The first season of bringing kayak rentals in Bath was a success for Kayakomat and its local franchise owners. They're now looking ahead to get an earlier start for an even better second year.

Owned and operated by Loyalist Township residents Dwayne Henne, Natalie Moniz-Henne, and their 14 year-old son, Oliver, the Bath Kayakomat location had lots of interest from residents. Having received phone calls, emails, and lots of local residents showing up to their grand opening event in July, the family feels as though the location will become a popular main-stay in Bath. Although there weren't as many rentals as expected this season, Dwayne explained how their late start likely factored in.

"By the time we had done the legalities of it, by the time we had booked a shipping date, etcetera, we really were just able to get down in our location for the July 1st weekend. It probably should be up and running next year by about May 1st," said Dwayne.

They noted that by looking at starting in May 2024, they should see the number of rentals increase compared to the first year. As more people become aware of the service, the numbers are expected to continue growing as well. Natalie noted how they'll be working on public awareness.

"I think people are still confused about the whole aspect of going online, and booking your kayak or paddle board. So we really have to get ahead of that next year and fully explain that," said Natalie.

More people renting will also mean more maintenance for the owners. Residents in Bath have so far been respectful of the equipment. Dwayne noted the public's respect when using the service.

"People were really, really courteous making sure that they put the kayaks and paddleboards back relatively clean," said Dwayne.

Dwayne is a financial advisor and portfolio manager; Natalie works as an event planner at the Faculty of Law at Queen's University. Dwayne explained why they got involved with running a Kayakomat location.

"This was basically a side gig that came out of the idea that our 14-year-old son Oliver was having difficulty finding a traditional summer job, because a lot of organizations prefer somebody 15 or 16. So he's now at the age in high school where they wanna be able to have a lot more money," said Dwayne.

He explained how their love of paddle sports helped influence the idea.

"I love to kayak, my wife loves to paddleboard, and the whole idea was let's get Oliver his very first opportunity at starting to run a business," said Dwayne.

"People can basically drag their kayaks or paddleboards into this pretty much sheltered bay and they can enjoy it their own leisure without having to worry about the liability of walking over limestone and tripping, getting into the water. It's a nice, easy, gentle slope from that part," said Dwayne.

Kayakomat's headquarters are in Sweden, with their Canadian head office in Calgary. Natalie noted that the kayaks the company uses are very safe.

"You know, Lake Ontario, you just never know what you're gonna get. It could be flat one day and super wavy the next day. So these kayaks, are made to go on rougher waters, and you always feel safe in them for sure," said Natalie.

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