Twin Dolphin Marina Cruise Review

May 28 – 31
Cruise Leaders:  Carolee & Nick Bavaro

Thanks to everyone’s prayers, the weather was perfect!! We had a total of 16 boats and 1 drive in with a total of about 40 people. The number was constantly changing due to Andy’s family coming and going many times.

Coming down on Friday there were a few blown tires which could have been caused by an accident on I-4 where a van rolled. Boats arrived at a steady stream throughout the day, and we were all able to be on “A” dock together. There were some slip changes but I think everyone ended up OK.

Top Shelf had to be towed over from the ramp due to overheating and an alarm and eventual shut down of the engine (anyone that was at the general meeting would find that amusing). All was able to be fixed on Saturday, and everything is fine now (at least when we all left). We had docktails Friday evening, and most people used that as their dinner.

Saturday we were joined by Mike Tannenbaum and his crew completing our numbers. Many boats went out for a ride on Saturday. Some went to lunch and all ended at Longboat Pass for an afternoon of sun and fun. Those of us that stayed behind enjoyed the pool. Valerie Crandall used her culinary skills to cook us a wonderful pulled pork dinner. Thanks to Les for doing the majority of the “pulling” as I was handicapped trying to pull with one hand. There were many wonderful side dishes to share once again. Our club is filled with great cooks (and a few good shoppers too).

On Sunday we headed out again to first try Egmont Key. Being a holiday weekend, it was quite crowded. Just Add Water was able to get anchored and decided to hang there. The majority of the rest of us headed back down to Longboat Pass for another afternoon of fun. You couldn’t have asked for more beautiful weather, and the water was clearer than I have ever seen. Unfortunately, the Tannenbaum’s had engine trouble and had to be towed to a ramp, pull out, and cut their weekend short. We were sad to lose them so quickly.

For dinner, we all headed to Maddison’s (have to use those $20 coupons you know). We decided to do 50/50 there since we had a captive audience. Glad to report that Don Wood, on his first trip back after a long absence, won the 50/50. We were also able to celebrate Tom & BJ Dean’s 15th wedding anniversary with cake and champagne. Congrats to you both (even if it is a little early).

On Sunday the families started leaving early. I know Don Wood was gone by the time I got up at 7:00 a.m. There was a steady stream of departures throughout the day. We were able to spend some time in the pool before we left however.

I think all in all we had a good trip. As usual there were a couple of issues but nothing too tragic. I’m sure everyone is looking forward to the trip to South Seas. Enjoy!