By Kate Bartlett
Bemus Bay Water Toys will be starting Tiki Boat tours this upcoming season, Memorial Day through Labor Day 2025. The boat will offer a new opportunity for those looking to enjoy the lake and be out on the water during the summer season.
Laurie Hind, co-owner and co-founder of Bemus Bay Water Toys, has been researching Tiki Boats for over 2 years. “We’ve enjoyed Tiki Tours in several areas, including Lake George, NY and Clearwater, Florida,” says Laurie. “They’re a great way to get out on the water and enjoy the summer months.”
offer a wide arrange of water activities for you to enjoy including rentals of
pontoons, kayaks, craigkats, hydrobikes and so much more. For more information
call 716-490-5797 or visit their website: bemuspointwatertoys.com.
Laurie and her husband Kevin have spoken with several other owners and all have had positive reports about adding Tiki Boats to their offerings. “It’s going to be a great addition to our fleet,” says Laurie. “The boat is family-friendly and can accommodate many types of groupings; a great opportunity for visitors and locals alike.”
The Tiki Boat will run 5 tours per day accommodating up to 18 passengers per trip. Guests can book tickets individually (or in groups of, 2, 3, 4, etc.) or as a large party. Tours include captain and first mate and plan to run 1.5 hours with a 2-hour sunset cruise to allow extra time to take in the golden hour. The boat will be BYO (Bring Your Own) Beverage, staff to serve, with cups, ice, and a cooler provided.
The boat is currently being built by a family-owned business in Iowa and is planned to arrive in time for the summer season. It is 26 feet long and 14 feet wide, with 4 pontoons and twin engines. The main deck holds a U-shaped tiki bar, bathroom, and Bluetooth speakers for guests to enjoy music for dancing or relaxing. Most trips will leave and return from Bemus Bay, with considerations for trips to the north and south end of the lake.
Bemus Bay Water Toys is a family owned and operated business that is celebrating their 5th season in operation. Laurie and Kevin have help from their 2 children (Kevin, 23, and Drew, 18), nephew and friends. They offer various rentals to enjoy Chautauqua Lake including 10 pontoon boats (with or without captain, ½ and full day), kayaks, water bikes, floating water mats, 4 Craig Cats (think go-karts on water) and soon will be adding more fishing boats to their fleet.
Laurie and Kevin encourage everyone to visit the lake this summer, and find a new way to enjoy the water. “We offer a wide variety of water equipment rentals, and we hope you’ll join us this summer!” For updates on the Tiki Boat, follow on social media and on their website bemusbaywatertoys.com and follow The Villager for upcoming articles about its release.