| Photos: Stewart. Illustration: Gerry Wykes |
Summer Discovery Cruises Explore Pirates, Prehistoric Fish, Lighthouses, and Island History While pirates plundered the world’s oceans in the 17th and 18th centuries, the Great Lakes had its own brand of swashbuckling sailors aboard war ships and sailing vessels. These Pirates of the Sweetwater Seas will be the focus of one of several Summer Discovery Cruises sponsored this year by Michigan Sea Grant Extension and the Huron-Clinton Metroparks . Participants aboard the pirate-themed cruise will embark on a historic journey, while they learn a smattering of pirate lingo, how a ship was prepared for war, navigation skills, marlinespike , and the real value of pieces of eight, as they hunt for “treasure.” “They’ll get a feel for what life was like aboard a war ship on the Great Lakes,” says Gerry Wykes of Lake Erie Metropark, adding, “You don’t have to go to the Caribbean to meet people like Jack Sparrow.” The cruise is one of several Summer Discovery Cruises planned in July and August on the lower Detroit River and Lake St. Clair. Another highlight will be the Bob-Lo Island History Cruise, which will explore the shoreline sights and history of this well known island, which was once an amusement park. Author Patrick Livingston will read excerpts from his forthcoming book. The Big River Meander is a four-hour journey to explore the natural and cultural history of the lower Detroit River and its islands. An extended cruise – Wildlife and Wetlands of Lake St. Clair – is also being offered on Lake St. Clair. Other cruises include the popular Fish Tales, River of Time Island Cruises, Flowing Ideas Art Cruises, Photography Cruises, and Eagle’s Eye Nature Cruises. And those aboard for one of the Lake St. Clair Fisheries Cruises will meet the amazing sturgeon, a giant fish with a prehistoric look and an amazing story, along with a variety of other Great Lakes species. New this year on Lake St. Clair will be a Lighthouse Exploration Cruise led by a representative from the Save Our South Channel Lights organization. “We’re looking forward to this year’s cruises featuring Great Lakes nature, history, fisheries, art and photography, lighthouses, wetlands, and even pirates!” says Steve Stewart, Summer Discovery Cruise program director. “Anyone who likes to get on the water and learn about the Great Lakes is encouraged to participate. There’s something for everyone!” Summer Discovery Cruises are open to the public (ages 6 and up) and will take place on the lower Detroit River and Lake St. Clair during the period July 27 through August 22. Cost for adults is $15, and $10 for children under 18. |