Thousands gather for 29th annual FlotillaWRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, NC (WECT) - The 29th annual Flotilla took place on Saturday night at Wrightsville Beach.
Twenty-two boats participated in the event this year, last year there were only 13. Organizers say they were expecting around 50,000 people to show up.
Some people watching said they come out every year and watch from their boats which are docked from the Marine Max.
"It's just beautiful," said Barbara Lane, whose been watching the Flotilla for 20 years. "It really is something if you haven't seen it you wouldn't be able to believe it."
Others said this was their first time.
"This is our first year having Thanksgiving in NC and we've always wanted to come down here," said Stephan Swift. "We decided this year we would do it since we are staying in town."
The boats were judged on everything from Best in Show, to Peoples Choice, to the boat with the most spirit.
The following is the list of winners, according to flotilla officials:
- Best in Show: Captain Skip Wilson, Bottom Line, "North Pole Fair"
- People's Choice: Captain David Salling, Ranger 1, "Rudolph the Redtail Stingray"
- Best Powerboat 31′ and over: Captains Paula Sturdy and Van Marr, Reel Hot, "Hooked on Catch'n a Christmas Wish"
- Best Powerboat 23′ to 31′: Captains Brian & Helen Buckley, Refugee, "Margaritaville Christmas"
- Best Powerboat 22′ and under: Captain Ricky Baggs, Soundwave, "Musical Christmas Tree Lightshow"
- Best Sailboat: Captains Menno and Valerie Baars, Eyra, "O' Christmas Tree"
- Best Costumes and Crew Spirit: Captain Dean Brennan, Coastie, "South of the Boarder Christmas"
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