On October 20, 2003, we celebrated the naming and launching of a multi-purpose cargo vessel "S448" at our dockyard. She is a sister ship of m.v. "Arklow Wave", which we covered in the previous issue.

Again, we were blessed with a cloudless and windless weather. It was indeed a crisp autumn day, as many tourists anticipate in this high season in Japan.

We had six guests from Arklow Shipping, including Mr. Tyrrell, CEO, and two from Bureau Veritas. With a rather small attendance, the ceremony took place in a friendly and hearty atmosphere, partly thanks to the warm character of Irish people.

After playing of the national anthems, Ms. Sheila Tyrrell, chairman of the ship-owning company, named the vessel as "Arklow Wind". The godmother then cut the champagne cord with a beautiful yet dynamic stroke of the axe. Yes, Ms. Tyrrell's axeplay was so perfect that the audience erupted in big cheers and applause !

And, euh, that's not all. There was a post-party party (as you may guess) ! We occupied a jazz bar, which finally turned out to be an... Irish pub ! As far as I remember, we drunk much, played guitar and piano, experienced the river-dance, and sung out together the Irish national anthem in Gaelic ! [2004/2/20]