TOPSAIL ISLAND – The 2024 Topsail Flotilla faced chilly and windy conditions, but 13 brave captains weathered the choppy Intracoastal Waterway on Dec. 14.

“It was extremely competitive for first, second, and third-place honors among the captains,” said Tammy Proctor, Greater Topsail Area Chamber of Commerce & Tourism director.

The first-place winner was Boat Number 10, captained by Jason Williford. It featured Santa’s sleigh pulled by several marlin with the lead marlin sporting a Rudolph red nose. On the stern dangled the Grinch. Williford captured first-place honors in the Topsail Flotilla in 2021 also.

Second-place, Boat Number 5, captained by Adam Hawley, featured a brightly lighted Santa and Reindeer aboard the Topsail Voyages.

Third Place, Boat Number 8, Captained by Rick Brown featured a Christmas Pirates theme. Brown has the distinction of winning the flotillas in Swansboro and Jacksonville this year as well.

The winners were honored at the Chamber’s Annual Christmas Party on Dec. 16, hosted by Daddy Mac’s Beach Grille.

 Sea Tow was the premier sponsor of the 2024 Topsail Flotilla. They guided the boats and made certain all boaters were apprised of the Captains’ Rules. Thanks to Sea Tow’s generosity, the Chamber was able to present a $1,000 check to first place, $300 to second place, and $200 to third place. Additional event sponsors were Clark Sneed of Southeastern Yachts, attorneys Rizzo & Blackburn, and Surf City Signs.

The creatively decorated flotilla set sail from Bush Marina to Soundside Park, where they paraded before five judges.

“The flotilla and the Christmas Market were well attended – again,” said Karen Seibert, Chairperson of the Chamber Board of Directors. “This is one of our signature events of the year.”

The 2024 Topsail Flotilla is in dry dock until the 2025 Topsail Flotilla sets sail again on Dec. 13, 2025.