Mt. Washington blinking ??
 

Why doesn't the Mt Washington blink back to islanders any more? A tradition we all grew up with on Rattlesnake!!

Blackout?
 

We have noticed the same thing. I finally gave up flashing the Mount as she passed East Bear Island. 🐻

I was on a dinner cruise last summer and the captain flashed the spotlight at many islanders.

Oh that's sad if they aren't doing that any more.

From my end of the switch
 

As I sat down to breakfast this morning, and had my morning check of the site, I was saddened to see this post. As you may or may not know, I am one of the Captains at the other end of the switch, so let me share my perspective with you. I personally flashed back last night to the southwest corner of Rattlesnake, Someone along the mainland around Ames Farm and North end of Diamond, Also Lake Shore Park and the South end of Welch. I can't speak for my fellow Captain as to if and where you shone the spotlight. Things to keep in mind, we love this tradition as much as you. The spotlight is controlled in the wheelhouse, and our wheelhouse is the Nerve Center of the ship, We are responsible for hundreds of passengers, 15-25 crew, serving dinner, drinks, 2 bands that are entertaining, dancing and wonderful sunsets. All this goes on while you are at the other end of the light switch on your house, camp or sometimes cell phone flashlight. We try to "flash" everyone, but Safety aboard our vessel is and will always be Priority #1, so if we don't see you, please don't be insulted or feel neglected, the fact is we may be dealing with something or someone on the cruise that needs our attention.

While we are on this subject a few items that you can help us with, Porch lights, interior lights and even cell phone lights are ok, Giant Spotlights, Strobes and other hi wattage lights shone at the wheelhouse will NOT be responded to, our eyes adjust to the darkness, and they are blinding to say the least. Please do not shine these at the Mount, if your neighbor is one of those people please tell them as well.

I hope this helps you understand, we aren't ignoring you or doing away with traditions. We are Keeping our ship, passengers and fellow boaters safe.

Sincerely,
Captain Denis

The mail boat used to blow the horn when waved to by the kids on the way by Mark Island. We haven’t seen this happen lately either

Asking for some small friends :)

I loved it when the Mount would go through Glendale between Lockes Island and Pig Island.

Flashing the Mount
 

We were aboard the Mount years ago when she passed between Locke's Island and Pig Island headed east through Glendale Harbor. The Mount flashed to a dock on Locke's, and was flashed back by the bare backsides of several young guys. The Mount's searchlight quickly moved her light beam elsewhere. 🐻

I do believe that I have heard the "other end" of this story!

Now that I've heard both sides of it, one end from an islander, and now from someone on board the Mount, I finally believe it! :)

Thank you!!
 

First thank you for the explanation of all of the responsibilities involved in the mounts operation!! Secondly on behalf of all of the children on our dock tonight THANKS FOR BLINKING!!!

Thanks WBB! I will say someone on the boat is an absolute sniper with that spotlight. My parents house is on the water and we flash all the time and it's often responded to with a perfect bullseye ;)

Check this out!
 

Thanks again. Here’s a picture taken Saturday from our camp!!