Capt. Chris Crolley and Capt. Henry Brandt on board the Ibis.
The big reward after designing and building a new vessel is getting to do the maiden voyage. Last week, Capt. Chris Crolley and Capt. Henry Brandt boarded our 50-foot, 49-passenger ferry for the first time in Fort Pierce, Florida and took it home to Beaufort via the Instacoastal Waterway. With overnight stops at Cocoa Beach and Fernandina Beach, Florida where they slept aboard the boat, they were able to get back in three days.
Manatees in Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge
It was an ever-changing landscape that drifted from tropical to sub-tropical landscapes as they headed north. As they travelled through places like Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, they were surrounded by an aggregation of manatees, so they just cut off the motors for a while and took in the moment. Of the birds, white pelicans and roseate spoonbills (with the deepest pink colorations!) were the highlights.
Finally at the home slip in Beaufort!
Now that Ibis is home in her slip at the Beaufort Marina downtown, it is ready to take people out to see the beauty of the Lowcountry. Built for larger tours and groups, Ibis is a fully-covered passenger ferry that is perfect for enjoying a sunset or cruising by the waterfront. Sign up for a scheduled tour, or call us up for a private tour with your group!