News from Cape Coral
Learn about one of the best boating clubs in Southwest Florida.
By John Queen, Past Commodore
The Cape Coral Cruise Club offers boaters some of the most unique and enjoyable cruising opportunities in Southwest Florida. Each month, the Club schedules an organized cruise to a different marina destination throughout the region, where members spend several days enjoying local amenities, waterfront dining, and the hospitality of each port. These monthly cruises take place nine times per year, along with an extended cruise each spring, while the Club takes a well-earned break during the summer months of July and August.
What truly sets the Cape Coral Cruise Club apart is that it is the only boating club in Southwest Florida that owns a private island. Located on the Caloosahatchee River, just a few miles east of the Franklin Locks near Alva, the Club’s private island is the heart of many member activities. On the first Saturday of each month, the Club hosts gourmet picnics on the island, bringing members together for great food and even better fellowship.
Many members arrive by boat, taking advantage of dockage and power accommodations for up to 16 vessels. Others choose to arrive a few days early to enjoy cookouts, card games, and relaxed social time with fellow boaters. Members who do not bring their boats can drive to a nearby parking area, where a club-owned pontoon boat transports them to the island. This pontoon is operated by U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captains, all of whom are Club members.
The private island is truly “Old Florida” at its finest. Amenities include a covered pavilion that comfortably seats up to 70 people for meals, restrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a large garage stocked with tools and equipment used to maintain the property. A modern security system protects the island and its assets when it is not in use.
When the Club isn’t gathering at the island, members enjoy organized group cruises to popular marinas throughout Southwest Florida. Favorite destinations include Pink Shell Resort at Fort Myers Beach, Tween Waters Resort, and South Seas Island Resort on Captiva. Monthly cruises typically depart on Tuesdays and return on Fridays and feature a full schedule of games, contests, educational seminars, and, of course, plenty of shared meals and camaraderie.
Each April, the Cape Coral Cruise Club also embarks on an extended cruise, usually lasting seven to ten days. Over the years, these longer adventures have taken members to exciting destinations such as Miami, Georgia, Tampa, Key West, and even the Bahamas.
The Cape Coral Cruise Club is an excellent choice for boaters living in Lee, Collier, or Charlotte counties who own a powerboat with overnight accommodations and are looking for a friendly, social boating club focused on safe cruising and lasting friendships.
For more information about membership, contact Membership Chairperson Laurie Carlson at (239) 910-5543, or visit the Club’s website at www.CapeCoralCruiseClub.com.