On a beautiful October Tuesday, fourteen Cape Coral Cruise Club boats headed north on the GICW, turned into Charlotte Harbor, then on to the Peace River to Fisherman’s Village Marina. The good member turnout was because this remains one of the Club’s favorite destinations. With mooring assistance from Harbor Master Jim’s helpful crew, boaters completed the always present post cruise boat chores, then relaxed the remainder of the afternoon. The Pre-happy hour time at the Boater’s Lounge produced some groans with the announcement of a trivia quiz on Florida. Prizes were awarded to both the winning and runner-up couples. Happy hour was followed with most everyone’s favorite, heavy hors D’oeuvres. This is the occasion when the first mates out do themselves. The first night is usually an early one, probably because of all the fresh air.
Wednesday started with a midmorning walk through the park along the river in Punta Gorda to the Rte. 41 bridge and back. Appetites having been built, most members took advantage of the fine restaurants at the Fisherman’s Village Shops for lunch. It was then time for a wet “T” shirt contest on the dock behind the boats. Each couple was given a tee shirt and one of the two had to put it on. Seems simple but the shirts had been water soaked, rolled tight, then frozen. Only body heat and muscle power were allowed. Again prizes were awarded to the top two finishers. Their unique means to thaw the shirts – the winners sat on them, used body heat! Dinner was a mini-Oktoberfest prepared by the cruise leaders and helpers with fare including brats, sour kraut, beer-cheese soup, and Black Forrest cake. A few of the night owls finished the day with a rowdy game of “99”.
A breakfast of biscuits with sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, sausage links, fresh fruit and adult beverages started the day on Thursday. The bulk of the day was a “do your own thing” event. Some rode marina courtesy bikes to town, some shopped in the Village, some enjoyed the pool, and some just sat around and told sea stories, a few of which may have been true… The main feature of the evening was the group dinner at the Captain’s Table. Good food and excellent service were enjoyed by the boaters who were joined by ten Club members who arrived by car.
Friday morning saw the flotilla depart the marina heading homeward. Neptune must not have been as pleased with us as he was on our trip to the marina. Winds of 15 to 20 out of the northeast made the seas a bit snotty on Charlotte Harbor, but all arrived safely at their destinations. As usual, another great, safe Cape Coral Cruise Club trip goes into the books.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org Like us on our Facebook page.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club enjoyed the beautiful Naples Boat Club for their September cruise on the 16th, 17th and 18th. Fourteen boats signed up for the cruise but two had to drop out – one for a mechanical issue and one for an emergency home repair issue. This is the third year in a row the September cruise has been to the Naples Boat Club, which speaks volumes about its helpful staff, great amenities and convenient location to Naples shops and restaurants.
The 12 boats that participated were “MOONLIGHTER”, Cruise Leaders Lee & Benda Jetton with members Mike & Brenda Stewart aboard – “PANACEA”, John & Mary Brehm – “Y KNOT”, Phil & Pat Kryger – “WHATEVER”, Jim & Edie Limbright – “SURFACE INTERVAL”, Bruce & Sue Longman – “DESPERADO”, John Lynch & Elise Vinnoy – “BULLFROG”, Mac and Bobbie McEwen – “HAR DEE II”, Hal & Dee Moss – “C R SIDE”, Bob & Carol Peterson – “SEMPER PARATUS”, John & Pati Queen – “SUNKISSED”, Phil & Lyn Quick – and “HAPPY OURS”, Gary & Kathy Taake.
The winds and seas were almost perfect on Tuesday for the cruise down the Gulf of Mexico to Gordon Pass and on to Naples Boat Club. After docking, it was time for enjoying the pool with its waterfall, cards, a game of pool in the beautiful Clubhouse, or just relaxing aboard. At 5:00 pm it was time for happy hour with snacks in the Clubhouse, followed at 6:00 pm by a catered dinner of Chicken Stir Fry with rice, oriental salad, rolls & butter and a variety of different cakes for dessert. After a long cruise from Cape Coral, the catered dinner meant that none of the ladies would have to cook and could join in the fun after docking.
Wednesday was a morning and early afternoon open for shopping, exploring Naples, breakfast or lunch aboard or at a nearby restaurant, enjoying the pool, or games in the Clubhouse. Although there had been some rain, at 2:00 pm the sun came out and everyone met in the swimming pool for a Yellow Rubber Duck Race. First the men, and then the ladies, were divided up into two groups of 6 in the pool. Each person was given a yellow rubber duck. The object of the game was, on a signal, to drop your duck in front of you and propel it to the other side of the pool only by pushing it with your nose or blowing it. After two runoffs, the winners were determined.
The first prize winner for the men was John Queen, who won not a yellow duck but a bottle of Grey Goose, and second place went to Mac McEwen who won, in a Victoria’s Secret bag, not skimpy attire but a key with a small knife hidden inside. On the ladies side, first place went to Edie Limbright, who won, fittingly enough, a bottle of Ugly Duckling wine, and second place went to Carol Peterson who won a pair of scissors. Everyone who participated had a barrel of laughs and were good sports to participate. Prizes were awarded at happy hour.
Following happy hour at 4:30 pm, the entire group, joined by members Steve and Nell Winner who had driven down, walked to downtown Naples to the Mangrove Café for a $35.00 special of 2 dinners with salad, bread, and a bottle of wine. Everyone reported a great meal with fast and efficient service. Hats off to the Mangrove Café for a wonderful dining experience.
Thursday morning was again a free morning and early afternoon to enjoy Naples. Some members enjoyed Tin City, breakfast at the Cove Inn, shopping, games, or playing pool in the Clubhouse. As before, rain was a bit of an issue, but dissipated at 2:00 pm for the second yellow rubber duck contest at the pool. In this contest, no one had to get in the pool, as everyone drew a card with a number on it. Each yellow rubber duck also had a number painted on it matching the numbers drawn. Then, all the numbered ducks were dumped into the pool at the waterfall end and were pushed by wind and current to the other end of the pool. Some ducks floated straight to the other end, some did a U-turn, some floated to the sides and one even went into the pool scupper. Everyone cheered on their duck until winners were declared.
The owner of the winning duck was Bobbie McEwen who won a box of Double Dog Dare wine. The second place duck was owned by Jon Lynch, who won a set of funnels, and the third place duck was owned by Lyn Quick who won a pair of scissors.
At 4:30, happy hour with snacks was held in the clubhouse where the above prizes were awarded. Gary Taake prepared Oysters Rockefeller, and Phil Kryger prepared fresh caught fried Fish Bites to add to the snacks. Then, at 6:00 pm, everyone walked to the on-site Wharf Tavern for a group seafood dinner, highlighted by a $15.99 1 ¼ pound whole steamed Maine lobster dinner with fries and slaw. Once again, the Wharf Tavern made every bib attired member happy with lots of drawn butter to dip juicy lobster into. No one left hungry. Following dinner, the left over cakes were served in the Clubhouse along with a delicious Mango cobbler made by Edie Limbright. Those who still had room for dessert enjoyed the sweet feast.
Friday morning members left in small groups for the trip back to Cape Coral and Fort Myers. Once again, light seas with only occasional periods of scattered rain made for a safe and very comfortable cruise home. Thanks go to everyone who participated in the cruise, as a cruise cannot be successful without members participating. Thanks also go to the Naples Boat Club staff for their courtesy, assistance, and professionalism.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org. Like us on our Facebook page.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club, founded in 1963, is unique among S.W. Florida boat clubs in that it owns a portion of a private island on the Caloosahatchee River east of the Franklin Lock. Over the years a covered pavilion has been built where the members enjoy monthly picnics. The facility also has four docks with both 50amp and 30amp power that can accommodate up to sixteen member boats for a weekend.
CCCC is a group of active cruisers. Monthly cruises are planned for September through June each season. If you have a boat with overnight accommodations, reside in the Cape Coral – Ft. Myers area, and would like to get out on your boat with fellow boating enthusiasts, take a look at the destinations of past CCCC organized cruises.
We visit South Seas Resort and ‘Tween Waters resort on Captiva Island; Pink Shell Resort and Snook Bight Marina on Ft. Myers Beach; Boca Grande Marina, Uncle Henry’s Marina, Burnt Store Marina, and Fisherman’s Village in Charlotte harbor.
Going further north on the GICW we’ve visited both Palm Island Marina and Gasparilla Marina, as well as attractive locations in Sarasota and Longboat Key. There is a 2015 trip in the works for a cruise further north to Tarpon Springs.
Local short cruises include Tarpon Point and Cape Harbour in Cape Coral, and Legacy Harbor in downtown Ft. Myers. Naples is an annual tradition with the Naples Boat Club, City Dock at Crayton Cove, or Pelican Isle Marina as destinations.
Venturing further south the Club has visited Marco Island, Everglades City, Marathon, Key Biscayne and Key West.
Each year an extended cruise is planned. In 2014 that destination was first to the South Georgia Isles and beaches with stops in Stuart, New Smyrna, St Augustine and Fernandina Beach. Other members elected to do the second extended cruise to the Bahamas with stops in Clewiston, West Palm Beach and the Club owned Hidden Island on the Caloosahatchee Waterway.
For those interested in extending their local boating distances, or who may be new to the area and are looking for an active boating group, the Cape Coral Cruise Club will have a booth at the Ft. Myers Boat Show November 13 -16 at the Harborside Event Center & City Yacht Basin. We look forward to talking with you about local boating!
Stop by and meet Club members and a view short video of Club cruise activities, and obtain membership information. Or contact Larry Mitchell, CCCC membership chairman at 239-560-2823. Additional information is posted on the Club website, www.c-c-c-c.org. Also “Like” us on our Facebook page.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club, founded in 1963, is unique among S.W. Florida boat clubs in that it owns a portion of a private island on the Caloosahatchee River east of the Franklin Lock near Alva. Over the years a covered pavilion has been built where the members enjoy monthly picnics, bocce, horseshoes and other relaxing activities.
A major advantage for members is that the Island has ample dockage for member’s boats. Over the years, four docks have been installed on an inside oxbow off the ICW with both 30amp and 50amp electric service. This allows docking for as many as 16 boats up to 45′ in length. Ferry service across the ICW aboard the club’s 24′ pontoon boat is provided for members & guests who drive up for the monthly picnic.
Because the Club is a cruising organization, in addition to the Island picnics, members can participate in monthly cruises to local destinations. Fall 2014 cruises include:
September destination: The Naples Boat Club has become one of the most popular Club cruise destinations. With a first class onsite restaurant, beautiful pool and outstanding docking facilities this cruise is always full. Cruise leaders have been known to plan very interesting and different activities and Naples dining adventures.
October destination: Once again the Club returns to Fisherman’s Village Marina on Charlotte Harbor. With abundant shopping on Fisherman’s pier and the close proximity to activities in downtown Punta Gorda, this is a very well attended cruise.
November destination: For a quiet and laid back cruise the Club returns to ‘Tween Waters on Captiva for the late fall cruise. With fine dining and the beaches of Captiva close by, along with outstanding sunsets, this cruise is always a popular event. Also in November the Club hosts a booth at the Ft. Myers Boat Show. Members are present to answer questions on membership and point out many other fun Club functions.
December: Traditionally no cruise is planned for December as the Club holds a formal “Change of Watch dinner where past Club officers are recognized for their achievements and officers for the coming year are installed. This is the only annual Club “Coat & Tie” event.
Several other destinations, including South Seas Resort, Palm Island, Pink Shell Resort, Legacy Harbor, and Marco Island are in the works for the spring of 2015.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
Nine CCCC members made the trip to Burnt Store Marina for a 3 day cruise beginning June 17. Participating were cruise leaders Jack and Elsie Harris on Running Water, Robert and Carol Peterson on C R Slide, Ted and Beverley Hutson on New Horizons, Jim and Edie Limbright on Never Mind, Phil and Pat Kryger on Y Knot, Hal and Dee Moss on Hardee II, Lee and Brenda Jetton on Moonlighter, and Mack and Bobbie McEwen on Bullfrog with Bruce & Sue Longman arriving on Surface Interval Thursday.
We had perfect weather Tuesday going to Burnt Store with light winds and flats seas. The Marina staff assisted in securing all the boats shortly after arrival. Happy hour started at 5pm. Diane Myers, Sonja Wright, Jon Lynch, & Phil and Lin Quick all drove to the marina for a delightful cheeseburger cookout at the Marina pavilion.
Wednesday was the Bocce ball tournament with Mack McEwen officiating. The winning team was Sonja and Diane & Phil and Pat. Happy hour with heavy hors d’oeuvres concluded the afternoon. This is always a fun part of CCCC cruises as the women come up with some exciting and different appetizers. We had lots of good food followed by a spirited game of “99”. Brenda Butler showed off her quicker than the eye double drawing. A hat full of quarters was won by Phil Kryger.
Thursday was a free day with lots of swimming and game playing. Happy hour started at 5 pm (a few began cooling off sooner) Diane Myers, Sonja Wright, Larry and Ana Maria Mitchell, John and Patti Queen, Larry and Mary Ann Habich, and Pat Evans and her daughter Gina drove up to join in the group dinner at Porto Bello restaurant. The food and service was excellent. Unfortunately the staff ran short of rare prime rib. Yet there were other equally delicious selections from which to choose. Many then adjourned to Y Knot and Moonlighter for an after dinner drink and good conversation.
The trip home on Friday was clear and sunny with a flat Charlotte Harbor. Most of the trawler style boats left at the crack of dawn, while others slept in choosing to depart for home later in the morning. This was the last CCCC monthly cruise for the spring as many members go north for the summer and, due to the heat, the Club suspends organized cruises until September. Another successful CCCC boating event logged.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
On Monday the 19th of May 2014 at 8:00 am six boats from the Cape Coral Cruise Club set out on an adventure to the Out Islands of the Bahamas particularly on this trip, the Exumas. Those traveling are as follows: Len and Sharon Palmisano on “Sharon Ann” with guests, Greg and Bev; Kenneth and Sandra Starnes on “Pop’s Place”; Phil and Lyn Quick on “Sunkissed”; Rich and Robyn McGloin on “Robyn M”; Phil and Pat Kryger on ”Y Knot”; with Gary and Kathy Taake on “Happy Ours”. We all met at marker 92 off Tarpon Point Marina to head south for the beginning of our three week journey. Weather forecast was 10-15 knot winds with gusts up to 20 out of the east, so our “unofficial leaders”, Len and Sharon, led us down the Gulf of Mexico hugging the shore to give us a nice smooth ride to Marathon Key.
Thank the boat gods as the wind stayed out of the east. Well, there isn’t much close shore after Cape Sable, so it got-bouncy halfway down and continued choppy until we reached Marathon. Sunkissed and Pop’s Place had to go an extra few miles to get to the center span of the seven mile bridge giving us the proper height clearance. We arrived at the Marathon Marina fuel dock at 3:15 pm, adding 115 miles to our log. After fueling up we left at 3:40, to head up to Hawk’s Cay Resort and Marina. As expected the winds were due east, and all headed straight into the thumpers, three to four footers with an occasional five or six thrown in. Finally at 5:00 pm we arrived at our first destination “Hawk’s Cay” adding 28 more miles to our log.
It was pretty unanimous everyone wanted to stay an extra day to relax and Anticipate smaller seas for the crossing to the Bahamas. Most of us relaxed poolside while others did their own thing just chilling out. On Wednesday, May 21, we left Marathon at 8:00 am pushing into choppy seas, however, not as bad as Monday, but still slowed us down pretty well. At 1:00 pm we arrived at Miami fuel docks and at 1:45 we all docked at the Miamarina city docks. Everyone got their hoses out for our first fresh water wash down. At 6:30 that evening we had a group dinner at Bubba Gumps restaurant, then strolled the promenade and window shopped amongst the many stores.
The next day, Thursday May 21, the seas had laid down and were fairly small all the way across the Gulf Stream, putting us at Chub Cay at 1:30pm, adding 124 nautical miles. Chub Cay is a beautiful island. On the mend, we were told, with new owners spending millions of dollars, with floating concrete docks and a new clubhouse being built. There is a very nice infinity edge pool spilling into the crystal blue waters. Everyone showed up poolside for happy hour and to watch a phenomenal sunset.
Sunkissed was the only boat to buy fuel at Chub Cay, the owner concerned she would not have sufficient fuel on board to make it to Nassau, our next stop. With a low, low price of $6.80 per gallon, we only took on 100 gallons. After a leisurely Friday morning breakfast on we headed out at 9:40 am to beautifully calm seas on our way to Nassau. We entered the harbor at 11:40 am putting an additional 37.2 nautical miles under our boat, having taken in many sites along the way. After fueling up at a reasonable $5.42 per gallon, we tied up for our last wash down for a while. The girls went grocery shopping for some needed supplies while the guys did their chores and had a drink or three. At 2:45 pm, a very anxious Kenneth met his bride who flew in from Arkansas to be his first mate for the duration of the trip. Some stayed on board and cooked their own dinner while the Quicks, Taakes, McGloins and Krygers went to the Poop Deck restaurant for a very good meal.
On Saturday, May 24 at 10:00 am we left Nassau for the beautiful Warderick Wells Land and Sea Park, arriving at 1:10 pm. WOW, Tahiti, all over again. The hues of blue were mind blowing, the sand white and fine. We were moored here for 2 nights with everyone using their dinghies to do some swimming and snorkeling along with some exploring. Later in the day Bob and Bonnie Martin on “Bonaventure” caught up with us after having some problems with their boat. Also on board were Ron and Wendy, their daughter and son in law. They came just in time for Happy Hour on the beach. Everyone retired to their boats for dinner and relaxation. The next morning, Sunday, May 25, we awoke again to the beauty of Mother Nature. Everyone was doing their own thing, snorkeling, swimming or putting around in their dinks, crisscrossing each other. Gen sets ran day and night for all the comforts of home.
The next morning, Monday, May 26, at 10:00 am we all left for a really short ride of 20 nautical miles, to Staniel Cay Yacht Club (sic), but surprising to me, the place turned out to be super cool. Mega yachts were anchored outside, smaller ones tied up amongst us. As soon as we were all secured we saw large nurse sharks swimming around the docks and under our boats. Most of us went to the onsite restaurant for a great lunch followed by an afternoon lounging by the pool. By dinner time, which some could not even think about because of the large portions at lunch, it was time for a relaxing cocktail or two poolside, followed by a game of “99” with the Quicks, Krygers and Taakes. Then an early retirement so as to wake early enough for low tide to allow room to slide under the cave at Thunderball Grotto. Can’t wait.
True confession time. While I was breaking down my dinghy at the end of that day, the outboard slipped from my hands and dropped in about 20 feet of water. Stupid yes, dumb no; I had enough sense to have a line tied to it. After retrieving it, I rinsed it and put it away totally disgusted. I don’t like dinghies and have sworn off them forever.
Next day, Friday May 28, after a short ride, we arrived at Compass Cay, again having beautiful sea conditions. We pulled in to a mecca of yachts, sport Fish yachts and a few big center consoles. Compass Cay Marina is bare bones marina, with not much to do unless you want to take a little hike to the beautiful crescent beach with crystal clear water that is about 1/2 mile long. Or you may want to test your bravery and get in the water to pet the many nurse sharks, which many of us did. We have the pictures. The only issue we had was after having had the reservations for months, three of the boats had to tie up at a dock with no power. Again the gensets ran for 48 hours maintaining inside comfort. On our second night at Compass we had a pot luck dinner under the dock pavilion. All of our great cooks did a mighty fine job. This club never goes hungry.
The next day, Friday May 30, we entered the most anticipated destination (by me), Highbourne Cay. Did I say WOW, a gorgeous marina with numerous tiki huts. A real neat open air restaurant on the side of a small mountain overlooking the whitest sand and bluest water you would ever want to see. Fabulous docks, more friendly sharks albeit one huge bull shark that showed up from time to time. Six guys along with Sharon Palmisano chartered a boat with captain and first mate for our fishing expedition. We were getting a little jealous seeing all the Mahi being caught and cleaned here at the marina. We dropped our lines and immediately had four hits but only brought in one. A few minutes later, three strikes, one brought in. Next strike was this writers turn and a mackerel was landed. All told, four Mahi and one mackerel boated. Definitely not bad for three hours. Guess what we had for dinner that night? Wrong ….. We had reservations at the hilltop restaurant. However, everyone received a huge bag of Mahi which was eaten the next night and truly appreciated.
Later that same day three locals came in with a boat load of fresh conch, cleaning and selling it. My remembrance of island conch salad flashed before me and of course, we had to have some. Rephil and Gary wanted to blow their horns so they each got a conch shell to take home. In my opinion, this is a place we could have stayed for a week. Tomorrow, it is back to the not so calm Nassau Harbour Club Marina to fuel, wash down and fill up with water. Sunday, June 1, was just a short run to Nassau with 15 knot winds. Protection from the island chain gave us a very favorable ride. Boats were cleaned. Len and Sharon’s guests, Greg and Bev disembarked to catch a plane back to reality and Ken and Sandra’s guests, Josh and Ashley. Arrived for the remainder of the trip, by chance, just in time for happy hour. After an hour of chopping the store bought produce, the conch was ready to marinate. Piled on top of saltines everyone seemed to enjoy the conch salad along with Gary’s famous bacon wrapped smoked oysters. Then off to do your own thing for dinner.
At about 9:00pm a loud boom was heard. We gathered outside and were entertained by a fabulous fireworks display right in the middle of the channel. No one knew what the occasion was so we decided it was the islander’s appreciation of the CCCC visit to the island. Tomorrow to Paradise Islands Atlantis, hopefully they will let us in early.
On Monday, June 2, we eagerly awaited our turn to be called into the inlet to Paradise Island. By around noon, we were all tied up, in line, right by one of the many pools and a harbor side restaurant. A few of us had lunch there which was pizza and huge burgers, then everyone anxiously scuttled off to explore the many sites and attractions. This place has grown immensely since our last visit here with so much more to do and see. There were many huge mega yachts to be seen also. You really need good shoes and feet to see only a portion of what is offered. The next morning everyone went in different directions and rarely would you run into one of your cruising friends. Some went to the water park, some went sightseeing, some went to the pool and some found a nice spot to people watch. The forecast for tomorrow is bumpy seas, however, the plan is to leave right after check out around 8:00 am and head to Bimini.
Wednesday, June 4, We arrived at Bimini at 1:35 pm after a morning departure time of 7:50 am, with seas not bad at all. Everyone relaxed, pooled it or did some sightseeing. Dinner time had everyone at The Big Game Club. It seemed most of us wanted the penne pasta Alf redo with shrimp and lobster. However, they didn’t have any lobster and replaced it with conch and the shrimp count was anywhere from two to four, which was a little disappointing but the pasta and sauce was delicious.
We all retired early anticipating the long haul to Marathon in the morning. Thursday, June 5, All seven boats departed Bimini around 7:30 am heading to Miami and then South fearing for rough seas. They say” there is nothing to fear but fear itself’. The quote held true, a little bumpy, but not bad at all. The group arrived at Marathon Marina at 2:00 pm, a long day of 128 nautical miles. Our last happy hour on “Sharon Ann”. Then we had a delightful dinner at the marina restaurant. Cheers and tears as this was the last night of a truly great experience. Anxiety set in as people began leaving at 7:00 am with Sunkissed and Sharon Ann pulling out at 7:45am into unbelievably calm seas. The entire trip up the Gulf of Mexico was as flat as your swimming pool… Again the sea gods overall saw fit to give us a great experience the entire time. We arrived and were secured at our dock at exactly 2:00 pm. We give Len and Sharon Palmisano a big thank you for making all the arrangements and keeping up with all the reservations through the entire trip. It all seemed seamless. Also a big thank you to the mechanical wizards for an amazing, no problem trip for all seven boats.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
A flotilla of 9 boats set off on Tuesday May 20th heading north on the Gulf ICW with beautiful clear skies and calm seas that lasted for the entire cruise. Lead by Jon Lynch on Desperado, cruising members included Lee & Brenda Jetton on Moonlighter, Jim and Edie Limbright on Nevermind, Ted and Beverly Hutson on New Horizons, John and Mary Brehm on Panacea, Hal and Dee Moss on HarDee II, Larry and Mary Ann Habich on Knot Again, Mark and Sue Thompson on KDH, as well as first timers Bob & Carol Peterson on CRSide. Joining the group via auto were Chuck Pollack and Susan Herzog. Mac and Bobbie McEwen aboard Bullfrog had boat issues, cancelled late and were sorely missed.
As we passed Boca Grande Pass Tuesday morning, a clear teal blue and green sea greeted us boding well for the days to come. Approaching Gasparilla Bridge, pods of porpoise were playing alongside. We arrived at Palm Island Marina at 11:00 AM and per their usual great service, all arrivals were docked and all hooked up by 11:15 AM. The entire crew of all nine boats enjoyed each other’s company during lunch at Johnny Leverock’s including chowing down on tender calamari, clam chowder, salmon BLTs and Black & Blue salads, including cool beverages. Relaxing in and by the pool dominated the activities for the afternoon. This facility is famous for its great swimming pool.
Everyone enjoyed the pool and wished there were more club members present to enjoy the sunny weather and 90 degree water. The hot tub hosted a gaggle of ladies plus Lee Jetton (he was in heaven). Mark Thompson commented that Lee seemed to be the “thorn among the roses”. Happy hour quickly crept up and everyone feasted on a dazzling display of culinary expertise supplied by our ladies in the form of delicious heavy hors d’oeuvres polished off by German chocolate cake and carrot cake. As the sun went down, the party continued poolside well into the evening.
On Wednesday morning the group missed Mac & Bobbie’s famous chipped beef breakfast, however, the group quickly diverted to coffee cake and hot java. Later in the morning Brenda Butler decided to launch her new dink from the top of Moonlighter and received a plethora of advice from the “peanut gallery” with assistance from several pairs of hands. Later on a few members decided to ride the marina water shuttle to Rum Bay for lunch.
Sue Thompson brought out a super brain teaser puzzle that clearly confirmed that no one on our cruise will be inducted to MENSA any time soon. A wicked game of Wizard ensued with a couple of unexpected winners. A hamburger cookout finished out the evening. No one followed the traditional wait time of at least ½ hour before returning to the pool.
On Thursday, groups explored the beaches, took leisurely walks and played more cards. Dinner at Leverock’s for the entire group was superb. The team at Jonny Leverock’s provided a superb dinner of three select entrees, fine sides and as usual, very timely service – a deadly combination!
Friday morning came only too soon and by 8:30 am most boats had departed southbound for various home ports in the Cape Coral – Ft. Myers vicinity. This is the next to last cruise for the spring. Attending members hope all those traveling north for the summer had a safe trip. We will miss you and look forward to your fall return for continued cruising with the Club.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations and reside in the Cape Coral / Ft. Myers area. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of recent Club activities and read additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
“Short” “No Frills” Cruise to Tween Waters Resort Marina Proves Popular
With a long cruise to the Golden Isles of Georgia scheduled in April, the Cape Coral Cruise Club offered a “short” cruise to Captiva Island’s Tween Waters Resort Marina Wednesday, April 16th through Friday, April 18th. Although 13 boats signed up to participate, only 7 made the cruise due to boat problems, illness or other unforeseen events. The 7 boats were “Sunkissed”, Phil & Lyn Quick; “K D J”, Mark & Sue Thompson; “Desperado”, Jon Lynch & Elise Vannoy; “Knot Again”, Larry & Mary Ann Habich; “New Horizons”, Ted & Beverley Hutson; “Jean Mary III”, Jeanie Douglass with son Peter and his wife Patti; and “Moonlighter”, Lee & Brenda Jetton with guests Gary & Danee Halford. Joining the cruise by car were Chuck Pollack & Sue Herzog, Joan Prosser, Joan Raymond, and Sonja Wright.
Billed as a “no frills” cruise, the only fee for the cruise was a tip for the dockhands. A dry erasure white board was installed where anyone could post an activity, and those who wished to join in could do so. Since there was no cooking demands on the ladies, they enjoyed being able to join in with the men at any time.
Activities posted on the white board included swimming or hot-tubbing, lunch pool-side, dominoes, cards, a walk to town for ice cream, beach going, a walk to the Green Flash restaurant for dinner, and cocktails on the dock. Although rain, high wind and thunderstorms had been predicted, the cruise enjoyed mostly sunny weather and light winds both cruising to and from Tween Waters.
Cruise Leader Brenda Butler Jetton had announced that as a gesture of good will, she would donate popcorn at happy hour, but that it would be limited to 2 kernels per person per day. At cocktail hour on the second day, some participants complained that they had not been given the promised popcorn, so Brenda produced 7 zip lock bags filled with 12 kernels (2 per person per day) for each boat. Each boat’s name was written on the zip lock bag. After a good laugh, big bowls of both cheese popcorn and kettle corn were set out for consumption.
On Friday, a group dinner was held at the on-site Crows Nest restaurant with 20 in attendance. After a rocky start (an incorrect group menu was presented without the promised Teriyaki Grilled Salmon) correct copies were presented and a delicious meal was then enjoyed by all.
As strong winds were predicted for later on Saturday, most boats left early and were home before the wind and waters kicked up. All who participated agreed that a “no frills” cruise can be a lot of fun, hope it will be repeated in the future, and thank Brenda Butler for organizing a great “un-organized” cruise.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of Club activities and review additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
On April 21 three boats from the Cape Coral Cruise Club left Cape Coral northbound to the “Golden Isles” of Georgia. These were boats that cruised under 20 knots. The following day three more boats, cruising in excess of 20 knots left the Cape Coral area at 8am so all could arrive at Sunset Bay Marina in Stuart that evening. The group traveled east on the Caloosahatchee River, across Lake Okeechobee and down the St Lucie Canal, headed for the Atlantic Intra Coastal Waterway. The weather was perfect and sunny with barely a ripple on the lake. After fueling and cleaning the boats, the cruisers met aboard the Sharon Ann, owned by Len and Sharon Palmisano for Happy Hour. Following Happy Hour most went to the Sailors Return restaurant at the marina for dinner.
The next morning the boats got off to another early start, again traveling in two groups, depending on the speed of the boats. The weather was ideal. The destination was New Smyrna Marina in New Smyrna Beach. The cruisers traveled in the Intra Coastal Waterway since there is good water depth, and few slow zones in this section. Upon arrival crews washed salt from their boats, fueled as needed prior to Happy Hour aboard Sharon Ann. Fueling at New Smyrna Marina is available at each slip for added boater convenience. Everyone dined on site at the Outriggers Tiki Bar.
Continuing north from New Smyrna the following morning boaters began the last day of serious, long day runs before starting a more leisurely cruise schedule. The destination was St. Augustine Municipal Marina. Five boats elected to venture out on the Atlantic Ocean via the Ponce De Leon inlet at New Smyrna since the weather was, again, perfect and outside the ocean was flat. The Intra Coastal Waterway is slower and there are several shallow water concerns between New Smyrna and St Augustine. Traveling “outside” also allowed the boats to arrive at the marina at slack water (no tidal currents). That is important because strong tidal currents can make docking difficult. Mark and Kate Lewis on MarKate decided to travel inside because they had never traveled this section of the Intra Coastal. The routine of cleaning and fueling the boats was followed by a change in routine. Happy Hour was not cancelled. Instead it was held aboard Pop’s Place, a Grand Banks owned by Kenneth and Sandra Starnes. This was followed by a roast beef dinner prepared by Sharon Palmisano.
Sightseeing was the activity of choice the next day since no travel was planned. The marina is in the historic district of St. Augustine giving the club members a wide choice of activities. The weather was again outstanding. Phil and Pat Kryger owners of Y Knot climbed the St Augustine lighthouse. Many of the couples toured the historic district on the Red Train. Rich and Robyn McGloin of the Robyn M enjoyed the architecture at Flagler College. Dinner that evening was “on your own” with most of the club members opting to eat on their boat.
The following day saw the group departing St. Augustine, headed to Golden Isles Marina at St Simons Island, Georgia. The group again traveled “outside” to avoid going through some shallow areas, as well as some military restricted areas of the Intra Coastal Waterway including a seven mile “slow” zone north of St. Augustine. The weather was excellent again.
The cruisers made their way to the Marina by entering St. Simons Sound inlet and following the channel markers up the Frederica River to the Marina. Again, the boats were washed and fueled in the slips. Those needing to replenish ship stores made a trip to the supermarket using the marina courtesy car. That evening Happy Hour was held at the Marina pavilion followed by a grill out of Italian sausage, hamburgers and hot dogs.
The next day a trolley tour of St Simons Island was taken by all the cruisers, as this was one our destinations. The tour company allowed the group to stay in “downtown St. Simons” for a couple of hours at the conclusion of the tour to shop and take advantage of the restaurants before returning them to the marina. The afternoon was free to explore in more detail places seen on the trolley tour, perform routine boat maintenance, or do as Steve and Nell Winner of Our Idea did, and use the courtesy car to go to the supermarket. The evening Happy Hour was again on the Sharon Ann followed by a group dinner at the Coastal Kitchen Restaurant, which is located at the marina.
Early up and out was the order of the day the following morning. Not because of the distance to Jekyll Island, but to get through Jekyll Creek before low tide. The creek only carries about 3 1/2 feet of water at mean low water, and while most of the boats on the trip have a draft of 4 feet or better, this is very important. Robyn M was the only boat leaving later in the morning since they needed less water than the other boats. Jekyll Harbor Marina was able to accommodate the boats that morning despite an early morning arrival. The distance traveled was only about 10 miles so washing and fueling was not necessary. The early arrival allowed the cruisers to begin exploring the island using courtesy bicycles provided by the marina. A manatee provided the group with additional entertainment by frequenting the marina. Happy Hour was again held aboard the Sharon Ann that evening, with the men gathering to tell each other stories. The women were playing dominos on the Y Knot and having a “happy hour” of their own. Dinner was “on your own”. Most ate on their boat with several Capt’s preparing dinner for their ladies.
The next day began with a dinghy race between MarKate and Pop’s Place. The name of the loser will not be reported to spare his feelings. Transportation to the historic district was arranged by the marina. Club members were able to explore the historic Jekyll Island Club, bordered by the former estates of long ago summer residents such as Joseph Pulitzer, J.P. Morgan, W.K. Vanderbilt, and Marshall Field, as well as visit the many shops and restaurants in the district. Several of the group took a horse drawn carriage tour of the area while others visited the turtle rehab center. The afternoon was free for the cruisers to explore more of the island, work on their boat or just take it easy. Happy Hour that evening was on Pop’s Place followed by a cook out of hot dogs and hamburgers provided by the marina.
Travel the following morning was to be north to Cumberland Island. The perfect weather, however, was about to end. The group decided to skip Cumberland Island and go direct to Fernandina Beach Marina. This provided the cruisers an extra day to travel home, which the captains thought might be necessary because of a very negative weather forecast of rain and high winds. During the trip to Fernandina cruisers saw wild horses grazing near the beach along the shore of Cumberland Island as well as two submarines in the Kings Bay naval base. The afternoon was spent touring Amelia Island with Happy Hour that evening on the Sharon Ann, followed bydinner at Bret’s Waterway Cafe, located at the marina.
The following morning the cruisers began the southbound trip home. MarKate and Our Idea decided to stay at Fernandina Beach an extra night and then slowly make their way home. The remaining boats left and headed for the New Smyrna Marina, running “outside” until St Augustine when seas became rough. They continued southbound on the Intra Coastal for the remainder of the trip. The next day they continued inside arriving at Sunset Bay Marina in Stuart. That section for the trip was on the Intra Coastal Waterway with the group staying just ahead of the serious storm front that blew in after all were safely secured at the marina.
The third day had the group west bound across Lake “O” returning to the Cape Coral area. This proved to be a most eventful day. More storms, that the cruisers were trying to avoid, finally caught up while they were on the river. All experienced lightning, thunder, wind, and heavy rain. In light of these poor visibility conditions, Sharon Ann touched bottom and required an assist from Sea Tow to be pulled off a mud bank. In the end everyone returned home safely with no major problems. Overall, this was a very fun filled and adventurous cruise hosted by Len and Sharon Palmisano.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of Club activities and review additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
The cruise to Legacy Harbour Marina was fully attended with 15 boats cruising to and four resident boats participating. Harbormaster Eric Ravenschlag promised us 15 slips and he came through, and the marina was totally filled! While most people ate on their boat or walked downtown the first night, several of us tried out the little restaurant across from Joe’s Crab Shack. We had to stand on our burgers to get them thin enough to bite into!
Tuesday night saw cocktails at the chickee hut, followed by heavy hors d’oeuvres provided by the cruisers. Cruise leaders Mike and Brenda Stewart passed out cruise folders to those who missed the membership meeting and briefed everyone on the relaxed schedule for the cruise. No competing with the event packed cruise last month! The cruise leaders spent their time after hors d’oeuvres preparing fruit for breakfast Wednesday.
Chef Mike cooked up a breakfast of scrambled eggs with ham bits and cheese. Fresh fruit and croissants with butter filled out the meal. Most people then scattered to the winds in the downtown Ft. Myers area getting exercise, buying out the specialty shops and enjoying the vast array of lunch venues available. Others played cards in the room supplied by the marina.
It was Mike’s turn again Wednesday night as he barbecued 30 pounds of pork loin. Brenda brought out her delicious pasta salad, and for other tastes, the famous Club recipe coleslaw. Everyone got to choose the size/cut of loin they desired, accompanied by Brenda’s homemade applesauce, followed by several desserts provided by the ladies. Dinner was held at the chickee hut, but the food was on Lady Blue and the barbecues in front of the marina office.
Thanks to an army of the ladies the prepared meal was moved to the waiting ravenous club members at the hut. We had Ted and Beverly Hutson, Chuck Pollack and Sue Herzog, Dianne Myers, Jeannie Douglass’s grandson and two Limbright guests in attendance also. After dinner several of the crews headed downtown to listen to the harbormaster’s wife who was singing “torch songs” with her band.
Thursday morning breakfast leftovers were offered up to those desiring a bit to eat before getting their morning walk out of the way. The rest of the day was whatever cruisers desired to do. Many of the ladies duked it out again at the card tables. Others headed downtown again to try different stores and restaurants and that devilish purveyor of dietary supplements, Bennett’s Donuts!
Thursday at “3:27pm” a name christening was held by Phil and Lyn Quick on the dock behind their new 44 ft. fly bridge Sea Ray. After the champagne, everyone headed to cocktails and hors d’oeuvres hosted by Paul and Stephanie Carrico. The Marina, as thanks for our patronage, paid for the eats! NICE! We all then walked next door to Joe’s Crab Shack where they seated and served some 40 of us in grand style. The steam pots seemed to be the most popular menu items with steaks, ribs and stuffed shrimp in the running. The restaurant can satisfy most palates with their extensive menu.
Friday saw the Carrico’s heading out on their Great Loop adventure. They were already underway by the time the rest of us got around to slipping lines and returning to home ports. Legacy Harbour Marina is a nice place to visit, and nobody seemed in a big hurry to leave.
Thanks to everyone who participated and thanks to the marina staff who took care of all our needs quickly and with a smile. It was a good event.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is open to new members who own a boat with overnight accommodations. For membership information please contact Larry Mitchell at 239-560-2823. View a short picture video of Club activities and review additional Club information on its website, www.c-c-c-c.org.
A flotilla of 9 boats set off on Tuesday May 20th heading north on the Gulf ICW with beautiful clear skies and calm seas that lasted for the entire cruise. Lead by Jon Lynch on Desperado, cruising members included Lee & Brenda Jetton on Moonlighter, Jim and Edie Limbright on Nevermind, Ted and Beverly Hutson on New Horizons, John and Mary Brehm on Panacea, Hal and Dee Moss on HarDee II, Larry and Mary Ann Habich on Knot Again, Mark and Sue Thompson on KDH, as well as first timers Bob & Carol Peterson on CRSide. Joining the group via auto were Chuck Pollack and Susan Herzog. Mac and Bobbie McEwen aboard Bullfrog had boat issues, cancelled late and were sorely missed.
