Merry Mariner Cruise on the Tropic Star 5/19/2004
We all arrived early so we could have plenty of time to board the boat. This was a tribute to Ali that we got there at all because she found out on the day of the trip that the boat was at Pineland Marina and not in Bokeelia as originally advertised.
As soon as we got on the boat, the food was put out for all to enjoy. Another great feast put on by the Merry Mariners.

This is the first time many of us had gone out of Pineland Marina, so the waters were unfamiliar to us. By the way, the boat was tilted to the left. However, it seemed to right itself after a redistribution of weight.

 
The skipper was human encyclopedia of the area and had a continuing commentary about every island we passed.
On the right is the remains of one of the many fishing shacks built on stilts.
The Captain took us into a little harbor where we were on the lookout for manatees. We did see a couple of them in a distance.
The way in and out was narrow and shallow. We were all very attentive as we went through the channel. It did start raining shortly after we came out of the channel, but we dropped all the windows and kept fairly dry.

Since the toilet facility on the boat was not operational, he had mercy on us and stopped at Cayo Costa state park so we could take a rest break.

 
Of course what would a Merry Mariner cruise be like without our 50/50 raffle. Yup, you guessed it, Bonnie won again; along with Rusty, who seems to be very happy with his winnings.
Heidi was overjoyed for her first 50/50 raffle win. The Captain won a free cruise on the Tropic Star but he gave it back to the club and Dot and Dick Gartner, our resident Travel Agents won it. Look for that to be a add-on benefit on one of your next cruises booked with them.
This was booked as a Sunset Cruise and we did have a sunset. Since it was overcast, it was not a spectacular one, but it was pretty.
We all had a great time talking with each other and reliving other cruises and other experiences. Here Mike is enthralling the 1st mate with one of his life experiences.
It was dark, overcast night as we came back into the harbor and we were hoping the Captain knew where he was going. This was shortly after running aground, so our confidence was somewhat shaken.
This was another fun trip thanks to Ali and Judy for all their work, and to everyone you brought food to share. We always have an enjoyable time when we go out with the Merry Mariners!

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