Monday, July 20, 2009

It's a pirate's life for thee aboard Jose Gasparilla


This scene does have a Pirates of the Caribbean, Disneyesque look to it. Actually, it's the aft section of the pirate ship Jose Gaspar. Owned by Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, it is used each year in the Krewe's invasion of the city. Hundreds of pirates take the key to the city and crowd on board their ship that then leads a huge flotilla of invaders and funseekers across Hillsborough Bay and into the channel. After docking at the Tampa Convention Center, the pirates invade the streets in a huge parade. The ship sits tied to its dock on the Bayshore for the remainder of the year and draws tourists and the curious who gaze upon its quiet, empty decks listening for whispered tales of rum, guns, beads and treasure to be found in Tampa. Come February, it will again take to the high seas as its motley, brazen Krewe of pirates take over our fair city for a day.

2 comments:

  1. I like its colorful ornamentation.
    I sure hope you'll attend parade next year. Sounds like a lot of fun and I would love to see your photos, and read your commentary! ;)

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  2. I love the way you've caught the reflection in the water.The invasion soounds fun. Do you have photos?

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