Central Park was flooded with hundreds of spectators who flocked to the beach to experience the spectacle that is the Holiday Boat Parade.

The fourth annual lighted boat parade took place on Saturday, December 5, 2009 and the sights and sounds of the holiday spirit did not fail to entertain.

The light show on water featured boats of all types and sizes which boasted colorful twinkling lights, music, singing and dancing. Decorations on the boats included a giant Christmas star, Santa’s sleigh led by mini boats, a Dorado leaping into a boat, Santa para sailing, a nativity scene and Santa Claus everywhere. All of this only to get San Pedro and Ambergris Caye into the Christmas spirit and to kick off the year’s tourism season.

The crowds that gathered at different view station cheered and applauded as the boats paraded in front of town. The folks at Central Park enjoyed the Christmas spirit and music, picture taking with Santa, purchased commemorative T-shirts and souvenirs and delicacies to drink and eat. Re/Max Isla Bonita sponsored the Mayor’s Trophy in this year’s competition.

Below are the winners of this year’s Holiday Boat Parade:

Power:

• Under 18′ 1st place: Jetski Russia/ SP Water Sports
• 26-34′ 1st place: Lion’s Club/Tanisha Tours
• 35′ and up 1st place: Holy Cross Anglican School
• 2nd place: Coastal Express/Island Academy

Sailboat:

• Rum Punch/George Eiley

Catamaran:

• 1st Place: Isla Bonita Elementary School/SeaDuced
• 2nd Place: Escape/Searious Adventures

Most Adventurous: Infinity/Ecologic Divers

Most Artistic: Island Waves/Funtasea Boats

Best Religious: Holy Cross Anglican School

Best Over All: Coastal Express/Island Academy

Junior Division School Competition: Isla Bonita Elementary School

Mayor’s Trophy: Coastal Express/Island Academy

The judges were: Joycelyn McKoy of the Belize Tourism Board; Miss San Pedro Raquel Badillo; Mrs. Ros Emberely; Jim Janmohamed, Charlene Woods of BC’s and Mayor Elsa Paz.