Spectators lined the Onset docks to catch patriotism afloat as boats cruised into Onset Bay to be blessed for future voyages.

The Onset Bay Association's annual Blessing of the Fleet was held Friday, July 5 and saw over 22 vessels participate.

Pastor Don Bliss led the blessings in an age-old tradition that aims for the protection of a ship and its crew.  Boats of all sizes donned a variety of patriotic decorations as they floated past.

Bliss, a former Wareham resident, said being able to come back to town to perform the blessings helped him connect with those from his past. 

"When it came time for the event I was just tickled," he said.

The community spirit at the event was something Bliss said he really enjoyed seeing.

"It's a great celebration," he said. "I wish that I had a bigger arm so I could reach a little further out onto the boats."

Sheila Reagan from Plymouth grew up in Wareham, and used to spend hours at Onset Beach.  She echoed the community sentiment and said the event brings nostalgia for her.

"It brings back a lot of good memories. The older you get, the less friends you have because they've long since passed. So this is just a good feeling," she said.

As time has ticked on, Reagan said events like The Blessing of the Fleet have gotten lost. 

"It's fun to be here and be around people," she said. "This keeps the kids involved and occupied and gives them memories."

Babies, people dressed as hot dogs, the Statue of Liberty and countless others cruised past spectators on the docks during the event. The Dimares, "A Patriotic Party on the Water," took first place for best dressed boat.

Following the fleet, Executive Director of the Onset Bay Association, Kat Jones, led a foot-parade around the parking lot. She said that having fun matters even in tough political times. 

"You cannot cancel Independence Day despite what's going on in the country," she said. "I feel like it's important to celebrate why we have the Fourth of July."

Jones said that corralling the boats was quite difficult and apologized for any boats that were mispronounced. Besides the hiccups, she said that people had a good time.

"I mean, who doesn't want their boat blessed before the season?" sh