There is a saying on St. John that if someone throws out the Boat Card, all bets are off – i.e., you are free of all previous obligations, expressed or otherwise, because someone has invited you to go on a BOAT.
Unless you own a boat, going on a boat is typically not a common occurrence. Boating is expensive! Gas prices alone will scare even boat owners away some days, and if you’re chartering a boat for the day, expect to pay at least $500.
So when someone with a boat, asks you to come on said boat, you go. Go! Because you are free. Call that friend you had dinner plans with, or that neighbor you were going to drive to the hospital, and cancel. You are released from punishment and guilt, for you have received, the Boat Card.
On St. John island, one must always respect the Boat Card.