Tiki Tours celebrated the launch of a new 30-foot, tiki-style pontoon boat with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Friday morning. This is the second boat in their fleet. The charter boat company, which began operations in 2016, offers leisurely tours of the lake on floating tiki bar-style boats. Lake George Village Mayor Robert Blais, NYS Assemblyman Matt Simpson, Warren County Board of Supervisors Chair Rachael Seeber, members of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce, the press and the public attended the ceremony.
“It’s exactly this that makes Lake George a great place to come,” says Mayor Blais, explaining that new attractions keep things exciting and draws business. Seeber, on behalf of the Warren County Board of Supervisors, presented the owners with the Warren County Strong Certificate of Excellence Award saying that by expanding their business, Tiki Tours helps develop Lake George and the entire region.
Assemblyman Simpson congratulated the company on being able to expand their business, particularly after the challenges businesses faced with last year’s pandemic shutdowns. “[W]hat better way to enjoy Lake George than standing aboard a tiki boat,” he added.
Gina Mintzer, Executive Director of the Lake George Regional Chamber of Commerce, says Tiki Tours has been a great addition to the region’s wedding market. The tiki boats are popular with bridal bachelorette parties and other group outings.
“We’re grateful to be part of a great community,” says Tiki Tours co-founder and owner Greg Teresi. “We look forward to more…more boats, maybe tiki boats, maybe other types of boats.” He noted that the charter boat industry on Lake George is flourishing, and “We’re happy to be a part of it.”
Kandi Kelley, co-owner and manager of Tiki Tours, announced that every Thursday through September they are offering rides to guests at the Ronald McDonald House’s Krantz Cottage. Krantz Cottage, on Ottawa Street in Lake George Village, is a retreat for families dealing with serious childhood illnesses. “The community connection was really important to all of us,” she says.
Tiki Tours books groups of up to 12 passengers for 70- minute cruises on Lake George. They operate 7-days a week, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., mid-May through mid-September. Reservations may be made online at the Tiki Tours website.
