Father Zinno had a unique perch for this year’s Blessing of the Fleet in Bristol Harbor, one of the signature events of Harbor Fest, now in its 10th year. He was stationed on the deck of the Nao Trinidad, the replica of Magellan’s flagship which has graced Rockwell Dock for nearly two weeks.

With him, reviewing the fleet, was (l-r) Harbormaster Gregg Marsili and Town Councilor Tony Teixeira. Marsili’s daughter Gabriella, 19, also tossed flowers into the harbor as part of the tradition.

“It was a great day, well attended,” said Marsili after the event. In all, nearly 60 boats processed past the Nao Trinidad for a blessing, while on land, organizers served 245 littleneck boils and 75 steaks at the dinner, along with countless a la carte shucked oysters and littlenecks. Though still finalizing the numbers at press time, the event brought in a tidy sum to benefit local marine-related children's activities.