August 7, 2010
Launch Event
This morning the Oceana Latitude was moved from Dania Beach to Pier 66 in Fort Lauderdale. As the vessel cruised down the intracoastal, fisherman and other boaters were quick to say hello after learning about our expedition in the news.
As a majority of the Oceana crew continued to prepare for the launch of the expedition, a few of us worked to set-up for the launch event onboard the vessel. The event ended up being a huge success, with more than 75 guests in attendance from 5:30 to 8 p.m. The event brought together local politicians and business leaders as well as members of the media and scientific community. Special guests included Spanish model Almudena Fernandez and Fort Lauderdale Mayor John P. “Jack” Seiler. Fox Miami arrived shortly before the event to set down with Xavier Pastor and Dr. Michael Hirshfield to talk about the expedition. The Washington Times and local magazine Go Riverwalk also showed up at the event.