It will be "anchors aweigh" when guests set sail on Saturday, June 21 for a Detroit River cruise and tea dance aboard the Diamond Belle, a mini-ship that was built in 1958 and operated as a Mackinac Island Ferry until the 1980s.
Landlubbers and sailors alike will enjoy three levels of fun, light refreshments, a 50/50 raffle, two cash bars, dancing on the top deck under the sun, and a special performance by Miss MIC 2014 Lisa Summers.
The three-hour cruise accommodates up to 250 guests and offers a summertime panoramic view of the Detroit and Windsor shorelines.
Proceeds will benefit the Motown Invitational Classic (MIC), Michigan's oldest and largest LGBT bowling tournament.
The two-day tournament, which takes place every October in metro Detroit, attracts hundreds of bowlers from across the US and Canada for a weekend filled with friendly competition, hospitality events and a formal awards banquet.
"The annual MIC summer boat cruise has always been 'full to the gunwales,' attracting a great crowd every year since 2007," said 2014 MIC Co-Director Bill Havican. "We are proud to host events throughout the year that celebrate the friendships our organization has created while presenting meaningful opportunities to meet new friends along the way."
Boarding for the cruise starts at 12:45 p.m. and takes place at Stroh's River Place, which is just south of Jefferson Ave. on Joseph Campau St. at the Detroit River.
The Belle returns to dock at 4 p.m., however, guests won't be left "high and dry" when the cruise ends. The official after party and barbeque takes place immediately following featuring the return of Lady T Tempest with the revival of the Gas Station's wet jockey contest at the new Menjo's Complex located at 928 W. McNichols in Detroit.
The Gas Station was a gay club in Detroit during the 70s and 80s and grew in popularity thanks in part to the legendary performer.
All boat cruisers will receive VIP entry that includes a complimentary gift and raffle ticket to win a gift basket with $250 in cash and prizes.
"At Menjo's, you'll find affordable drink prices, handsome hosts, great music, special events plus a unique shopping experience throughout the week," said Menjo's General Manager Tim McKee. "We are thrilled to host MIC as the official after cruise party and invite everyone to come out and enjoy the festivities even if you can't make it to the boat."
Tickets are $25 each and can be purchased while supplies last at Menjo's and Steven B's Barber Shop in Ferndale.
Any remaining tickets will be sold at the dock the day of the cruise.
For tickets and information, contact 2014 MIC Co-Director Bill Havican at 313-727-4101 or via email at [email protected].
For more information regarding the Motown Invitational Classic, visit http://www.mictournament.org.
