handle the volume of rail traffic between the United States and Canada. The Wabash Railroad’s car ferry operations exemplify the innovative solutions employed to overcome geographical challenges in the transportation industry during the early 20th century.
What an amazing looking boat.! My dad was sailing “ the lakes” when the Sykes was first put out onto the water in ‘ 49. The Wilfred Sykes was on Lake Superior the night the “ Fitz” went down. They were loading right next to the Fitz, and watched it leave the harbor and go out onto the open lake. Cap’t Dudley Paquette of the Sykes did his own weather mapping, and thought the storm was going to be worse than the official meteorological reports, so he, along with the Roger Blough went to Thunder Bay and Isle Royale to take shelter from the coming storm…and good thing they did….the storm was massive. The Arthur Anderson, loading at Two Harbors, then accompanied the Fitz toward the Keweena peninsula and on to White Fish Bay. The Fitz succumbed to the storm.
There is so much history in these boats. I had several uncles that also sailed the lakes during that time period, and their stories were
Mesmerizing.
Trust me on this, when you have about a half an hour, please listen to this. It’s the most fascinating piece of audio and you literally get sucked into that night when the Edmund Fitzgerald sank. This is the actual Coast Guard audio from that night. You’ll hear the Captain of the Arthur Anderson agreeing to go out to look for the Fitz. It’s unbelievable, it starts at 20 seconds.
ua-cam.com/video/C0Nk7Ou6YUg/v-deo.htmlsi=49bdU7ab0amR8-rN
Richard, I want you to know how much respect I have in so many other people have for your father who put time from his life on the water. Sacrificing time with his family to provide a living for them. It’s just amazing. Great men like that deserve so much respect.
👍👍👍👍👍👍Hi Mike . Good camera work. I liked that Pilot House on that ship. ----Michigan
The pilot house is absolutely beautiful
Gotta love 'old school'!!!
I could watch that ship every day, Paula
@vibewithmike She is a beauty! Like you said, it's designed like the Edmund Fitzgerald.
Man, that looks so cold! ❤❤❤
It sure was a chilly day on the Great Lakes!
Thanks Mike, I'm cold just looking at the lake. Stay warm and safe.
I really love these classic Lakers
Thanks for another video Mike!! I look forward to spring trip this year duluth to grand portage
That's an awesome trip, I'm sure you'll have a great time out there.
She’s a beaut!
Thanks for watching. Randy, I hope you had a great Christmas.
@ 75 yrs old she is an absolute beauty. Still working hard! Look at those classic lines. I wonder how many more years she will remain in service?
Mr Mike, could you get permission to film a laker ship passing through the canal from inside the lift bridge Operator House? That would be cool too.
Thanks for another video 👍😎
It would be very cool to do that, but I’m not too sure what the likelihood will be based on the fact that I’m just a UA-camr. If they allow me to do that, then they can let anybody that’s a UA-camr do it. The city controls that process.
Think warm thoughts
Thank you so much for the generous five-dollar donation, it truly means a lot. Recording the ships in the winter is such a unique and fun experience, and knowing there are people like you who enjoy and support this channel makes it all the more rewarding. Your continued support never goes unnoticed, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. Wishing you and your family a fantastic New Year filled with happiness and good health. Thank you again for being such an important part of this community! You are such a friend to the channel👍👍👍👍⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️👍
Merry Christmas and New Year. Sandwich, Mass. CC Canal, 20 degs. Cloudy flurries
No wind. Thank you Mike.
Merry Christmas right back at you, Mark, hope everything is great there in Massachusetts
1949 incredible to see a ship that old still making money. Great video.
She is one of the last of her kind, and they sure are beautiful!
Another great video Mike
Thank you, we can never go wrong with a beautiful ship built in the 1940s. Have a great Friday Jennifer.
You too Mike
👋👍⛴️
Great looking ship. Same colour scheme as the Edward L.Ryerson.
You’re right, that’s a classic color scheme!
What a beautiful ship! It's 52° here in SW Missouri but after watching this I'm hunting for a blanket lol❤Thanks Mike
I have a feeling you’re not the only one heading for a blanket after this one. 😂
Hey Mike, great content as always. But I have to say GO PACK GO, LOL.
Woodman, it’s going be a great game! Border rivalry. It gets no better in December Brother.
That paint scheme is the best on the lakes... makes me think of Fast Eddie and man I wish the Ryerson would be put back to work. Such a beautiful ship and IMO the best horn ever on the lakes.
Absolutely agree on the Ryerson, that is a beautiful vessel.
Nice shot showing the path the ships created through the ice 1:51
Glad that you enjoyed the video again
She seems to be everyone’s favorite Classic,she’s my third favorite behind Philip R Clarke and Arthur M Anderson.
Great video as always @Vibe with Mike and see you at the Soo cam sometime.
Your friend and StreamTime Live Mod
Pari Ann
Pari Ann, it’s great to see you here on the channel! Thanks for watching! I hope you had a great Christmas
Cool ship. I’m actually back in Minnesota as we speak but down south in Hastings. I’ll head up Duluth on my next trip.
Very cool, you made it back to Minnesota just in time for the warm-up. I heard it’s in the 40s this weekend in the Twin Cities.
Hey there Capt! The ice is very cool to see along the beach. Thanks for the ice in the habour basin, I am sure that she will handle the ice just fine. Wow! A master salute. How awesome is that!! She sure does remind me of The Fitz. Love me some of the old school lakers. I hope you had a good Christmas and are having a good day today. I will catch you later my friend.
🙋⛴
It’s so wonderful to hear from you! I hope everything is going great there in West Saint Paul. It’s starting to warm up in Minnesota, which is pretty crazy. We are gonna have Grass on the ground as we start. January is what I believe. I hope you had a great Christmas. I hope your family is doing well. Thanks for being part of the channel, my friend.
@@vibewithmike I believe you are right about having grass on the ground in January. The weather is so crazy, I am doing fine and my family is doing okay as well.
⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️⛴️🙏🙏🙏🙏
Beautiful old school laker. That ice laden shore water would be an extra challenge for a polar plunge charity event 🥶⚓️🚢
Yes, there was ice and snow all over the shore. How cool is that to see ice on sand
Beautiful indeed. ⚓ 🛳
I’m glad you think so! I love watching these ships come into the harbor
Merry Christmas Mike from the west coast of British Columbia, Canada.
I hope you had a wonderful Christmas there in Canada, my friend