CRUISING FLEET

by Debbie Storey, Fleet Captain

October is a time of change at SPYC, and the Cruising Fleet is no exception. Our October dinner saw the exchange of the Cruising Fleet flag from the outgoing Fleet Captain (Kevin Cross) to incoming (Debbie Storey). Kevin has been at the helm of the Cruising Fleet for the last 2 years, with Susan as his “Admiral,” and they have done an incredible job leading the Fleet through significant growth and many unprecedented challenges, including Hurricane Ian! We are so grateful for their leadership, and glad to know they will remain active members of the Fleet.

Sarasota YC and Bird Key YC were our September cruising destinations, split between the two clubs on the same weekend to accommodate all cruisers who wanted to participate. Jay and Cynthia Fleece were our Port Directors, their first time as Port Directors, and they planned a terrific weekend for the group. Both yacht clubs are popular destinations for the Fleet, and with Bird Key just a short dinghy ride from Sarasota, all cruisers were able to participate in all of the activities Jay and Cynthia planned for the weekend. Friday evening kicked off with docktails and appetizers in the SYC lounge, followed by a fantastic buffet dinner in the main dining room. After dinner, several of the cruisers stayed to dance to the wonderful live band. On Saturday, cruisers shopped in St. Armands Circle, visited the Farmer’s Market in downtown Sarasota, and cooled off in the SYC pool. Saturday evening began with lively group cocktails at Cha Cha Coconuts in St. Armands Circle, followed by short walks to dinner at three different restaurants. The Day Trippers enjoyed a great September day on the water and a fabulous lunch at Island Grill. Nine-teen cruisers came by boat or iron dinghy. Many thanks to Barbara & Heber Weller for all their work leading the Day Trippers group!

* Nov 2nd Lunch: Chris Steinocher, CEO, St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce

* Nov 3rd - 5th: Anna Maria cruise 2

* Nov 17th - 19th: Twin Dolphin & Bradenton YC cruise