While the two forwards enjoyed the personal watercraft, other players like defenseman Zach Bogosian preferred the calmer ride of a pontoon boat while surrounded by fans in their own boats. When the parade reached the Tampa Bay Convention Center, the players showered fans with champagne as the boats congregated for a celebration similar to the Gasparilla Festival held in Tampa at the end of January.
"Who does a boat parade?" Stamkos said. "That is amazing. I think that's the first time ever. It is so cool to be a part of. This is something you remember forever."
From there, the players passed the Cup from boat to boat, some holding it high for the fans and others taking a drink from it. Eventually, it got to defenseman Victor Hedman, the winner of the Conn Smythe Trophy voted as Stanley Cup Playoff MVP, who raised the two trophies as cheers erupted from the crowd.
The scene was something defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk said he will always remember.
"A lot of us came home not knowing what to expect, especially with COVID-19," Shattenkirk said. "Today made it feel real … that we won the Stanley Cup, and we were able to see how special it was for the people of Tampa. This was so special, I had tears in my eyes all day."