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EAGLE'S EYE NATURE CRUISES
Take a naturalist's tour of the lower Detroit River to discover the rich variety of plant and animal life living here in this area, now a part of the new International Wildlife Refuge. The river is host to a wide variety of habitats from submerged plant beds and shoals to coastal marshes. And yes, we know where the Bald Eagle nests are!
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RIVER OF TIME ISLAND CRUISES
Cruising among the lower Detroit River Islands we search for the geologic past of the river and tell the human stories that shaped the history of her waters. This look at a living riverscape will cover the span of human history from Native American, French and British to rumrunners, soldiers and sailors. Flowered shirts, straw hats and Bermuda shorts are optional on this island cruise!
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FLOWING IDEAS ART CRUISES
Using the river landscape to inspire us, participants will have an opportunity to paint, draw and/or photograph scenes on the Lower Detroit River. Instructors will guide you on your creative journey by teaching techniques of observation, pencil sketching, watercolor painting and photo imaging. Beginners and experienced artists will enjoy this opportunity to capture the essence of this watery world. Some supplies will be made available, but participants are encouraged to bring their own sketchbooks, soft lead pencils and cameras.
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FISH TALES
Since pre-history, the lower Detroit River has been known as a rich fishing ground. Because fishermen tend to embellish the truth about “the one that got away,” this river has also spawned some pretty good fish stories over the centuries. Join us for an all around look at fish ecology, commercial fishing history, and the re-telling of a few “whoppers” (some actually true). We'll peek at prime fish habitats with the underwater cam, take a close look at some fish specimens and historic artifacts/photos along the way.
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Illustration by Gerry Wykes |
PIRATES OF THE SWEETWATER SEAS
Ahoy to all lads, lasses (kids 6 and older) and their elders (under 105 years old). Come on board the good ship “White Pearl” for a Sweetwater Seas adventure and get a taste of life aboard an 18th/19th century sailing ship. Aside from pearls of knowledge, the river holds a treasure and we’ll learn how to navigate to the “X” on the map in order to find it. Crew members will need to learn how to swab the deck, tie knots, read the weather, speak like a sailor (not swear like one!), and do battle before they can get their share of the booty, however. There are no Krakens here about, but plenty of stories to tell about the Cat-O-Nine Tails, Blood Lapping Bears, keel hauling, and a vicious battle with a One-armed Captain. Eye-patches and peg legs optional.
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BIG RIVER MEANDER
Enjoy an extended four-hour cruise to explore the natural and cultural history of the Lower Detroit River and its islands. Our journey around the north end of Grosse Ile and into Canadian waters will provide ample opportunities to view manmade structures such as the swing bridges, navigation lights, and passing ships as well as observe bird life, discuss aquatic ecology, and explain why the Detroit River is not really a river at all. Along the way, we’ll meet up with Mama Juda and find out who put the “Fight” into Fighting Island. This one has it all.
Note: This cruise has an additional cost of $5 per participant.
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BOB-LO ISLAND HISTORY CRUISE
Award winning author Patrick Livingston will lead this tour around Bob-lo Island. Cruise participants will explore the critical role the island played in the lives of Native Americans and Canadians, French coureurs de bois, British military, Detroit businessmen and the millions of people who escaped to Bob-lo for a one day holiday over the past century. Livingston will read excerpts from his forthcoming book on the history of the island as well as share some of the many pictures and brochures that will be used as illustrations. Feel free to bring along your own stories and souvenirs as we cruise back in time to Bob-lo.
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