HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia government says continued problems with the steering system on the restored Bluenose II mean the famed schooner will need a test drive ahead of sea trials.
Tony Ince, minister of communities, culture and heritage says while the project is already late the government isn't willing to compromise on safety and quality.
Ince's department says the test drive in Lunenburg harbour is dependent on the weather and is scheduled to take place in the next few weeks.
An update on the status of the vessel will be provided after the test.
The restoration of the schooner has been plagued by delays and is over budget at an estimated $16.7 million.
The vessel was supposed to return to regular sailing in the summer of 2012 after an extensive two-year rebuild.
In January, Premier Stephen McNeil said his government's goal was to have the boat back in the water in the spring.
