We wrapped up our spring boating season with a joint venture between the Day Fleet and JSIG (Jetski Special Interest Group) to Panther Key. The plan was for the Day Fleet to meet at Coon Key Light and convoy directly to Panther Key via Gullivan Bay. The JSIG group that signed up, were all from the south side of Marco, so we met at Caxambas pass an hour earlier so we could meander through the 10K islands before rendezvousing at Panther Key.
We had 6 jet skis (8 people) and 6 bigger boats (also 8 riders). As a reminder for all day fleet events for the last couple years, you can still RSVP to these events and request to ride on someone else’s vessel. We are a community and it is typically more fun to share a ride than to go alone.
The JSIG ride was a “Turtle Ride” which meant that we stayed under 25mph and even slower in the twisting channels. I want to share the reviews I received after the event.
-Maria Orsolini
“I loved my wave runner ride with Howard Lipkin (AKA Maverick) through the thick mangroves led by our Commodore Bob. There were tight places where we needed to duck our heads and carefully maneuver with branches brushing us.
It was awesome!!”
-Paul Schneeberger
“What a day. Great trip.”
-Anne Vanic
“Thanks so much for arranging a wonderful substitute for the Chokoloskee trip. The Panther key event was great. Special thanks to JSIG members who lead &/or shared their jet skis for the backwater tours. Great fun. Perfect weather was appreciated too!”
-Kelly Rogers
“This was such a fun event and the weather was perfect! Safe travels to all of those who are heading out for the Summer!”
-Linda Sandlin
“Panther Key trip was a blast. Perfect day! Wonderful camaraderie on the beach! Lots of friendly, helpful hands! Great jet ski ride!”
I also want to thank Steve Stark for lending out his ski to both the Vanic’s and the Fuhrman’s so that they could pilot the ski in the backwaters. I think the outing worked flawlessly
If you look at our website, you will see pointers to 3 different highlighted JSIG rides. I regret that I did not hook up my camera to add this trip. There is music with each of these videos below.
Canopy Lane
Blackwater River
Palm Bay
