Dear Sanibel Island,
Over the past 37 years, the Stewart family and Adventures in Paradise have been dedicated to the preservation of the history and nature of our waters and islands, always working hand in hand with The City of Sanibel, & the community.
When Hurricane Ian pounded Sanibel on September 28, taking out portions of the Sanibel Causeway Bridge. Captain Noah Stewart arrived early morning of September 29 at Port Sanibel Marina to find 4 out of 5 of the Adventures in Paradise 49 passenger boats were still floating. He immediately jumped on one of the boats and headed over to the island to locate his brother & family to return them to the mainland. Seeing the extent of the devastation and the condition of the bridge, he began shuttling City of Sanibel staff, police, & fire fighters to begin Search and Rescue’s on the island. Joined by Captain Evan Bogdon and the Adventures in Paradise staff members, shuttles were operated 7 days a week, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM, for three weeks straight, moving everything from people, birds, dogs, cats, generators, ATV’s, refrigerators, Red Cross supplies, Samaritan’s Purse supplies, US Coast Guard & National Guard personnel & equipment. Asked why? Captain Noah replied, “It had to be done, we had the equipment, the expertise, and just wanted to do whatever it took to help our island.”
Adventures in Paradise and the Stewart Family would like to thank the City of Sanibel, the City Council, & all the volunteers for their support & cooperation in getting a footing back on the island!
As we all recover from Hurricane Ian, let us always humbly remember that we are an island family, dedicated to bringing our Sanibel back to her healthy, happy, natural environment for all to enjoy in our very bright future!
# Sanibel Strong!
Craig & Evelyn Stewart
