Yule-themed event draws rave reviews
by Tom Chillemi –
The Jackson Creek Christmas cruises are a Deltaville tradition. Grandparents make memories with their grandchildren, fans of Christmas get a taste of the good ol’ days and even the spirits of “doubters” are renewed through this annual holiday event that offers unusual views of Christmas decorations and so much more.
In 2021, those taking the cruises drove to Deltaville Marina, where there is room to park. Floating docks made easier boarding the cruise boat “Lucky Lady,” which was built in 1985 on Deltaville’s Broad Creek by Robert Green. Current owners “Puddin” and Karen Glasco bought her in Delaware and brought her home to run fishing charters. Bailey Hall is her regular captain.
A new format
There was a festive air on the docks enhanced by costumed elves wearing green and even the “Grinch,” played by Kelly Costello. “It’s fun to see the reaction on their faces,” she said.
This was the first year elves were the dock hands who helped tie up the charter boat. Jackie Ruse and her daughter Heidi Ruse came up with the idea that added a fanciful touch. Other elves included Dave Springer, Taylor Douglas and Chris McClure. Cooper Ruse was festooned in a costume that made him look like Santa was carrying him.
Welcome aboard
Lucky Lady is approved to carry 22 passengers at night, said Captain “Puddin” Glasco, so the 55-foot-long boat was not crowded and everyone had a good seat. “It’s terrific,” said Bob Hammond of Wake who, along with his wife Jane, was on their their first Christmas cruise. The boat even had a heater in the passenger cabin, a nice touch for those chilled by the night air.
On Dec. 10, the cruise eased away from the dock at 4:15 p.m. on a cloudy day. The decorations highlighted a world that was turning gray as the sun slipped below the horizon. “It’s great,” said Dean Wyatt of Deltaville, who was on the cruise with his wife Dale. “We get to see the best of both worlds.”
Ann and Jim Astrove said they are “bi-tidal” because they own a house in Richmond and Deltaville. “I’ve wanted to do this for years,” said Ann Astrove. They enjoyed seeing the houses from the water. “It’s fabulous to see them from a different perspective,” he said. “The community spirit is evident.”
Few could dispute that.
As the group disembarked at the dock, Kate Whelan of Charlottesville said to her friends, “It was lovely, inspiring. I found three houses to buy.”
