April has quickly crept up on us—especially for those of us known as “snowbirds.” Soon we’ll be packing away our northern attire, stuffing our suitcases, and heading back to family and friends. But not before we celebrate the rest of this wonderful season in Southwest Florida! Let’s take a moment to reminisce about some of our favorite March traditions and look ahead to what’s coming in April.
FLEET WEEK 2026 (MARCH 9–12)
March 9 – Long Distance Sailboat Race
Fleet Week kicked off early on the morning of March 9 with the Long Distance Sailboat Race, a 20-nautical-mile challenge featuring six boats. This open sailing event welcomed all boats, including BSM vessels. With an 11 a.m. start, racers enjoyed favorable conditions before gathering back at the clubhouse for awards and camaraderie.
March 10 – Songs of Sailors: Ships and the Sea
Our talented PPYC ensemble entertained members and guests from 4:30–6:30 p.m. with a lively selection of maritime favorites. Performers included John Sauer, Ann Singer, Dean Wiley, Jamie Jones, Debra Broxterman, and Pam Stewart—all familiar faces from our bi-monthly Jam Sessions and Music on the Lawn. Now in its fifth year as part of Fleet Week, this beloved event once again filled the Harbor View Deck with members, family, and friends. The music ranged from rollicking to reflective, and audience participation was enthusiastically encouraged!
March 12 – Blessing of the Fleet & Eight Bells Memorial
Fleet Week concluded with a meaningful day of tradition. The afternoon began with the Traditional Blessing of the Fleet, an age-old ceremony in which vessels parade past Platinum Point Yacht Club while the Commodore salutes and local clergy offer prayers for a safe and bountiful season. This beautiful public event drew an impressive crowd.
Following the blessing, members gathered for the Eight Bells Memorial Service, honoring PPYC members who have crossed the bar. With music, prayers, and the ceremonial wreath laid upon the water, the service offered a solemn and heartfelt tribute, the traditional way of saying a sailor’s watch is over.
The day concluded at 5:30 p.m. with a wonderful cocktail and dinner celebration to cap off this special week.
COMMODORE’S BALL
Held in March, the Commodore’s Ball celebrated Drew Myers’ tenure as 2025–2026 PPYC Commodore. This year’s theme, “An Evening on Broadway,” delivered an outstanding night of music, cocktails, dinner, and dancing. Star entertainers performed favorite show tunes while guests arrived in elegant formal attire—sparkling gowns and classic tuxedos filled the room.
As always, it was one of the most anticipated and memorable events of the year, held at the beautiful Isles Yacht Club.
BLESSING OF THE FLEET
UPCOMING EVENTS
• March 30 – Final PPYC sailboat race of the season
• April 6 – Sailing Awards
• Commodore’s Wife’s Luncheon – This year we honor Dora Myers with a delightful “Surprise Ingredient” luncheon. Members will share the recipes for their buffet dishes, and attendees are asked to bring food donations for the Harry Chapin Food Bank.
• April 11 – End-of-Season Party as we bid our winter friends a fond farewell and wish everyone joyous summer adventures.
After all…
True friends are never apart—
Maybe in distance,
But never in our hearts.
