Gulfport, Miss., Apr. 20 -- The seventh annual "Boaters' Rendezvous and Blessing of the Fleet" was last held two years ago 12 miles off Gulfport on Ship Island, an island in the Gulf Islands National Seashore chain. The rendezvous has turned into a huge annual party, which goes by the many nicknames of Blowout, Beach Bash, Mardi Gras on the Water, and others. In 2001 there were more than 2,000 boats anchored along a half-mile stretch of beach, with an estimated 12,000 to 15,000 people in attendance.The event has gained in popularity throughout the years and draws thousands of people with the sole intent of partying and drinking. It has Quickly become the second largest gathering on the Gulf Of Mexico, Second only to Jimmy Buffett Day in Key west. Most of the proceeds are donated to the park service to help maintain Ship Island. This years event is weather and bird neesting permitting scheduled for Sunday June 1, 2003.