I TREAT LOOPERS..... as I would like to be treated!

I was honored at the recent Spring Rendezvous this past week, in New Bern NC with the “TRUE NORTH AWARD” as the Harbor Host of the Year! I humbly accepted the award on behalf of all Harbor Host and especially those who passed through Tarpon Springs on their loop. Many were kind enough to cast a vote for me. I’m sorry if you didn’t stop by and missed one of the best experiences on the whole trip!

It is always an honor to be recognized by your peers and this is no exception and certainly no small award. It is given annually to recognize those, who provide assistance to Looper’s on their journey along the route. There are many host who are just as deserving as I. They are standing by, awaiting your call for their help, so please don’t hesitate to make that call.

I was even more honored to have the award presented by Patsy Conrad, who along with her late husband Tom, were themselves Harbor Hosts and their boat “True North” is where the award gets it’s name. Some members may remember Tom as the original “Weatherman”, who advised us when to travel. Patsy continues to serve as a Harbor Host in Southport NC today.

I’m often asked what a Harbor Host actually does! Simply stated, we make your trip easier. We don’t turn down your beds or put a mint on your pillow at night, but when you want a diver to check your props & shafts after you “snag a trap”…. we’re there. You want maps, names of reputable mechanics or more importantly, best food stops, there we are again. Bicycle paths, dog parks, churches, dentist, yoga classes, batteries, grocery stores, laundry facilities, clinics, fudge, craft beers, and anything else you can name it in our area…. then we can help! We give you a sense of security and you can depend on us! Use the App to find us. Select the Globe, then Member Resources, then ALL Member Resources, then scroll down to Harbor Hosts.

A quick pitch for my Greek village of Tarpon Springs, FL. There is NO place better to relax after the journey across the Gulf…. None! Take a left turn at R2, go up the Anclote River, stay in the channel, and you’ll have absolutely no problem and be there in 20 minutes…. met by the Harbor Host. Do Not Believe the “Fake News” you hear about shallow depths. My boat has a 5’ draft and I move whenever I want.  A newer first-class facility with floating docks and no current awaits you. Step off the boat and in 5 minutes you are relaxing at one of the best fish restaurants on the loop, enjoying a glass of wine. Walk down the sponge docks, only 10 minutes end to end, you’ll see a real Greek village in operation, all without the expense of a flight to Europe…. and that Greek food is to die for, including the octopus in garlic. As a bonus, if crab claws are in season, we’ll go see James, for some fresh off his boat, when he comes in. I’ll leave the range marker light on for you…. and see you when you get here!