Raft Ups

An impromptu raft up was called while we were anchored in the Barra De Navidad lagoon and it was great fun to share with our guests, Phil & Anna, what cruiser’s do when they want to have a potluck in an anchorage. Shortly after the morning net, Fran on “Gosling” came on the radio to make an announcement that there would be a raft up at 5pm that evening to take place behind “Optical Illusion”. Everyone should bring an appetizer to share, something to drink, boat cards to exchange and any books and/or movies they wanted to trade.

Anna made some wonderful Italian meatballs to share, we put a few cervezas in a tote along with a couple books I’d finished reading, the boat cards and we were off. Janet & Bill from “Optical Illusion” had just arrived and set the dinghy anchor. We tied up to them and dropped our anchor as well. Dinghies began arriving from around the anchorage and before long there were about 20 tied together and floating peacefully as the sun began to set. For the next hour appetizers were shared, books traded and boat cards exchanged. Bill was “master of ceremonies” and began by introducing himself and Janet, telling a little about where they are from, where they are going and what they enjoy about cruising. Around the circle of dinghies we went with each couple sharing information about who they are, where they’ve been and, of course, similar cruising experiences and information.

By 7pm we were back at the boat and so full of hors d’oeuvres that no one had room for dinner.

Raft ups are a big part of the cruising experience. If there is one thing cruisers enjoy it is eating and sharing stories and experiences…the good, the bad and, especially, the ugly. Some folks stay mainly in marinas but those of us who are financially challenged and would prefer not having to return to the working world do as much anchoring as possible. Many times these anchorages are in places where there are no facilities where one can put on a potluck and it is a rare cockpit that can comfortably accommodate guests from 20-30 boats. Thus, the “raft up” was born. It’s a great way to get to know the other people who are “out there”, share experiences and enjoy good food and good company.