Traditions of “Bon Voyage” gatherings continue the tradition of toasting to the safe return of the adventuresome traveler. Whether for the military; for logistical transition; for exploration or for pleasure, travelers on voyages have historically had many isolated days at sea to be creative. My father served in the US Navy and while serving he built a ship in a bottle. During the mid-1800’s, sailors created (or purchased) Sailors’ Valentines which are handmade small boxes decorated with seashells. During that time period, many of the boxes were octagonal but all were small enough to be hand-held easily. These were tokens to be given to ones’ loves upon safe return.

When designing a Bon Voyage party, try to utilize ships in bottles, messages in bottles and/or Sailors’ Valentines to send that centuries’ old wish for safe return. These can also be given as the guests’ gifts.

Another design concept is to set up food stations to represent ports of call. Whether the voyage is based on boating, sailing or cruising the theme can focus on exotic destinations as the romanticism of travel by sailing vessel continues to bond relationships for generations to come. I recommend serving Kelly’s Salmon Skewers. My Salmon Skewers are delicious, easy to prepare and allow for socializing because of the skewer presentation. Peut votre voyage soient sûrs et vos amis soyez nombreux – May your journey be safe and your friends be many! Kelly McBride Loft

Kelly’s Salmon Skewers

Marinate cubed fresh salmon in fresh squeezed lemon juice and white wine. Prepare a tapenade sauté of chopped black olives, chopped green pepper and minced onions with Balsamic vinegar. Sauté in olive oil and drain.

Wrap each salmon cube with a portion of the tapenade and then wrap each cube with a Dover Sole fillet. Repeat the process until a wooden skewer is filled or there are at least two salmon cubes to a skewer.

Slice fresh oranges and place the oranges in the bottom of a baking dish. Place the skewers on the orange slices. Fill the bottom of the baking dish with cranberry juice. Top each salmon cube with touch of olive oil, a sprinkle of pink Himalayan salt and pinch more tapenade. Cover the dish tightly and bake for at least 30 minutes at 400˚F until the fish is cooked. Serve the salmon skewers hot. As the guests depart, offer tokens of unforgettable Forget Me Not gifts for sentimental thoughts when far away!