There is always plenty to do around Charlotte Harbor! While berthed at Fishermen’s Village Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, you are certain to enjoy visiting Western Florida’s beautiful Charlotte Harbor/Peace River. The marina and fuel dock are temporarily closed until further notice.
Punta Gorda, FL—Fishermen’s Village management announced today they plan to reopen the retail and dining establishments at the property on Friday, November 1st.
Fishermen’s Village has been in clean up and recovery mode following Hurricane Milton. The Village team of employees along with multiple service contractors have worked tirelessly to prepare the property for reopening. Since the holidays are just around the corner, staff has also been installing lights and décor for the annual Lighting of the Village and Festival of Lights Celebration (which kicks off November 16th).
General Manager, Patti Allen reflected by saying “We are thrilled to have made significant progress on our clean up and recovery efforts thanks to the dedication of our family of employees and merchants. We thank the community for their concern and well wishes and look forward to seeing everyone shopping and dining at our independently owned businesses which are the heart of the Village”!
The Suites at Fishermen’s village will be partially reopened as of November 1st.
King Fisher Fleet and Your Boat Club will reopen Friday, November 1st; however, the Marina and Fuel Dock will be temporarily closed until further notice.
For more information, visit fishermensvillage.com as well as our social media channels.
On November 2, go big or gourd home! Hitch a hay ride, decorate a pumpkin, dance to live bluegrass music, dig into a plate of Carolina barbeque and enjoy all the fall fun at our annual Harvest Festival!
Two Weeks and Counting…
Join in the countdown to the 2024 Holiday Festival of Lights! We’re flipping the switch and opening the gates to the public on November 15. Don’t wait, get your tickets today!
Enter the Dragon
Add a new favorite to your annual holiday traditions: seeing the Holiday Festival of Lights from a dragon boat! Get a hands-on introduction to this ancient sport on the James Island County Park lake, then let us treat you to a hot chocolate and free admission to the festival. These boats fill up fast, so reserve your paddle now!
Bird By Bird
Escape to a stunning natural wonderland – without ever leaving the Lowcountry. On November 8, join our birding expert for a walk through Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, where a rich diversity of birds make their homes within the protected marshland and maritime forest habitats.
Good as Gold
Already stressing about your holiday shopping? Make the gift-giving season easier on yourself when you give the Gold Pass! From your Secret Santa to your dog sitter to your neighbor who helped you clean up after the storm, everyone can enjoy a year in the parks with this one-size-fits-all present.
Cruisers Net publishes Loose Cannon articles with Captain Swanson’s permission in hopes mariners with salt water in their veins will subscribe.. $7 a month or $56 for the year and you may cancel at anytime.
As a cherished SCYC guest, you are receiving special early access to our upcoming Black Friday Escape Deals! Click below to reveal your exclusive offer!
Gulfport Municipal Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is located in the heart of downtown Gulfport. The marina and harbor, found on the northern shores of Boca Ciega Bay, are easily accessible from the Western Florida ICW, just north of Tampa Bay.
Our Local Businesses Still Need Your Support
Support Our Local Businesses After Hurricanes Helene & Milton
Dear Community,
As we begin the long road to recovery following the recent devastating hurricanes, our local businesses need our support more than ever. While many have faced significant challenges, some are still open and ready to serve you!
Here’s why your patronage matters:
Community Resilience: Every purchase helps our local economy bounce back. Supporting open businesses means keeping jobs and livelihoods intact.
Restoration Efforts: Your support aids in the recovery process, helping businesses rebuild and provide services that make our community thrive.
Local Flavor: Our unique shops and restaurants give our town its character. Let’s keep them alive and vibrant!
Strength in Unity: Together, we can show our local entrepreneurs that we stand with them in their time of need.
Let’s rally together! Visit your favorite local spots, share their posts, and spread the word. Every little bit helps!
#ShopLocal #GulfportStrong
Gulfport City Mandates Cancellation of all Market Events
Due to the devastation of our downtown area, the city has directed the GMC to cancel all markets for the month of October. This includes Tuesday Market, First Friday Art Walk and 3rd Saturday IndieFaire. Please continue to visit downtown and support the businesses that are open.
This Weekend in Gulfport
Witches Gathering at North End Taphouse
Gulflport’s Witches Walk is cancelled this year. But do not fret! It’s the season of the witch, so we want them to have a place to gather and commune.
Come hither all ye witches to The North End Tap House! There is no need to walk! Land your brooms in the Village Courtyard for a night of fun, music and Witches’ Brews.
Saturday October 26th starting at 5pm, there will be a Witchy Gathering at The Taphouse! Wear your witchy attire for a costume contest. Prizes will be awarded for The Scariest Witch, The Sexiest Witch and The Most Creative Witch!
Enjoy Witchy Vendors, a Tea Leaf Reader from 5-7 and Tarot readings from 7-9. Readings with Michele, providing spiritual guidance in all life areas using Tarot, angels and intuition. $20 for 15 mintues.
The Emotional Support Band will be playing from 3-6 and Kudu will play at 7, along with KC, a local Gulfport musician.
The Kitchen will be open! It will be eerie how much fun we’ll have.
DEADtoberfest at The Gulfport Brewery
Join us Saturday, October 26th for a hellish good time as we reimagine our traditional Oktoberfest into a night of the undead. Dress to impress with costume contests, Oktoberfest games, German menu and a killer night of live music. Prost!
Fundraising at The Brenda McMahon Gallery
Throughout the month of October, Brenda McMahon Gallery is donating 10% of ALL SALES REVENUES to Gulfport Hurricane Relief Efforts. So far the Gallery has raised over $1,000 and still has a few more weeks to go.
This month when you buy art you triple your joy: support a local business, a local artist AND donate to hurricane relief – all while treating yourself to something you love. It’s a win, win, win.
The fundraiser continues through the end of October. Brenda McMahon Gallery, located at 2901 Beach Boulevard, is open 6 days a week and opens at 11am each day. Stop in, say hello and support your local community just like local art collectors. Elizabeth and Melissa did!
November Featured Artist
Brenda McMahon Gallery is excited to celebrate the work of November Featured Artist Ted Wray. Wray is a sculptor who transforms old books into sculptural art pieces by using an exacto knife and a vivid imagination. See how he carves new life into old books.
The Gallery opening is Friday, November 1st, 6-9pm. Jazz Saxophonist Henry Ashwood will be live on the Stage at 2901. Family friendly & Free.
Salty Pelican Boat Tours Announces Special $10 Dolphin Tours to Support the Community
Discounted Tours Available October 24-27 and November 2-4 at 2 PM
Gulfport, FL – In a heartfelt effort to give back to the local community, Salty Pelican Boat Tours is offering $10 Dolphin Boat Tours on select dates. These tours, typically priced higher, are now available at a reduced rate to provide an affordable, fun escape for families and individuals in need.
The discounted tours will run at 2:00 PM on the following dates:
October 24, 25, 26, 27
November 2, 3, 4
Seats are limited, and guests are encouraged to reserve their spot in advance by visiting www.saltypelicanboattours.comor calling 727-404-1672. To access the special $10 price, use the coupon code “Gulfport” at the time of booking. We depart from Gulfport Municipal Marina.
“We’ve been embraced by this amazing community, and this is our way of saying thank you,” said Capt Rob & Emily, owners of Salty Pelican Boat Tours. “We believe everyone deserves the chance to experience the beauty of our waters and wildlife, and we hope these tours help spread some joy.”
The Dolphin Boat Tour is a one-of-a-kind experience, offering breathtaking views of the Gulf Coast and a chance to spot playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Salty Pelican Boat Tours encourages participants to take advantage of these special offers to enjoy time on the water while supporting a business that values community connections.
For more information or to book your seat, visit www.saltypelicanboattours.comor contact Salty Pelican Boat Tours at 727-404-1672.
Wine Pairing Event-October 25th
TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE
Due to a some rough sailing the past couple of weeks, we have postponed our first ever wine pairing dinner to Friday, October 25th, beginning 7 p.m.
Enjoy a four course dinner with dishes crafted by Chef Morgan Banno. Each course will be accompanied by a different wine from Hess Persson Estates.
Take a look at this menu…
Starter Individual charcuterie board with a selection of curated meats, cheeses and accoutrements
Soup Vichyssoise with garlic croutons and chive
Main Surf & Turf with butternut squash risotto, asparagus
Dessert Autumn Apple Crisp, creme anglaise, salted caramel sauce
Seating is limited. $80 per person (gratuity not included). For tickets, visit or call us. 2904 Beach Blvd S Gulfport, FL 33707 (727) 303-0976
Upcoming Events at DRV Gallery
Nov 1st 5:30-8:30 – Evening at the Gallery – Solo Exhibition: Face Value featuring the fiber portrait artwork of Dawn Waters
Proceeds from opening night of this solo exhibition will go to hurricane relief efforts, specifically Red Cross. This uplifting community event will also feature live music with Jim Gilmour and special guest Rebecca Zapen. This event is free and open to the public.
Nov 1st – Dec 6th – Call for Artist Entries for the 3rd Annual “Art for a Cause” Exhibition
Artists are invited to apply to showcase their original artwork to raise awareness for the cause of their choice. This is a juried show. 20 artists will be selected from all applicants. Only 50 applications will be accepted. First come, first serve. The show will be juried and judged by Keith Matter, Editor & Publisher of The Artisan magazine, with awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place being announced at the opening reception on January 3, 2025. $25 per submission.
Nov 16th 1-3PM – Expert Series – Painting: Impressionism the Easy Way with Jack Providenti
Jack Providenti will provide an in-depth demonstration on how to create a dramatic, light-filled impressionistic landscape or seascape painting, indoors or outdoors without having to draw. Learn theory & practice in 5 easy steps to create your painting and achieve beautiful results in a single painting session. Suitable for beginning or intermediate painters. $25pp. REGISTER: https://www.drvgallery.com/store/p/expert-series-nov-16th-1-3pm-painting-impressionism-the-easy-way
Community Resources
Please Continue to Support Our Businesses That Are Open
Come Relax & Unwind at The Gulfport Cigar Company
If you need a place to wind down after this incredibly stressful week, stop by the Gulfport Cigar Company. They will be offering 10% off to locals who come in for a purchase.
The Gulfport Corner Store is Open to Serve!
If you are in need of snacks, drinks or anything else to brighten up your day, The Corner Store is there for you! Please continue to stop in for your daily dose of coffee, ice cream or just a quick chat with Eddie and the team!
Siri’s Pizza Continues to Serve Our Town
Please continue to support Siri’s as they were open and feeding our town shortly after the storm rolled through. They have the best pizza in town and lots of other options if you need a nice hot meal!
The Dismal Swamp Route departs the southbound Waterway at MM 7.2 and northbound via the Pasquatank River. Our thanks to Sarah Hill for this invitation from Dismal Swamp Welcome Center, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR!
Good Morning!
Hope all is well! Passing along some fall images from the Dismal Swamp Canal & Dismal Swamp State Park- we’re starting to see some autumn colors pop up.
Happy to report from recent boaters, very little to no duckweed- no issues. Locks & drawbridges operating on normal schedule.
We’ve put together a few “Know before you go” DSC Boating tips on our website:
Just pass the canal on 10/29-30 /24. 6 feet of water and wonderful stop at the visitor center. A beautiful trip in a serein environment. No rag weeds. A first for us and I am glad we did it.
Pet owners, rejoice! Kanberra’s all-natural products help keep your home fresh and odor-free while being completely safe for your furry friends. You can enjoy a clean home without worrying about harmful chemicals around your pets.
Morningstar Marina at Golden Isles, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, lies along the southern reaches of the Frederica River, between Lanier and St. Simons Islands, south of the charted 9 foot bridge.
For Immediate Release: Wednesday, October 16, 2024 – 4:40PM
City of Gulfport Update: A Message from Mayor Sam Henderson
FEMA Assistance and Debris Removal Updates for Gulfport Residents
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is providing direct assistance to residents impacted by Hurricane Helene. Assistance will be available daily, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, at the Gulfport Public Library through Tuesday, October 22, including Sunday.
The City of Gulfport is actively working on debris removal. We ask for your patience, as it may take several months to complete the process. Our focus is on clearing construction materials first, followed by vegetative debris. Multiple passes will be required. Please place your debris near the roadside, away from power lines and other obstacles. Separate vegetative material, construction materials, garbage bags, appliances, and paint for easier collection. Regular sanitation and recycling routes have resumed their normal schedules.
At this stage, Gulfport is in the “Muck, Dry, and Wait” phase of recovery. While conditions may worsen before they improve, we will rebuild safer and stronger. For more information on what to do after storm damage, visit Pinellas County Storm Damage Guide.
The City encourages residents to stay informed through official channels as recovery efforts progress. Please visit https://mygulfport.us/ for updates and further information.
Stay safe, Gulfport!
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City of Gulfport Florida | 2401 53rd Street South | Gulfport, FL 33707 US
Cruisers Net publishes Loose Cannon articles with Captain Swanson’s permission in hopes mariners with salt water in their veins will subscribe.. $7 a month or $56 for the year and you may cancel at anytime.
Cruisers Net publishes Loose Cannon articles with Captain Swanson’s permission in hopes mariners with salt water in their veins will subscribe.. $7 a month or $56 for the year and you may cancel at anytime.
Fishermen’s Village Marina, A CRUISERS NET SPONSOR, is temporarily closed for clean up and recovery.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Punta Gorda, FL – Fishermen’s Village Mall, Resort and Marina is currently temporarily closed as we progress through cleanup and recovery efforts following hurricane Milton.
A Reopening date will be announced and released as information becomes available.
If you have any interest at all in boat building, or just messing about in boats, then this article is for you. Thank you Capt. Wheeler.
SPARRING WITH MOTHER NATURE ~~ latest addition! Settle back for your Sunday Morning Read. I’m so honored that you’re following along. Thank you.
Please enjoy the latest passages from STEADFAST. As of August 1st, 2024 we are undergoing extensive repair and refit and will be for several months. In boating terms we are hauled out “on the hard.” I plan to mix Sailing Stories with the challenges and intricacies of restoring a 90-year-old Sailing Yacht. I’m always open to suggestions as to content….please feel free to weigh in. Thank you. J
Boatbuilder Duncan Macfarlane has an old soul. Alive for just under four decades, he prefers music recorded prior to his birth and reveres vessels built long before that. His passion for wooden boats is so strong, in fact, that he’s made it his life’s work to bring them back to what they once were. Back to what they should be. Back to what their designers wanted them to be, and maybe, just maybe, one shade better. On his first day I said to him, “My father always told me, ‘Measure twice, cut once.’ Is that your Mantra?” He looked at me steadily and replied with just a touch of levity. “Oh no. We measure many times.”
In this photographic essay, Duncan fits the knee, (which you can see being shaped in the post MORE PRECIOUS COMMODITIES), recreates the stem, (or very front) of STEADFAST, and attaches the two together, preparing for installation. The new Purpleheart is a stark and startling contrast to the century-old materials it is replacing and supporting.
This is the knee, which attaches the stem to the forekeel, or bottom, of the vessel. What a contrast to the original oak. We want it to last another 90 years! The final photo is the view from inside.
Duncan trims our PRECIOUS COMMODITIES down to size prior to the final shaping of the larger new component, the stem.
Patterns were created from the removed damaged stem as well as from the original 1934 William Hand Jr. designs, which we obtained from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s collection.
The rectangular inlay is called a Dutchman and is used to eliminate an unwanted quality in the lumber. Everything Duncan does has that level of detail.
When the Purpleheart is cut, the color comes alive. I call this Duncan’s Purple World.
He spent hours lofting, which is laying out the plans to scale, and he spends more hours making sure the new fit is perfect, adjusting as he goes.
Tools of the trade range from the rudimentary to the advanced, and it is the attention to detail that will pay off in the end.
STEADFAST’S two new components are fit together for the first time and holes are drilled for the long custom bronze bolts that will hold them together. You can see the seam where the knee and the stem come together.
This precise work requires a bit of guidance, a bit of strength and a hell of a drill bit. The curve that you see here will eventually be what is commonly referred to as the bow.
The holes drilled are precisely the same size as the bronze bolts and it takes some brawn to pound them through the tough tropical hardwood. Tar seals the seam, and there is a ‘key’ (the small block of wood between the stem and the knee) ensuring that everything fits just as it should.
This may be the last week we can see outside from the inside. It is truly a disconcerting view.
The apparatus is in place to install the half-ton of meticulously recreated replacement components, giving STEADFAST back her shape. Progress indeed! Duncan is on the right, owner Steve Uhthoff is on the left.
The ancient art of shipbuilding is, like many ancient arts, becoming more and more rare, as are boatbuilders themselves. It was determined a few decades ago that other materials lasted longer and were far easier to maintain. Progress? That, of course, is a matter of opinion. Regardless, what an opportunity it is to see how complex, intricate, interdependent and STEADFAST vessels such as this one really are. Thanks for following along as we complete the painstaking and joyful repair and refit of our floating home. There are many more steps to come!!
Your input is appreciated and welcome! Love wooden boats? Build them? Never seen one? People certainly fall into all these categories. Like our Boatbuilder himself, STEADFAST most certainly has an old soul, in more ways than one.
*** I will always keep the articles I have written available for free to my readers. If you see value and possess the means, it’s great encouragement to have paid subscribers. If not, simply ‘liking,’ commenting, restacking and sharing these tales helps spread the word about me and what I have chosen to do. There should be someone on your email list that would be intrigued! Sharing is caring.
Most importantly, YOU, MY READERS, ARE TREMENDOUSLY APPRECIATED!
And lastly: our weekly sunrise. These can be seen on Facebook YACHTING STEADFAST each and every morning until 2025.
A Deadrise Workboat goes out at dawn in the last month of the Blue Crab Season here on the Chesapeake Bay. Miss STEADFAST is the two masts on the right, hauled out at Yacht Maintenance Co. in Cambridge, Maryland.
#13 For Immediate Release: Saturday, October 12, 2024 – 9:15AM
Gulfport Library Open Today with Essential Services
The Gulfport Library will be open today from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We are pleased to offer internet access, flushing toilets, Wi-Fi, and access to library materials and holds.
While we currently have limited air conditioning, the temperature inside the building remains comfortable. Please note that the city is under a boil water notice, so our water fountain is unavailable.
For more information, please call 727-893-1074 after 10:00 AM.
Thank you for your understanding, and we look forward to welcoming you today.
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City of Gulfport Florida | 2401 53rd Street South | Gulfport, FL 33707 US
Support Our Local Businesses After Hurricanes Helene & Milton 
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