This is a different take on Gilligan's Island. I decided to start with pre-shipwreck life and give a backstory for each as we saw them before they boarded the SS Minnow for the infamous 3-hour tour. For the sake of this story, I thought it would be interesting/fun to give the Howells a different backstory. Both of them are divorced and have a long-standing feud between the Wentworth/Howell families. At a party the night before the tour, Lovey's friend decides to play matchmaker and sets the two up on a blind date on what she thinks is a luxury cruise around Hawaii. I hope you all enjoy it and have fun with it! BTW: Sherwood owns the characters and the story, I'm just changing things up a bit!

Hawaii, 1964

It was a beautiful summer afternoon in Hawaii. The sun was shining and a breeze was blowing. The hotels and beaches were full of tourists excited for a vacation. Hawaii was always busy in the summer, bringing people together from all over the world for a tropical getaway.

It was a place to go to escape life and just enjoy yourself. For seven unlikely people, it would be fate that would bring them together as they were all in Hawaii for different reasons.

For Kansas native MaryAnn Sommers, it was a trip of a lifetime for the small-town farm girl. She hadn't even ventured outside of the state of Kansas, let alone been on a plane before. It was a radio sweepstake she won giving her full accommodations to the island.

The plane was starting its initial descent towards Hawaii. As MaryAnn stared out the window, her heart fluttered with excitement. Be yourself, and have a good time echoing through her mind as she thought of the conversation she'd had with her aunt just before leaving.

*flashback to hours earlier in Kansas*

As she packed her bags, her aunt sat on the bed watching her niece gathering her clothes for the week-long trip.

" Now remember, don't talk to strangers, and make sure to call the minute you arrive at the hotel. Your uncle and I will be worried sick." She said as she watched MaryAnn folding her clothes.

MaryAnn nodded. " I'll be fine. Of course, you know I'll phone the minute I get there. They arranged for a car to get me from the airport." She said with a smile, reassuring her aunt she'd be okay.

" I still can't believe you won. It took a lot of convincing on my part to get your Uncle Ed to agree. He thinks us country folk don't belong in a place like that. I told him you were responsible and I know you'll be fine. He's the worrier." She chuckled.

Suddenly, the horn of a truck shook both the women from their thoughts.

" I guess Ed is ready to go. Just remember to be yourself and have a good time. I know you will."

MaryAnn smiled and hugged her aunt before she headed to the old pickup truck, with her uncle waiting to drive her to the airport 30 miles away.

" Well folks, we've just touched down here in Hawaii. We hope you've enjoyed your flight. Remember to grab your items before leaving the aircraft. Thank you." The pilot's voice over the intercom interrupted her train of thought. MaryAnn couldn't believe it. Hawaii.

She gathered her things and followed the other passengers off the plane. She took a deep breath and walked towards the baggage claim, eager to get to the hotel and go exploring, maybe find someplace to eat dinner, she was starved!.

Once she got her luggage, she found a driver, a friendly-looking man holding up a sign with her name on it as promised. Around his neck was a lei.

" Aloha! Welcome to Hawaii, Ms. Sommers. Let me get your bags. You can follow me." He handed her the beautiful pink lei he had for her and they headed towards the car.

MaryAnn smiled as they walked outside. She breathed in the fresh, salty air. The driver got her settled and they headed off to the hotel. MaryAnn couldn't do anything but stare out the window of the car, at the people and the sites before her.

She pulled out the envelope she'd kept in her handbag after a while with all the information regarding her trip. She had an island boat tour scheduled for the next afternoon. The sweepstakes had provided a full week of activities for her, allowing her to enjoy a little bit of everything Hawaii had to offer.

She relaxed into the seat as the car drove along towards the hotel. If only my aunt and uncle could see this! I'll have to get a postcard! This is going to be a wonderful week.

Meanwhile, close to the marina, the Captain of the SS Minnow Jonas Grumby and his first mate, Willie Gilligan were enjoying an early dinner watching the tourists walk by as they ate at their favorite diner.

The Barrel had become the usual restaurant they stopped at for dinner each night after a tour. They had become well acquainted with everyone that worked there and enjoyed the food.

" Gee Skipper, it looks like it has been a busy day on the beach today. Maybe we will have more people take a tour tomorrow." Gilligan said as he tore into his second plate of pancakes.

" I hope so. You'd think with summer vacation everyone would be wanting a tour. It's the best way to see Hawaii." He replied as he took a bite of his steak.

" Another beer, Captain?" Flo, their waitress asked with a wink.

" Sure thing." Skipper replied with a blush.

Gilligan smiled at his older friend. He knew his big buddy liked Flo. They had been eating at this little diner near the marina for years. She and the Captain had become fast friends upon their first meeting years ago.

" Say, I wonder why that large crowd is gathering out front. Do you think something happened?" Flo asked, nodding towards the window behind them.

The Skipper and Gilligan were both seated at the counter. They turned to look and saw people gathered in a swarm.

The flashes of cameras and screams caught their attention and he walked to the window to try and catch a glimpse of what was going on.

As he did that, a young girl burst through the door of the diner.

" Gianni, What's all the fuss about?" Flo asked the native girl that often came into the diner.

" Ginger Grant and Rock Hudson! They are here, outside on the beach!"She screamed with excitement.

Skipper let out a chuckle before his eyes went wide with awe. " Did she say, Ginger Grant?!"

With a roll of her eyes, Flo let out a laugh as she got the sea captain another beer.

" Gee Skipper you would think with a crowd like that, it could be somebody famous," Gilligan replied as he tucked into his meal once more.

Skipper took his sailor hat off and belted his little buddy in the arm.

" Gilligan, there are movie stars out there! Rock Hudson and Ginger Grant. Don't you know anything?" He asked as he rolled his eyes.

" I wish it was The Mosquitos. I'd rather see them, Skipper." Gilligan replied.

" You would, Gilligan." The captain muttered as he took a sip of his beer, hoping he could take advantage of all this attention near the water. " Come on, Gilligan!" The captain waved to Flo.

" Goodbye, you two!" Flo called, waving back to them.

Gilligan scurried on outside by his big buddy to catch a glimpse of the celebrities.

They pushed their way through the crowds only to see the starlet and famous movie star being whisked away towards a yacht.

As Gilligan and the Skipper headed towards the crowd, across the beach, a group of local college professors were sitting at a table discussing the research projects they were working on. Many science professors and scientists from around the US were studying tropical plants and animals, along with using plants for medicines.

Professor Roy Hinkley was talking to Professor John Banks from NYU as they met up at the end of the day. Everyone had been out in the field for the whole day researching and were glad to be enjoying dinner and drinks, chatting with each other about their findings.

Roy Hinkley was a professor at UCLA. He taught various science courses for the university and one of them was a study on the different species of tropical plants. He had arrived in Hawaii two days before and had been exploring with a local guide at the designated research spots. So far he'd been able to identify a few new species of plants and was eager to bring his findings and samples back to the lab.

" I think it's wonderful how they've allowed us the summer off from teaching courses and given us an opportunity to do more research," John said as he took a sip of his beer.

Roy nodded, and replied." Yes, even though I've been here for two days now, I'm finding so many samples to bring back to allow my students to examine them. I've already filled up 100 slides. I brought down at least 300. I hope to discover a rare flower or plant species and spend the rest of the year studying the properties to help aid in medical research."

" Did you see the sign posted down at the marina for a three-hour tour? I believe they might even venture to further lands other than what we've seen so far, and maybe slipping the captain a $20 will allow you some research time." John winked.

" I'll look into it. I was planning on joining the others for the conference at the hotel with some of the natives of this island about homeopathic medicines. I'm curious to know more about what's involved with their studies. Besides, it's my last night here in Honolulu, before a few of the other researchers and I move to another location. I don't know if I have the time." he replied.

" Fascinating. Well, we will be heading on a tour of one of the dormant volcanoes tomorrow which seems to be the only thing on my agenda. Our group doesn't leave until next Thursday. I'll join you on that little cruise around Hawaii if you decide to go. I'd like to see more of this place than just the labs and research sites." John said as he took a sip of his tropical drink.

Roy rubbed his neck and thought for a moment. It wasn't a bad idea.

They had already been in Honolulu for two weeks and were moving to various smaller islands and research sites before their research projects came to an end later the following month. As much as he enjoyed working on the projects he planned and all of the research he'd been doing, he figured a little break and a boat cruise wouldn't hurt. Perhaps if some of the other professors joined him, he'd feel more inclined to go. He figured he'd make up his mind on the matter, tomorrow.

It's a three-hour tour, what could possibly happen?

….

Further up the beach, away from all the noise of the busier tourist spots, sat a luxury resort that most only dreamed of having the chance to stay at. The beautiful beachfront property was private and very exclusive to only the richest people in the world. At night, it offered the best views Hawaii had to offer and solitude away from the stock exchange and big businesses. It was an experience you had to see to believe.

While the commotion of celebrities had the attention of the tourists and locals alike, a dinner was taking place in the massive hotel ballroom that overlooked the beach with a life of its own. Everybody who was somebody was in attendance. Women in beautiful, expensive dresses that could only be described as works of art and men in their best suits. Those in attendance were dressed to impress, celebrating a very well known couple at their 25 year wedding anniversary and vow renewal.

It was a very beautiful affair. The cool Hawaiin breeze blowing and painted sky really set the tone for the evening. Dinner had already been served and now it was time for after-dinner drinks and socializing. A band was playing and the night couldn't have been more perfect.

Lovey Wentworth stood in the corner, sipping a glass of champagne chatting with one of her oldest and dearest friends, Charlotte Vanderbilt. She and Lovey were roommates at Vasser and their friendship had continued even after they were married. They were both on the opera board together and the ballet of course. Typical positions for women in their class. They were also both on boards for various charities as well.

" When Lydia wrote and said she and William were renewing their vows, I thought Hawaii was far too common for a Vanderbilt. I'm surprised she and William didn't rent out the Vineyard or the Club. Although you'd know I'd never admit this to anyone but you, it's really been such fun. I can't get Charlie out of his office and William is never home anymore." Charlotte said as she rolled her eyes.

Lovey agreed with a smile. " Quite right. Although, it has been fun exploring somewhere new. I've never been to a public beach before. Last night after the ceremony was finished, I hate to admit it, but I rather enjoyed a nice calm walk along the beach. Hawaii is very beautiful."

" Did you and Montmorency book a suit together?" She asked her friend, almost whispering the question. The two were still trying to keep up appearances about their marriage and had attended the vow renewal together.

Lovey shook her head." I made sure to get separate rooms. I figured he would be cordial at least for the ceremony and party, but he's been anything but. Oh Charlotte, I don't know why I ever married that man! It's a good thing we've divorced." Lovey confided to her friend.

" A very good thing. You know how I feel about him. Look on the bright side, at least you two don't have children together. I know divorce can be such a-"

Charlotte quickly shut her mouth as she noticed her friend had stiffened up a bit as she said this. Lovey had lost her happy glow about her.

" Yes, I suppose it is," Lovey replied quietly, taking a long sip of champagne.

Charlotte only nodded, keeping her opinions of Montmorency to herself. She didn't want to be unladylike. After hearing how he treated Lovey over the past 22 years of their marriage, she was very happy Lovey was no longer married to that man.

It wasn't very common for society people to divorce and was frowned upon. Lovey was, however, a Wentworth. Her last name carried quite a bit of weight throughout their social strata, so the divorce was done quickly and quietly, not becoming front-page news. Lovey wanted to keep it that way.

" You deserve to be happy, Lovey. You really do. Maybe you'll meet someone soon. You deserve your Prince Charming!" Charlotte said with a smile.

Lovey threw her head back and laughed. " Oh really darling, I'm quite content with being a single lady again."

Charlotte stares her friend down and raises her brow. " Are you really?"

Lovey nodded. " Of course. I'll be just fine. Oh, there is Lydia...excuse me, I'm going to say hello. I only briefly saw her last night and I'd like a word with her."

And just like that, Lovey was off in a flurry. She didn't wish to discuss her failed marriage. It was in the past and she intended to keep it that way, only with Charlotte. Nobody else in their social circle knew. It remained on the back burner of the gossipers of the group.

After Lovey had disappeared into the crowd, Charlotte looked around for Montmorency and figured he was long gone. He wasn't at the bar, nor with the usual men he hung around. She tried to enjoy the rest of her champagne and not worry about her friend.

Over in the corner, she spotted an old friend of her husband's. Thurston Howell III. He was just walking over to a group of men after leaving the bar. After a few moments, an idea popped into her head. He too looked rather lonely. She hoped her friend wouldn't be too mad with her after she put her plan to action.

The millionaire was speaking with her husband, Charlie, and a few other men. She wandered over and pulled Charlie away from the group.

" Darling- we were in the middle of a very important discussion on deducting this trip. What's the matter?" Charlie asked.

" Well it's a matter of the heart darling," Charlotte said with a devious smile.

" Who's heart?" He knew what she was getting at.

" Our poor Lovey. She is having the most dreadful time. Montmorency has spoiled her fun. You know dear, I think she deserves someone to make her happy and then I had the most wonderful idea. Thurston's still single isn't he?" she asked.

An amused smile crept upon Charlie's face and he chuckled. " Now Charlotte. Now's not the time to match them, or anyone for that matter. You heard Lovey this afternoon. She's quite tired of you pestering her about marrying again. Although, I don't think Thurston would be a suitable match- Wentworth and Howell blood isn't supposed to mix, it's like one of those cheap cocktails, it's shaky. You know their families have an ongoing feud. I think Lovey would be mortified at the thought!"

" So...will you ask him?"

" I'd be delighted to. Leave it to me." He winked, making his wife giggle in her tipsy state.

" Such a good husband. Tell Thurston he's got a blind date tomorrow afternoon. There's a charming little three-hour boat cruise we can send them on. I'll ask the concierge to make a reservation." Charlotte pecked his cheek and went to mingle with some of their friends.

The night was still young and the ballroom was lively. Charlie made his way back to the little group of men. Thurston was telling a joke as he approached. " Ahh Charlie my boy, what did the wife want?"

" Well, she's now hired me to do all her dirty work. She's just informed me I'm to invite you on a blind date. Tomorrow at noon. She's arranged a cruise or something of that nature. Seems a bit common to me, unless it's on a yacht of course, but you know how the saying goes, happy wife happy life. Please agree or she'll have me by my wallet." Charlie joked.

Thurston's brows went up. The other men were very quick to encourage him to take the blind date. Thurston gave in. " Well gentleman, let's have a toast. To Thurston Howell. This could very well be his last evening as a single man. To the wolf of Wall Street!" Edward toasted to his friend. Everyone raised a glass towards the millionaire.

Thurston took a sip of his bourbon on the rocks and then decided to return to his hotel room, with the plan to meet Charlotte and Charlie in the lobby in the morning before his blind date. He was deep in thought as he was walking, not paying much attention to where he was stepping.

It's not much of a blind date since everyone on the register is here. Oh heavens to Tiffany, I hope she didn't set me up with Erika Tiffany Smith. Well Thurston my boy, you've been out with worse...

He went up to his suite and chucked off his suit and got ready for bed in his favorite silk jammies as he called them. He went over to his suitcase and pulled his teddy out and got into bed.

" We've got an adventure tomorrow, Teddy." The millionaire said to his bear, yawning as he sunk further into the silk sheets.

…..

Ginger Grant was so glad for a moment alone. From the time they arrived in Hawaii, she and Rock Hudson hadn't had a break or a chance to sit and breathe because their agents had them busy from the moment they stepped off the plane.

Rock Hudson was a famous leading man in Hollywood, sought after by every film producer for movies. He was the heartthrob, and Ginger Grant was the beautiful movie star. Together they were unstoppable.

Their trip consisted of interviews, photos, fans, more fans. Anywhere they went, they were mauled by anyone and everyone. A crowd would always gather. Every girl loved Rock Hudson and always went after him, even the guys.

Ginger Grant always had lines of men wanting a photo or autograph after her shows and lots of young women eager to meet her because they too wanted to be an actress.

She and Rock Hudson were doing a new film together called My Honey in Hawaii, and they were just beginning to do the press for it. The film was set to come out the following year, but filming was starting soon and they were planning on filming on location. The director, producer, and a few of their assistants had joined the two stars to scout potential filming locations.

When the day came to an end for her, Ginger decided to leave her hotel. She was more than grateful for the chance to slip out of the beautiful hotel suite they had put her up in. She went just after sunset.

The beaches had cleared out significantly and the moon was high in the sky, casting a beautiful glow into the water below.

Ginger was grateful for the sound of waves crashing as she walked the beach. Her infamous red locks were well hidden by a scarf and she'd opted for a more casual outfit as she strolled.

She lost her train of thought, dreaming about Hollywood until she came across a couple sitting together, gazing up at the moon, enjoying the calm night on the beach. I hope I get the chance to find my prince charming.

She had been in Hawaii for a week now and really hadn't had the chance to explore or see any of it. Being her last night there, she enjoyed the time alone to settle her mind and thoughts after the rush of a busy week.

As she made her way further down the beach, she walked by the marina and saw a sign for a tour. She stopped a second to read it. " Join us for a 3-hour tour of Hawaii. See the sites, and learn more about the island and its surroundings from an experienced captain and crew. Tour starts at noon."

It could be fun. We have nothing scheduled for the afternoon, just a flight back to Hollywood. A little tour for fun wouldn't hurt, Ginger thought to herself.

She'd have to bring her things of course. She figured she could have the hotel call a car to meet her when the tour was finished so she could head back to the airport. She headed back to her room to pack and prepare for her last day on the island, excited to be Ginger Grant, the tourist.

The 7 soon to be castaways from all various walks of life had no idea that their time in Hawaii wouldn't be cut short, in fact, it would be the longest trip of their lives…

TBC...