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The Columbus Day Regatta weekend (Columbus
Day Regatta 2004) is a weekend like none other in Biscayne Bay or in
South Florida or in the continental United States. Many professional partygoers
have stated that this event makes the "Marti Gras" in New Orleans look
tame. This is supposed to be about a Regatta. A very respectable
sport with a grand and diverse tradition. Sailboats line the horizon
of Biscayne National Park by the thousands. The leeward side of Elliott
Key with its miles of crystal clear water over miles of virgin seagrass
is a virtual parking lot filled with every type of boat imaginable. Elliott
Key is located 15 - 18 miles south of Key
Biscayne, and just south of Soldier Key, the Ragged Keys, Boca Chita,Sands
Key, and Sands Cut and in that order.(map)
If it floats and you can get people on it, chances are that you will
see it here during this event. |
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The occupants of the vessel may or may
not be clothed. That may or may not be fun to see. But that
is the reality of the Columbus Day Regatta "Finishing Line" party
area. People come from all over the world for a very large series
of parties and the boat race that lasts at least three days every year,
weather
permitting. A hedonistic celebration perhaps most
accurately describes the none stop music, dancing, drinking in excess,
and clothing optional atmosphere that continues on for miles and for days
(and at nights too). Water guns, inflatable toys of every category imaginable,
flags that have never been seen before, and a general over all attitude
of "anything goes" contributes to the sense that "we are not in Kansas
anymore". |
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If you would just like to navigate your
boat in and through the miles of swimmers, floaters, rafts of large boats,
inner-tubes, canoes, kayaks, flying beads, and girls who do happen to be
wearing a top, flash you, you can expect to get soaking wet. Tradition
dictates that everyone should have, fully loaded, water-soaking water guns
of the largest size available, along with a selection of water balloons.
Guys and girls who look like they are just floating around under the surface
who give you a nice smile are about to completely soak you with a six foot
watergun. Be prepared to get wet, or to retaliate. It is all done
in good fun. Loud dancing music, salsa, rock music fills the air
along the smell of high octane fuel, high octane adult beverages, beer,
and suntan lotion. The party does not stop. The sky is full
of sunburn quality sun, kites, phallic inflatables, and flying bead necklaces
into the hands of topless bathers of every persuasion. All a 30 minute
boat ride from Key Biscayne. |
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