We did some laughing with a local character on one of our City & Cape Tours last week. Our friend is a professional fish fileter who works at the new processing facility on the south side of St. John’s harbour. Located alongside the ‘Small Boat Basin’ and all the fishing action, he can often be seen sitting in his pickup, enjoying a smoke, chatting with the crowd, and honing his knives; a much deserved break and the only way to keep his utensils sharp enough to manage the onslaught of fish that will pour through on his next shift. He’s one of our “go to” men on the wharf and is always keen to share his insights. It’s a great stop.
“… chatting with the fishing crowd …”
The next morning we ran into our buddy again, listening to him marvel at that morning’s tour. How much he appreciated our introduction, the pride we instill in the fishery, and the opportunity to hear some of our guest’s stories and observations.
But the thing he couldn’t understand is why McCarthy’s Party Tours are the only ones who ever take the time to stop and speak.
“… pride we instill…”
“Most of them look like they’re frightened to death, tip toeing around us like a bunch of haunts!”
“That’s because they probably are! Lord suffering! A great big man like you, “hove off” in the truck, whipping a knife blade back and forth across the stone all day. Even the poor guides from the mainland aren’t going to take a chance on approaching you!”
“… take a chance…”
“No, I suppose not… never thought about that. Guess that’s why you guys are so busy all the time.”
“Most certainly. After the coastal beauty, Newfoundlanders are our second biggest tourist attraction and along with “the likes of you”, we create the most authentic experiences anyone is likely to find in this country. We want our guests to know what Newfoundland & Labrador is really like and why its such an important part of Canadian culture.”
Cutting new trails takes on a whole new meaning with McCarthy’s Party Tours
“… authentic experiences …”
Good old Andy.
Always good for a laugh or two.
Can’t wait to hear your tales from India. Have had a great year with your father and the new boat. What a lovely ship.