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.
Pink Shell Resort Marina on Fort Myers Beach was the February destination for 18 Cape Coral Cruise Club boats. Pink Shell, with its floating docks, white sandy beach, three heated pools, spa, restaurants and attentive staff, proved once again to be a great place for a monthly cruise.
Boats participating were “Happy Ours”, Cruise Leaders Gary & Kathy Taake; “Sunkissed”, Phil & Lyn Quick; “Sharon Ann”, Sharon & Len Palmisano; “Moonlighter”, Lee & Brenda Jetton; “Bow’t Time”, Terry & Laurie Carlson; “Lady Blue”, Mike & Brenda Stewart; “KDJ”, Mark & Sue Thompson; “Y Knot”, Phil & Pat Kryger; Hardee II”, Hal & Dee Moss; “Lady Mar”, Rusty & Marlene Glover; “Knot Again”, Larry & Mary Ann Habich; “Desperado”, Jon Lynch & Debbie Schwab; “Semper Paratus”, John & Pati Queen; “New Horizons”, Ted & Beverley Hutson; “Robyn M”, Rich & Robin McGloin; and “Daisy May”, Bob & Bonnie Martin. Also joining the group were prospective members Bob & Carol Peterson aboard “C R Side” & Paul & Stephanie Carrico aboard “Infinite Sea”, both boats completing their shake-down cruise.
Arriving at the Marina, members were given electronic arm bands that provided access to all the Resort’s amenities. Then, at 4:30, members met on the marina deck for cocktails and light snacks, before moving to a meeting room at 6:00 for a Pot Luck Picnic. Cruise Leaders Gary & Kathy Taake had prepared large pots of Pork Ribs and Smoked Turkey, and others provided side dishes and desserts, so it was an eat-all-you-can-hold feast.
After dinner, members were split into 2 teams, each with a “Brenda” Captain (Jetton & Stewart). Captains selected team members to participate in a series of eight “A Minute to Win It” games. Roars of laughter erupted during every game, with contestants trying hard to win in a one-on-one contest. There was the “Nose Dive” game where both contestants stick their nose in a pile of Vaseline, then pick up a cotton ball with their nose and deposit them in a bowl of water, a “Dizzy Mummy” game where one contestant turns in circles while being wrapped in toilet paper, and 6 other games. Each team won 3, so there was a final tie-breaker for the 2 captains.
Each Brenda was given a pair of panty hose with a penny in each toe. The ladies had to slip a panty hose leg over each arm and extract the pennies without crossing their arms or using hands on the opposite leg. After wild gyrations, Brenda Jetton was the first to extract the 2 pennies, so her team was declared the winner. Prizes were $100,000… (Small candy bars called “Hundred Grand”) for winning team members and “dum-dum lollipops” for the losers. Every contestant was a very good sport, and our thanks go to them for participating. Lots of laughs!
The second day began with a hot breakfast of scrambled eggs with bits of prime rib mixed in, fresh fruit, and assorted breakfast pastries prepared by the Cruise Leaders. Bloody Marys were also available to wake up the sleepy heads. The afternoon was free for members to go to the beach, swim in the heated pools, shop, play games, dink ride, or ride the trolley to lunch. At 4:30, happy hour began on the marina deck with Mai Tai’s provided by the cruise leaders, followed by a catered private dinner buffet poolside, overlooking the Gulf of Mexico. Joining the group by car for the dinner were members Bob Martin, Jeanie Douglass, Joan Prosser, Joan Raymond, Bruce & Sue Longman, Mary & John Brehm, Chuck Pollack & Sue Herzog, and Larry & Ana Maria Mitchell. Everyone enjoyed a great meal in a wonderful setting.
The third day began with another breakfast of French Texas Toast, fresh fruit and pastries. Then it was once again a choice of activities and a lunch on your own. At 4:30, members gathered at Hal & Dee Moss’s boat, “Hardee II” for a new boat name christening. Cups of champagne were provided by Hal & Dee to toast the removal of the old name and the unveiling of the new name. All who attended enjoyed the ceremony and wished them good luck on their new boat. Happy hour on the marina deck took place before “dinner on your own”.
The next morning boaters departed with fond memories and full stomachs following this fun-filled cruise. Thanks go to Dave O’Connor, dock master, and his great crew. And special thanks go to Gary & Kathy Taake for putting on a wonderful cruise. Their planning and special touches made this a cruise to remember.
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.
South Seas Resort on Captiva Island was the January destination of the Cape Coral Cruise Club. Always a popular location, eighteen boats signed up for the cruise, however, illness or mechanical issues left eight boats unable to participate. The ten boats that made the cruise were MOONLIGHTER, Lee & Brenda Jetton – BOW’T TIME, Terry & Laurie Carlson – Y KNOT, Phil & Pat Kryger – MARKATE, Mark & Kate Lewis – DESPERADO, John Lynch & Debbie Schwab – DAISY MAE, Bob & Bonnie Martin – SHARON ANN, Len & Sharon Palmisano – SUNKISSED, cruise leaders Phil & Lyn Quick along with Phil’s brother Lee – HAPPY OURS, Gary & Kathy Taake, and STILL CRAZY, Jeff & Joanne Zeimer.
Unusually cool weather limited pool activities, so the first night’s activities began with cocktails and snacks in the Captains Lounge, where the group was joined by members Rusty & Marlene Glover who had rented a condo at the resort, along with John & Pati Queen and Rich & Robyn McGloin who had driven. This was followed by a resort trolley ride to Doc Fords for 6:00 pm dinner. After great meals and fine libations, the group trolleyed back to the resort marina for conversation and games.
The second day at South Seas began with a marvelous pancake and scrambled eggs breakfast in the Chart Room prepared by Susan Herzog and Mary Ann Habich. No one left hungry. A number of the ladies then played cards in the Chart Room while the men explored the resort or fished off the fishing pier. Competing with a large group of aggressive pelicans for the fish, several men caught a number of keepers even with the cold water and gusty winds. One group rode the trolley to the shopping center, and another group walked to lunch.
After cocktails at 4:30, a dinner of grilled pork tenderloin (expertly grilled by Phil & Lee Quick) was offered at 6:00 along with an abundance of side dishes and desserts prepared by the ladies. Here the group was joined by members Larry & Mary Ann Habich, Hal & Dee Moss, Mark & Sue Thompson and Sue Herzog who had driven to the resort. After this “feast”, a trivia contest was held. A prize was given for the highest score with Sharon & Len Palmisano winning a portable charcoal Barbeque grill. Another prize for the lowest score was won by Jeff & Joanne Zeimer, a 3-pack of LED flashlights. There were lots of laughs with some of the incorrect answers, including one by Gary & Kathy Taake who stated that one of the Triple Crown winning horses was “Trigger”. The night concluded with ten people playing “99”, and Lyn Quick winning the pot. The chilly night made the pleasant hum of boat heaters necessary.
The final day began with a light continental breakfast of pastries and fruit in the Chart Room. Then it was off for shopping, fishing, biking, or exploring, while a number of ladies concluded a game of Mexican Train Dominoes, with Brenda Jetton winning the pot. Several of the men had a great day fishing with Phil Kryger, Gary Taake and Bob Martin filling a large bucket with fresh fish. Two groups rode the trolley and then walked to the Green Flash for a late lunch or early dinner.
After cocktails in the Chart Room, left-overs from the Grilled Pork Dinner were served and again, no one left hungry. A few then went for ice cream at “Scoops & Slices” before retiring for the night.
Saturday morning, the group departed for home with fond memories of South Seas Resort. Special thanks go to Phil & Lyn Quick for their efforts in planning a great cruise, and to Harbormaster Charles Martz and his knowledgeable and courteous crew who made our stay so enjoyable. You can be sure South Seas Resort will be a club destination in the near future.
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.
Sunday – I got up early, got the coffee going and enjoyed a most pleasant, quiet, breezy morning topsides finishing up this log. It was moving day, back to the states. It was also clean up day and there was a laundry list of items Dave had drafted that needed to be taken care of for the next round of folks using the boat. The goal is to leave the boat clean as a whistle, with no remnants from the past users, including personal effects, food, etc. The Squirrel took on the job of cleaning the top sides, and Em was a maniac, cleaning the boat’s interior. Dave kept assigning me responsibilities from the list. Fortunately my incredible mechanical talents (right), along with the longest arms of anyone on board, made me the optimum candidate to bail the water from around the bow thruster buried deep in the anchor locker. I also filled up both water tanks, which took forever. Dave had lots of little, mechanical chores which I enjoyed doing, being Mr. Fixit at home prepared me for which end of the screw driver to use.
We finally got everything done, offloading all of our gear and dive equipment onto the dock, then took showers. I was aghast at the amount of gear sitting on the dock and wondered how we would get it all into the airplane. I swear there was even more stuff than we had before, in part because we were bringing some things back we didn’t bring when we came over. I was hoping it would be an even trade out with the beer, liquor, and groceries but was further horrified when we loaded it into the taxi.
Amazingly enough we got it all into the plane, again. Fortunately The Squirrel is one of the best pilots I have ever flown with and on the top of his game. With such a big load it was full throttle, full flaps, and a few Hail Mary’s and we were off the ground headed back to Naples. It was a relatively uneventful flight, my favorite kind. We landed, unloaded, then scattered to our various directions.
I enjoyed the adventure, and I am sure Dwight did too. There is no better feeling than to be completely exhausted; smiling inside with the memories of a wonderful time; possessing a cooler with fresh tuna, snapper, and conch; and future stories to tell. It was not unlike the gazillion boat races I shared with my Dad. I think he would have enjoyed the ride, and I hope he did, a least in spirit. I always loved when the sailing crew was headed off his boat, the Beschwipst, to their cars. As they headed off to points beyond he would tell his friends “Drive Cheerful”. I think my new expression would be “Boat Cheerful”. I can’t wait for the next adventure.
Saturday – Not starting out great this morning. Slow to rise and feeling a touch hung over but no headache, so that was good. I fixed a big ham and cheese sandwich and drank a bunch of cranberry juice. I am sure my liver appreciated that. The wind was still from the east but had simmered down to about 10 knots, like it does in the morning. We pulled out early to go offshore while it was still relatively calm and get in a dive. We anchored in 70’ of water and the boat rocked and rolled. By now I was feeling better but not great. I knew a dive would be just the thing to clear the cobwebs. Dave and The Squirrel were the first in to scope out the area, spotting some nice Hogfish and picking up some deep water conch.
Now it was mine and Em’s chance. She wanted to take pictures and I wanted to sight see. The reef was beautiful with coral heads rising up from the sand 12’ to 15’. There were lots of reef fish and small groupers poking their heads around the corner. I kept my eye on a 6’ reef shark that kept circling and getting closer. Finally, the shark annoyed Em’s photography session enough that she turned and charged him. He took off, never to be seen again. I guess you just don’t mess with a woman when she is on a mission.
I saw a nice scamp grouper and a big Nassau that worked his way up into a hole. I was simply intent on hovering like a bird mid air, diving low to see things under the coral heads then cruising up above them to enjoy the little reef fishes up close. We finished out the dive at the anchor where we hung for a few minutes at 15’ for safety reasons.
After cleaning up the gear and hanging it to air dry, we struck a course for New Providence and Old Fort Bay. Before our dive that day we had lost the starboard engine because of a broken fuel sensor. So it was a slow, agonizing five hour grind back, with the wind off our starboard quarter and the waves parallel to the boat. Oh, it was a long slog. My saving grace was steering the boat for a couple of hours, which made me focus on the horizon, and eventually a cold Gold Kalik. Actually, it took two beers and half a hamburger to fully recover. I’m not sure if it was the drinking, the relentless wind, the constant motion of the boat, or the combination of it all for a week, but I was pretty exhausted.
We were about an hour from port when we came upon a flock of birds. They were everywhere. Dave said “I bet you can find some black tuna under them”. Oh what a tease. Dave and I debated whether we had the energy to put out a line but I couldn’t resist. I had not contributed any fish to the cooler all week and now was my chance. I gamely retrieved the big rod with the cedar plug from down below as Dave circled around. The adrenaline was pumping as I reeled in the first little tuna. Paying out the line for another pass resulted in my second hook up. This time the adrenaline had backed off and the fatigue set in. For such a small fish I was whipped. But, one more pass for good measure put a third fish in the cooler. All right, fresh tuna! While the boat continued it’s combination of quartering and side to side rolls, I sloshed around the aft deck with my arms in the cooler, big knife in hand, cutting off heads and gutting the fish to bleed them out.
We fueled up at Lyford Cay, home of some gorgeous old boats and big mega-yachts. It must be nice to have money like that, for sure. However our boat was still a beauty and a great boat to tour the Bahamas. I bet we have more fun than the rich folks on their mega yachts. We finally got to our marina slip at dark, and ate whatever we had left on the boat. The food was so good, we were all ravenous, and totally exhausted. I finally crashed about 10:30 with a full belly and slept poorly the entire night. Weird dreams, light sleep, and lots of acid in my system, I will be glad to get into my own bed.
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.
South Seas Resort on Captiva Island was the January destination of the Cape Coral Cruise Club. Always a popular location, eighteen boats signed up for the cruise, however, illness or mechanical issues left eight boats unable to participate. The ten boats that made the cruise were MOONLIGHTER, Lee & Brenda Jetton – BOW’T TIME, Terry & Laurie Carlson – Y KNOT, Phil & Pat Kryger – MARKATE, Mark & Kate Lewis – DESPERADO, John Lynch & Debbie Schwab – DAISY MAE, Bob & Bonnie Martin – SHARON ANN, Len & Sharon Palmisano – SUNKISSED, cruise leaders Phil & Lyn Quick along with Phil’s brother Lee – HAPPY OURS, Gary & Kathy Taake, and STILL CRAZY, Jeff & Joanne Zeimer.
The second day at South Seas began with a marvelous pancake and scrambled eggs breakfast in the Chart Room prepared by Susan Herzog and Mary Ann Habich. No one left hungry. A number of the ladies then played cards in the Chart Room while the men explored the resort or fished off the fishing pier. Competing with a large group of aggressive pelicans for the fish, several men caught a number of keepers even with the cold water and gusty winds. One group rode the trolley to the shopping center, and another group walked to lunch.
