Flags will be flying as the Bluenose II arrives in Port Hawkesbury for Festival of the Strait.

Our community is competing with Canso to see which harbour gives the better reception.

During the iconic schooner’s 2020 visit, there was a friendly competition between Canso and Whitehead.

In June, Canso Councilor Fin Armsworthy issued the challenge to Port Hawkesbury Mayor Brenda Chisholm-Beaton — and she happily accepted!

Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador is expected to reach Port Hawkesbury by about 6 p.m. Thursday.

You can walk the deck and talk to the crew Friday and Saturday.

Then on Sunday, the Bluenose II will cross Chedabucto Bay to visit Canso.

A drone will be used to count the vessels in each port to determine the bigger welcoming flotilla.