The most fun and active yacht club on Marco Island. We have a Long Range Cruisers group for multi-day trips to distant marinas. We have Day Fleet events to various island beaches or boat accessible restaurants along with other boating activities. And we have the only Jetski / Craig Cat Special Interest Group for exploring the 10,000 islands and backwaters. For over 53 years, our Club’s history and traditions has drawn those who love the water, power cruising, and a full and active social life. Check out our calendar of events and articles of past trips and you will will see why we have attained an island reputation as “The Fun Club”. The last Monday of each month is designated as “Monday Madness” Happy Hour from 4:30 to 6:30 pm at CJs at the Esplanade. Join us and become better acquainted with our members and activities. You can belong to another Yacht Club and find us so affordable that you will join us for the boating and social events as well.
Not a member yet? Join us: CLICK HERE to fill out the membership application. The fun awaits you!
In 2023 we introduced a regular Mah Jongg game and offered training to those who wished to learn how to play this tile game. I am pleased to report that we have had several graduates of that training! Congratulations to Margi White, Kathy Stark, Dianne Tarr, Mary Shaw, Candice Thomas, Jo Baille, Jean Taylor.
Captains of the MBYC fleet are routinely found at the Marco Island Hoots on Thursday mornings around 7:00 AM. Rumor has it that there was a recent celebration as one of them observed a seminal birthday. You are cordially invited to join in the fellowship and comradery.
Many of our First Mates meet Friday at 12:15 pm at the local Marco Island Jewish Synagogue to play Triple Canasta. This event is hosted by Judy Sacher. At our game on January 19, 2024 we honored Judy for organizing and facilitating Canasta every week. Judy was presented with a gift basket and restaurant gift card. Thanks again to Judy for hosting our fun “Canasta Fridays”!
Under a magnificent sunset at Hideaway Beach Club the Marco Bay Yacht Club held their 50th ANNUAL CHANGE OF WATCH on January 25, 2024. Highlights of Commodore Linda Gagnon’s message included that the club had welcomed 13 new members this past year, the largest gain in many years.
2023 was a wonderful year with many activities including community events, long range cruisers, day boating events, major parties and social gatherings and lots of games!
After the commodore’s message a delicious dinner was served followed by music by Kellee Kaysee and dancing throughout a very enjoyable night.
Due to inclement weather, the Star Bar at CJ’s was closed for the evening, so we retreated inside, where it was nice and warm. Lydia decided to use Monday Madness as the venue for a surprise birthday party for Paul. It was indeed a surprise, he just didn’t understand why Lydia was so insistent that they attend Monday Madness, until they arrived. I’m certain that certain members managed to wangle more than one coupon for cocktails.
More than 30 members, involved in numerous lively conversations, were packed into the inside bar area. We had a terrific time in spite of the weather outside.
We’re looking forward to warmer weather for February Madness on the 26th.
See you there
MBYC Cruise to HavAnnA Cafe in Chokoloskee
Planning a day of sun, tropical scenery, and culinary delights, we anticipated a cruise to HavAnnA Cafe in Chokoloskee. Little did we know, the journey would take unexpected turns, transforming a simple outing into a memorable adventure.
The boating portion of the cruise hit a roadblock as a small craft advisory forced the cancellation of the maritime option. Undeterred by the change in plans, we embraced the challenge and pivoted to a land cruise.
As we dined, we found themselves immersed in the captivating outdoor ambiance of HavAnnA Cafe. The venue, adorned with vibrant flowers, transported everyone to the laid-back charm of Key West. The unexpected beauty of the surroundings elevated the overall experience, turning a setback into a serendipitous discovery.
Surprisingly, the setbacks of the day fueled enthusiasm rather than dampening spirits. Some boaters suggested considering another trip to The HavAnnA Cafe in the future. The collective interest and eagerness for a repeat adventure spoke volumes about the resilience and camaraderie among our members.
Thanks to Participants
Thanks to each of you who participated in the MBYC parade event, you all made it a spectacular event.
From the decorators, to the walkers and riders it was perfect. Logistical and nourishment support from Holly Erker was so appreciated. Alex Orsolini lending his generator and running down at the last minute for a final top off was great. Rudi stopping by to add decoration support was appreciated and Barry Gelfand’s music was a huge addition to the impact of our float.
It would not have even happened without the support of Steve Stark to secure the boat and Charlie Erker to assist in this effort.
Brent Cook’s on site coordination and decorating knowledge was greatly appreciated.
Basically, the club came through as a team to make this happen.
Holiday Party on the Marco Princess
We arrived to beautiful sunny skies and a man dressed in red, with a white beard and funny hat greeting passengers as they embarked on the ship. Surprise, Santa joined the party and got to pose with many members of the club. Unfortunately, the sunny skies gave way to thick fog as we made our way to the Gulf for a sunset. We missed the sunset but had a fabulous dinner with friends as we cruised around the canals. The Club raised over $1,500 for Toys for Tots. Thanks, Sally Orth, for making the beautiful tree that was raffled off and congratulations to Susan Cook for winning the prize!
As always, Bonnie Pilat organized a fabulous party with fun scratch tickets and a special gift for all.
A good crowd gathered at CJ’s on The Bay for Monday Madness on November 27th 2023. The weather was a little cool that night but 40 plus folks came out to socialize with friends. We were pleased to have some potential new members join in the fun.
Our 50/50 winners:
3rd place: Paul Schneeberger $20
2nd place: Lyn Tuttle $32
1st place: Dan Lowell $42
Wishing each and everyone a very Merry Christmas.
