The replica ship Elizabeth II of Manteo is shown under sail, a sight not seen in years because of shoaling at the intersection of Shallowbag Bay and the Roanoke Sound. Photo: Friends of Elizabeth II
MANTEO After being stuck at home for nearly four years, the state-owned 16th century representative sailing ship Elizabeth II should soon be able to venture out from its dock alongside Roanoke Island Festival Park.
Long-delayed dredging was set to begin Monday at the intersection of Roanoke Sound and Shallowbag Bay, but technical and weather challenges put off the work for at least another day. The project is needed to unclog a channel that will allow the three-masted, six-sailed vessel to motor off from its Manteo homeport for overdue maintenance work.