On September 28, about 400 guests enjoyed Sips & Ships, an annual event of the Santa Barbara Sea Shell Association (SBSSA) to raise funds for its family-run youth sailing program. The sprawling event encompassed all of Santa Barbara Harbor’s Marina One, where 17 boats welcomed guests on board and docks were lined with food, beverages, and silent auction offerings.
Many guests were former or current SBSSA participants, while others came out simply to enjoy the scenic harbor, tour beautiful boats, and enjoy the festivities. This year even featured live entertainment, with the band Spring Loaded performing on the bow of a boat. Owners of motorboats and sailboats generously welcomed guests on board, where they were free to tour the boats above and below deck and sit down, chat, and relax.
Boat owners, including Paula and Jeff Clark, are enthusiastic supporters of SBSSA. The Clarks had spent every Sunday from April to October for 12 years with Sea Shells, with their three kids having participated in the program. Their eight-foot dinghy in their Sea Shells days was their first boat, and the next one, 20 years later, was Sea Larks, a 50-foot Xquisite Yacht X5 Sail Catamaran, upon which they welcomed guests at the event. They have traveled in this gorgeous boat around Central America and the Caribbean, and next year plan on heading to the South Pacific. “The Sea Shell organization has a special place in our hearts.” Paula related. “We raised our kids at Sea Shell beach … [and] made friendships that have lasted the test of time and memories to cherish forever.”