Kevin Allerston
Northern News Services

Yellowknife (Aug 17/05) - Old Town's government dock had a special visitor on Monday. The M.S. Norweta, the pride of the Mackenzie River, was in town, ready to show people the beauty of Great Slave Lake.

Greg Whitlock captains the M.S. Norweta to the east arm of Great Slave Lake every summer. The boat is the only cruise ship in the NWT. The boat, usually docked in Hay River, was in Yellowknife on Monday to bring guests to Utsingi Point.

The cruise ship is owned by Margarette, George, and Greg Whitlock. Launched as a passenger ship in 1971, the Whitlocks bought it 1990 and have spent $1 million making the 10-cabin vessel ship-shape.

The Norweta has been connecting people from around the world to the beauty of the North ever since.

Looking proud with new decals, the Norweta was in Yellowknife to pick up passengers bound for the east arm of Great Slave Lake, a trip captained each season by Greg Whitlock.

"It's an exercise in love. We do it more for the enjoyment of what we offer than looking for financial gains," Whitlock said. "It's a way of life more than anything."

Whitlock said the 103 foot by 25 foot boat is a stable one, capable of navigating in 25-foot waves.

"When other boats are pretty much windbound, we can be out there," Whitlock said.

The Norweta helps out boats stranded by the weather, making way for them in heavy seas.

"If people do get wind-bound, some will follow us back to Yellowknife," Whitlock said.

Testimonials

Norweta's east arm tours cost $1,000 while the Mackenzie River cruise costs about $5,000, a price people are very willing to pay. The ship's log holds testimonials from around the world.

Claire Hamel from France wrote, "Beautiful tour."

Charlie and Rowell Brindell from Memphis, Tennessee, USA: "Memorable trip with great friends! Thanks to all!"