Cape Coral Cruise Club - “Where boaters become friends and memories last forever.”
A January to Remember with the
Cape Coral Cruise Club
The Cape Coral Cruise Club kicked off the new year in signature style—clear skies, calm waters, outstanding food, and the kind of fellowship that keeps members coming back month after month.
Our January picnic at Hidden Island was a standout event and a perfect example of what makes our club so special. With ideal weather and a gentle breeze off the water, members and guests gathered to enjoy a fantastic meal hosted by our new Rear Commodore, Tim Bartholomew, and his wife and First Mate, Mary Anne.
Mary Anne truly raised the galley bar, treating everyone to braised short ribs over buttered egg noodles, roasted green beans and carrots, and decadent homemade desserts including cannoli and coconut cream pie. Plates were full, and spirits were even fuller.
This picnic also gave us the pleasure of welcoming five prospective member couples, along with an additional guest couple of a current member. Visitors enjoyed a guided stroll around Hidden Island, complete with a brief history of the Cape Coral Cruise Club and its long-standing tradition of camaraderie and adventure.
Each couple introduced themselves, sharing their boating experience, their vessels, and where their cruising journeys began—quickly proving that it doesn’t take long for boaters to feel at home among fellow captains and crew.
As always, the afternoon unfolded with friendly card games, dockside laughter, and sea stories shared among friends—both seasoned members and those just discovering what our club is all about.
Burnt Store Marina Cruise
January’s club cruise to Burnt Store Marina, hosted by Gordy and Nancy Littler, was another highlight. Designed as a weekend cruise to allow working members to join, the event saw ten boats cruising together under wonderfully calm conditions—smooth sailing that every captain appreciates.
Friday evening began with a lively potluck dinner under the Tiki, where shared dishes and easy conversation flowed as freely as the music from the outdoor bar.
Saturday morning brought a hearty breakfast provided by the cruise leaders, enjoyed once again under the Tiki. That evening, members gathered at Cass Cay, with some arriving by car, bringing the total number in attendance to 34 people.
The night was filled with great food, laughter, and live music on the outdoor deck—many lingering to enjoy the sounds before returning to their boats for a peaceful night at the marina. Sunday wrapped up the cruise with brunch at Cass Cay before lines were cast off and bows turned for home.
General Membership Meeting
Back ashore, our general membership meeting was held at Fins on Del Prado, drawing 40 attendees, including several new prospective members eager to learn more about cruising with the club.
Rounding out a busy month, our January Lunch Bunch met at Oak & Stone, one of Cape Coral’s newest dining destinations in the thriving downtown area.
With new members coming aboard and interest continuing to grow, it’s clear the Cape Coral Cruise Club is charting a course that many boaters want to follow!
From relaxed island picnics to organized cruises and social gatherings, there’s always something on the horizon.
Fair winds, full calendars, and even better company—stay tuned for more adventures in the months ahead.
Come Join The Fun!
Laurie Carlson
If you have a vessel with full overnight accommodations, and would like more information about joining our Club, please contact our Membership Chairperson, Laurie Carlson, at 239-910-5543! You can also check us out on our Facebook page or our website at: www.CapeCoralCruiseClub.com
