Contributing Writer Laurie Carlson
Cape Coral Cruise Club
“Where boaters become friends and memories last forever.”
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May Adventures:
Chili, Cruising & First-Class Fun!
May was another action-packed month for the Cape Coral Cruise Club, proving once again that our members know how to have a great time both on and off the water!
Hidden Island Picnic and Cruise
We kicked off the month with our 2nd Annual Chili Cook-Off at Hidden Island. With 31 members in attendance and 8 brave contestants vying for chili supremacy, the competition was spirited, delicious, and just a little bit intense! Last year’s runner-up, Steve Connolly, boldly declared that he would take home the trophy this year—and he delivered on that promise in spectacular fashion.
After claiming the grand prize, Steve spent the remainder of the day enthusiastically celebrating his victory and making sure no one forgot who the reigning Chili Champion was. His good-natured victory lap provided plenty of laughs for everyone.
A special thank you goes to our contestants, for the mouth-watering chilis, and to the picnic hosts, the Sheridan and Queen families, who did a stellar job organizing the event. From festive decorations and creative toppings to delicious side dishes, desserts, and prizes, every detail helped make the day a tremendous success.
Cruise to Naples City Docks
Later in the month, seven boats cruised south for our annual trip to the Naples City Docks. Cruise hosts Steve and Deanne Connolly truly set a new standard for hospitality. Drawing on Steve’s career as a retired airline pilot, every attendee received a “First Class” welcome gift bag filled with travel toiletries upon arrival. Talk about a smooth landing!
The fun continued with fabulous breakfast buffets at the pavilion, strolls to the beach, shopping excursions to Tin City, boat watching, and perhaps a cocktail or two to stay cool in the Florida sunshine. Group dinners at The Boathouse and The Dock provided wonderful opportunities for fellowship, and two member couples even drove down to join us for dinner at The Boathouse.
Friendly competition was once again the theme of the weekend. Members enjoyed a lively game of Giant Jenga, while Steve and Deanne also organized a “Mullet Toss” fishing challenge. Couples had to “catch” fish and toss them into a bucket, testing both skill and teamwork.
New members Emil and Doreene Maséra quickly made their presence known, taking home the grand prize after Emil showcased some impressive dart-throwing accuracy by landing nearly every fish in the bucket! Since this was also their “shake-down” cruise, we’re happy to report they passed with flying colors and were officially approved for membership. Welcome aboard, Emil and Doreene!
Of course, no Cruise Club gathering would be complete without happy hour. Our hosts treated everyone to incredible charcuterie spreads that had members wondering if they should skip dinner altogether. On the final evening, with temperatures soaring and humidity making itself known, a smaller group gathered aboard the Carlsons’ boat to enjoy the comfort of air conditioning, great conversation, and—yes—another impressive charcuterie buffet.
Lunch Bunch!
Back on land, our monthly Lunch Bunch gathering was held at Outback Steakhouse. Despite many of our seasonal members already heading north for the summer, 17 members attended, making for a wonderful turnout and plenty of lively conversation.
As summer approaches and some of our members begin their seasonal migrations northward, we’re reminded that what makes the Cape Coral Cruise Club special isn’t just the boats or the destinations—it’s the friendships, laughter, and memories we create along the way.
Until next month, may your seas be calm, your dock lines secure, and your charcuterie boards always full!
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Laurie Carlson
Come Join The Fun!
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
