Scot Trueblood <<email>> writes:

Being as it looks as though we may be enduring several days of wind for the Rob Kells Memorial Meet at the Florida Ridge, Paradise Hang Gliding, Inc. wishes to offer the bored contestants a diversionary activity in the event of another blown-out day or days:

For a gas donation of $30 per person, I will take groups of upwards of eight on a guided scenic eco-tour of the estuary and near-shore waters of the Florida Gulf coast. Conducted from our custom built aircraft carrier the Reel High, Each trip will last approximately 2 hrs.+ and will include the following…

• complimentary non-alcoholic refreshments, BYO if you want something with some kick


• guided educational eco-tour of the estuary and near shore waters


• 45 min. stop on an island beach for shell collecting, sightseeing, photo taking, and swimming


• 30 min. stop (tides permitting) at Mound Key, an Indian archaeological site, foot tour and photos at one of the highest points in S Florida


• all the Jimmy Buffett music you can stand, or bring your own discs or iPod to plug into the awesome stereo system

We rarely travel these waters without seeing numbers of dolphin and even some manatee, not to mention the many large birds which make their living here. We will go right past osprey nests with young birds inside, and can watch as egrets and great blue herons strike like lightning with their spear-like beaks. With any luck, we will also spot some sea turtles and perhaps the unforgettable sight of a spotted eagle ray flying high out of the water.

Please remember, this is not a paid charter, merely a boating excursion with friends. I need a minimum of 2 hours advance notice, a minimum of four participants, maximum of eight. We can meet and board right here at the World Headquarters of Paradise Hang Gliding, Inc. Be sure to bring swimsuit and towel, flip flops or sandals, sunglasses and sunscreen, and cameras. Bring bicycles if you want to make more of a full day of it, the bike paths here along the beach are quite nice, as well as some seafood restaurants on the water where you can watch the sunset with a cocktail and awesome dinner.

Call me at 1-888-WINGS-FL to make group arrangements.