NORTH CAPE MAY, NJ – The Cape May – Lewes Ferry’s (CMLF) has commenced sounding “Bravo-Zulu” on the vessel’s horn to show support and appreciation to health care providers on both sides of the Delaware Bay who are on the frontlines of the battle with COVID-19. The signal will be broadcast each evening at 5:45 p.m. in Cape May, New Jersey, and 7:30 p.m. in Lewes, Delaware. The tribute will continue daily through June 30, 2020.
“We wanted to show our appreciation to the healthcare workers in our community and to let them know we are thinking of them,” said Derek Robinson, Cape May Lewes Ferry Port Captain. “Our ships will sound BZ fifteen minutes prior to leaving the respective ports on the last departures for the day. These are challenging times, but we’ll get through this together!”
The combination of the nautical signal flags Bravo-Zulu (also referred to as “BZ”) is a naval signal meaning “Well Done” with regards to actions, operations, or performance. The vessels horn will issue the following each day at 5:45 p.m. in Cape May and 7:30 p.m. in Lewes:
Bravo – one long sound blast followed by three short sound bursts (__ …)
Zulu – two long sound blasts followed by two short sound bursts (__ __ ..)
Other marine operations have been performing this symbolic tribute in other parts of the country, typically at 7:00 p.m. The Cape May – Lewes Ferry is coordinating its signal gesture with the Ferry’s departure schedule. In addition, the vessel will be docked at the time of signal transmission so no confusion will occur with Delaware Bay vessel traffic.
Source: DRBA