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 Paddle boats racers at the Pier One marina were busy last week as residents came out to test out a new fleet of floating toys. Pictured, in front, left to right, are Nicole Lawson, Dan Bissell, and in back, left to right, are Karim Moussaoui and Edward Robinson. |
Its molded yellow hull and rounded body make the waterbee 203 pedal boat the coolest craft to hit the North Slave region in a while.
It's one of a fleet of eight human-powered boats Pier One launched from its waterside location in Old Town just two weeks ago.
"They are not conventional paddle boats. Those things just motor," says Doug Witty, owner of the marina.
"We want to try to enhance the services down here and increase the tourism on the water," says Witty. Their unique look is what hooked Witty on the Future Beach boats from Quebec. "They are so funky looking. They are very noticeable on the water," he says.
The boats range from two to four-person paddleboats and kayaks to single-person water bikes.
Pier One held paddle boat races two nights last week so families and anyone interested could try out the yellow beasts. Winners received free passes.
The boats were a hit with kids, who hung out at the marina for multiple tries.
"Paddle boats are the bomb. You can cruise on the water without getting wet," Dan Bissell said after a ride.
Nicole Lawson figures an anchor on the boat would make for an awesome day hanging out on the water.
Lawson and Bissell tried out every type with friends Karim Moussaoui and Edward Robinson.
The water bike was the hands down favourite, but the four-person paddle boat was a close second.
"It just looks like it's built to cruise," said Bissell.
The marina plans to rent out the boats all summer for tours around Joliffe Island and wherever folks can pedal them. The yellow beasts can even squeeze under the Latham Island causeway.
