Florida Man to Begin 5,500-Mile Pontoon Journey in Tierra Verde to Support Local Families Receiving Care through Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay Empowering community members to make a difference in the lives of sick children & their families.
St. Petersburg, FL (June 9, 2025) – Darren Hayes, founder of the Makin Wake movement and Tampa Bay resident, will be embarking on his third and most ambitious journey yet: a 5,500-mile trip around The Great Loop on a pontoon boat to raise awareness and support for Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Tampa Bay.
“This isn’t about boating it’s about hope,” Hayes says. “Every mile is for the families going through the toughest times of their lives. I want them to know they’re not alone.”
On Tuesday, June 10 at 1:00 p.m., Hayes will be launching this expedition from the site of this year’s Makin Wake Title Sponsor, Worldwide Yacht Sales! Located inside of Tierra Verde Marine Resort, community members are encouraged to attend the launch and meet with Hayes prior to him setting sail.
This endeavor will support countless families who are staying at RMHC while receiving essential healthcare services for their children.
Throughout the journey, Hayes will document his expedition across social media, sharing inspiring stories of the families helped by RMHC and the people he meets along the way. His route spans across 20+ states and thousands of waterways, stopping in towns and cities to meet with community members, engage local supporters, and spotlight Makin Wake’s mission.
This water-based adventure marks a new chapter for Makin Wake, combining
determination, community, and compassion in a powerful display of purpose-driven exploration. Hayes has already completed two previous cross-country missions on land to champion the cause.
