Two tugboats took The Protector away from Kirkland’s waterfront where it had served as a breakwater for the Kirkland Yacht Club since 1997. The former research vessel was considered an eyesore to many as it blocked their views of Lake Washington. According to the narrator on our recent Argosy cruise the marina owner was unable to get permission from the city to build a permanent breakwater so The Protector was brought in as a solution and constant reminder. Now the marina will be rebuilt and a breakwater is in the plan. The Protector is off to Barnacle Point Shipyard in Ballard for repairs.