BIRD'S EYE - Winter 2024

NEWSWORTHY: TROPIC OCEAN AIRWAYS

T he skies over the Bahamas dazzled a little brighter on the 2nd of December when Tropic Ocean Airways reinstated its long-held tradition of Santa’s Seaplane in partnership with Fraser Yachts and Saving the Blue. Four years since its previous flight, old Saint Nick returned to the islands of the Bahamas bringing joy and holiday spirit to a new generation of children with a plane filled with toys and festive cheer. As Tropic Ocean Airways’ seaplane gracefully landed on the cerulean waters of Great Harbour Cay, a crowd of 100 children gathered along the beach, their faces glowing with anticipation. As Santa Claus emerged from the plane door with a bellowing “Ho Ho Ho!”, the young spectators cheered in delight, knowing he was here to bring an early dose of holiday spirit to their island community. Excitement ensued for the next hours as gift after gift emerged from the plane, hand-delivered from the North Pole. Soccer balls, makeup kits, board games - the assortment seemed endless! As Santa Claus and his team of volunteer elves distributed the 150 toys, there wasn’t a sad face in sight. Beyond the toys alone, Santa’s Seaplane delivered a more profound gift - hope renewed and community con- nection rediscovered after a challenging era marked by the pandemic. The joy was palpable as Santa high- fived the older kids and welcomed toddlers for photographs sponsored by Joey Duhon of Drone Home. The afternoon became a celebration of holiday spirit and the delight of childhood rediscovered. The culminating moment arrived unexpectedly when a group of young girls requested makeup lessons from Tropic Ocean Airways’ staff. Impromptu bonding unfolded over blush brushes and lipsticks as dreams of some- day becoming professional makeup artists emerged. In the span of an afternoon, new friendships bloomed through small kindnesses and shared joys. As the setting sun signaled Santa’s Seaplane for departure, gratitude swept the community. Tropic Ocean Air- ways’ commitment to bringing holiday cheer to even more Family Islands in 2024, sparking eager anticipation. The revived initiative also cements an ongoing bond between Tropic Ocean Airways and Great Harbour Cay residents through existing air service partnerships. Most profoundly, the 150 toys and unforgettable memories will continue spreading ripples of joy in young hearts long after the seaplane fades from the dusky pink horizon. Santa’s Seaplane 2023 embodied the spirit of generosity, service and togetherness that epitomizes the meaning of Christmas for communities worldwide.

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