Mayflower II Comes Home To Plymouth

PLYMOUTH, MA — The Mayflower II embarked on the final leg of her journey home on Monday.

The 64-year-old reproduction of the ship that brought the pilgrims to Plymouth in 1620 returned to the town after an $11.2 million renovation.

On her way home! #MayflowerII #Mayflower400 pic.twitter.com/mmuRveaJIh
— Plymouth Police Dept (@Plymouth_Police) August 10, 2020

The ship, which underwent the extensive renovations over three years spent in New London, Connecticut, at the Mystic Seaport Museum's Henry B. duPont Preservation Shipyard, traveled from New Bedford to the Mass. Maritime Academy in Bourne this weekend. It docked at Pilgrim Memorial State Park on Monday.

The ship arrived in Plymouth Harbor about 3 p.m.

Our Marine Unit had a special mission today. Marine 9 escorted Mayflower II from @MMAAdmissions, where she was docked over the weekend, to her home berth near @plimoth Plantation. The trip was the final leg of the ship's journey home after a 3-year restoration in Mystic, Conn. pic.twitter.com/lOm70geR9G
— Mass State Police (@MassStatePolice) August 10, 2020

Plymouth Fire Department's fire boat, as well as help from the Plymouth Police Department, Plymouth Harbormaster, Massachusetts State Police Marine Unit and the Massachusetts Environmental Police, assisted in escorting the Mayflower II to dock. Plymouth fire said responsibilities of the escort vessels included providing a "security zone," maintaining a clear path and ensuring safe boating standards for nearby vessels.

"We were thrilled to be able to assist in the escort for the Mayflower II, which pays homage to an iconic part of Plymouth’s history and culture," Plymouth Fire Chief G. Edward Bradley said. "We were fortunate that the weather cooperated with us, and that we were able to take part in this special event."

As part of the escort, the PFD fire boat performed a "water salute" by engaging its on-board water pump.

"In a year marred by loss and great uncertainty in the world, we are hopeful that once again sailing Mayflower may offer a symbol of courage and perseverance to millions of people," said Ellie Donovan, Plimoth's Executive Director in a post on the town's Facebook account last month. "We will be forever grateful to Mystic Seaport Museum for their partnership on this remarkable restoration, and we are thrilled to bring Mayflower home to Plymouth in this 400th commemoration year."

A planned stop in Newport, Rhode Island was canceled due to the coronavirus health crisis.

Related Patch Coverage: Restored Mayflower II Returning To Plymouth