Event Highlights: 2022 Summer Launch Party
Worth Avenue Yachts was eager to return to Roche Harbor for the second annual Summer Launch Party. Arriving just in time for the gorgeous summer weather to grace the resort. The itinerary was packed with memorable activities, mouthwatering meals, and meaningful opportunities. We hope you enjoy reminiscing this wonderful event and look forward to experiencing the magical splendor with you again next year!
Day One
Worth Avenue Yachts was eager to return to Roche Harbor for the second annual Summer Launch Party. Arriving just in time for the gorgeous summer weather to grace the resort, guests tucked into their slips on the dock before the welcoming wine tasting was underway.
Presented by Lachini Vineyards and Kinona the docks were buzzing with excitement as visitors began mingling. Old friends reunited, new friendships took form, and families connected to unwind and relax. Women’s golf and life apparel brand, Kinona, showcased their new summer line providing the excellent opportunity to grab a new outfit for the upcoming golf scramble or chip and sip. While receiving their gift bags, guests sipped on a range of local wines provided by Lachini Vineyards.
The evening elevated during the orange and white kickoff dinner. Held in the heart of the resort at the pavilion, a sea of orange flooded the patio, where managing partner Ray Prokorym announced the three lucky winners of the Kenmore Air scenic flight giveaway. Chef Shaw then worked his magic, taking us to exquisite charter destinations around the world using authentic cuisine.
A favorite among guests was the Sea of Cortez featuring Wild Mexican White Prawns and Grilled Oysters. Cracked Conch Fritters, Fried Plantains with Honey-Sweet Pepper Sauce, and Aromatic Basmati Rice with Crab were the highlight of the Bahamas. Meanwhile the Italian Riviera wowed with Butternut Squash Ravioli Tossed in fresh Genoese Pesto Sauce and Potato Gnocchi with Toasted Walnut Cream Sauce. Just when you thought your plate was full you passed by Greece which featured Dolmadakia, Spit Roasted Leg of Lamb with Mint Au Jus, and Fingerling Potatoes with Onion and Feta Cheese.
After the traditional colors ceremony, guests returned to San Juan Island for a decadent dessert of Local Apple Pie with Caramel Crumble and Cinnamon Ice Cream. As the sun set over the marina casting its orange glow over the glassy water, the stage was set for a perfect weekend to be shared together in this historic seaside paradise.
Day Two
Friday morning began with breakfast on the dock. A cool breeze drifted across the water carrying a hint of ocean spray with it, no doubt an incomparable way to experience the natural beauty of Roche Harbor. The overwhelming choices of pastries, fresh fruit, and egg scramble selections complimented the atmosphere. Captain Ryan Davis then took the stage to capture the audience with his tips and suggestions for making safety a priority while cruising the waters beyond. His advice, built on years of experience, motivated guests to follow in his footsteps and create safe boating practices.
Activities continued as groups departed towards their chosen adventure. Golfers grabbed their clubs and met the shuttle, ready to perfect their swing during a 9-hole best ball scramble at the San Juan Golf Course. Laughs could be heard echoing through the course as groups of golfers adorned in orange played for bragging rights.
Meanwhile at McMillan’s Dining Room, Chef Shaw provided a showstopping experience. Complete with individual wine pairings, the four-course tasting menu demonstrated new recipes and techniques in his superior cooking class. Everyone met back on the docks to share their favorite moments from the day’s activities. Boasting of their perfect put on the green and celebrating their newfound skills in the kitchen.
While enjoying light bites and a refreshing beverage, the cheerful sound of giggling radiated from the docks. Friendly games of Jenga, Yahtzee, Connect Four, and more captivated the players and the audience with their friendly competitions. The night concluded under the glow of the orange lights twinkling on the dock, impeccably complimenting the surrounding scenery.
Day Three
As the sun rose over the emerald-green trees in the distance, Chef Shaw astonished guests yet again with his breakfast creations. The Butchart Garden’s Orange Marmalade French Toast, Roasted Rosemary Fingerling Potatoes, Country Breakfast Sausage and Crisp Bacon, and the Northwest Salish Cedar Plank Roasted Tyee King Salmon was just the beginning. Chef Shaw himself created custom omelets on the dock, a unique experience you won’t be able to find anywhere else. After feasting on the extravagant breakfast, complete with mimosas, Jess Newley of Be Whale Wise spoke about how boaters can enjoy whale watching from their own yacht this summer. She shared insight on how whales behave, what whales inhabit the cool Washington waters, and where you can find them.
After a brief respite, the skilled technicians from Philbrook’s Shipyard met with guests onboard their boats. Assisting with any questions or requests they may have to make the summer boating season successful in every sense.
In front of the Lime Kiln the bocce ball courts were dominated by a tournament what would put March Madness to shame. As teams quickly picked up the techniques and strategies of the game, tension built as to who would be walking back a winner. Back on the docks the floating green was set, chipping wedges arrived, and the floating golf balls were placed. Everyone attempted three shots to hit the barge, the green, and the flag. With every winning shot money was donated to the Friday Harbor Fire Recovery Grant, benefitting businesses and individuals effected by the fire in Friday Harbor. Thanks to all who participated, over $5,700 was donated to the Economic Development Council of San Juan County.
Dinner was hosted at Shipwreck Beach, lounge chairs lined the shores, tables dotted the picturesque tent on the beach, and the smell of barbeque wafted through the air. Once again the mouthwatering food dazzled everyone. The Voodoo Chicken with Mojo Salsa, 24-Hour Smoked Wagyu Brisket, and Wild Bill’s Barbeque Baby Back Pork Ribs, along with all the fixings created a quintessential beach barbeque. The grand finale of the weekend was most certainly the smores roasted over a warm fire as the sunset in the distance. Everyone gathered around, sharing their favorite smores variations, joking of moments from the weekend, and discussing their future boating itineraries. Dusk darkened and the fire smoldered, concluding a weekend like no other.
Day Four
Everyone awoke to gaze upon the shimmering water beyond, inviting every boat to cruise through the smooth waters. Guests signed The Log, sharing their well-wishes and memories, before grabbing one (or two) of the orange and white donuts. Lines were thrown and friendly waves and goodbyes followed, everyone cruised away welcoming in the summer boat season as they went. Worth Avenue Yachts kindly thanks all of those who attended the 2022 Summer Launch Party, and hope to see you again next year!
