When one partakes in the celebratory traditions of a "bachelor party", sailing is usually the farthest thing on the minds of the testorone- charged individuals who travel near and far in search of beer, music and other timely events....

This past Saturday, I had the pleasure of attending a bachelor party with some friends old and new for a full day of whatever the Brew City could throw at us. It was suiting to have perfect weather to wish a good friend luck as he embarks on a new adventure in life.

Before the weekend started, all interested parties were told that we would be going boating. Boating? Bachelor party? Really? I figured we would set out on Lake Michigan on cramped rusted-out pontoon boat set for disaster. Knowing some of the events that preceded the night before, we made sure we had a plentiful stock of Dramamine.Just in case.

As our crew ventured east towards the McKinley Marina; stocked coolers full of refreshments in tow, anticipation grew. We staggered on the dock and boarded the vessel known as a "catamaran". This was no rusted -out pontoon boat.The 40-foot vessel gleamed in the sunlight w/ the words "FAT CAT " written on its' broadside. Plus the logo w/ a tomcat wearing sunglasses was a nice touch.

After everyone boarded, I found a good seat which was easy to do because the "Fat Cat" catamaran seats up to 35 people. We had a group of 12-15. Our gracious Captains Jim and Alvarez, guided us towards the "big lake". Captain Jim notified the bachelor that his duty was to hoist the main sail. After his "limp wristed" attempt went south; Alvarez grabbed the reins and brought the sail to the top of the mast. We were off into the great wide open.

Spirits were high as we passed through the channel waving at other boaters as our "party boat" cruised on by. A few quick swigs of the beer that made Milwaukee famous we  were out past the breakers kicking back listening to music and enjoying the great day. Not having a extensive background on the layout of the Brew City and surronding communities the FAT CAT trip brought forth extrodinary views of the city scape and landmarks.  We argued extensively on the prominent landmark for which Milwaukee is known for.  Is it the Hoan Bridge or the Calatrava Addition at the Milwaukee Art Museum? More culturally adapt sources claimed it was Hoan Bridge.I agree.

As the hours past, everyone was enjoying the boat ride. Many claimed, " we could stay our here all day". This was very refreshing to hear as the FAT CAT ride was a heathy mix into a day filled with sucking down beers. Captains Jim and Alvarez told us the interesting story how they picked up the boat from Mexico on a whim and sailed it around the Atlantic in route to the Great Lakes. It was a fantastic story; we all envied their free-sprit mentality. I wonder if they had insurance at that time.....j/k.

As we headed back towards the dock, it was evident that Fat Cat Catamaran knew how to entertain. All in all, it was a great experience and really made the day. I would recommend Fat Cat Sailing to anyone who wanted take in the full Milwaukee experience. It accomadates large groups which is fantastic. Great views of the Milwaukee city scapes.After we thanked Jim and Alvarez for the historic voyage; we parktaked in other more common "bachelor party" events.