A new self-serve amenity is landing at the Waba Cottage Museum and Gardens in White Lake.
McNab-Braeside Recreation Director Andrea Lamontagne, in her submission to Township Council March 19th says “Kayakomat”, the automated kayak and paddleboard rental system that first launched in Sweden is new to this area.
It’s not the first time the idea had been broached as a potential Township attraction.
The Recreation Director says the Kayakomat kiosk comes with a minimal investment on behalf of McNab-Braeside.
An annual user fee, payable to the township, of $350 per location was recommended.
The Waba Cottage site, preferred option of the franchisees, requires no Township staff time to administer.
Lamontagne says the Kayakomat operators have satisfied Township liability requirements.
The franchise owner is responsible for providing a minimum of $2 million coverage liability insurance, with the Township named on the policy. They are responsible to check the kiosk weekly.
All safety equipment is included with each watercraft.
Those who rent one of the up to nine craft on offer are responsible for safety compliance- both for themselves, and the younger set in their party.
Patrons will pre-book an inventory of up to nine kayaks by credit card via a website.
Hourly rental rates are $20 for a kayak or SUP and $30 for a tandem kayak.
Elected representatives expressed a concern that under-agers could attempt to rent a kayak on their own.
Council was also concerned the new feature might heighten traffic congestion at the established boat launch at Waba Cottage.
Waba Cottage Museum and Gardens is considered an ideal location because of it’s walkability for residents, it is a tourism destination with increased seasonal activity, and White Lake is a manageable body of water for this type of watercraft.
The initiative will be a pilot project for the 2024 season.
If successful, an option to keep the kiosk in place for the winter with an annual agreement would be a consideration.
By Rick Stow
