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Makai Kayak & Kanoe Marks First Anniversary
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Published: July 23, 2008
Makai Kayak & Kanoe, on the section of Main Street between U.S. 19 and the Pithlachascotee River known as the Palm District, is celebrating its first anniversary.
The business is marking the milestone by giving mini-seminars this Saturday for the beginning paddler. The seminar will include how to choose the correct kayak and paddle and proper paddling techniques.
On Sunday the organization will offer discounted guided tours of the Cotee River.
Both days they will have give-aways, snacks and refreshments and offer coupons for discounted rentals on future visits.
Makai Kayak & Kanoe's storefront is familiar to those who travel Main Street west toward U.S. 19. Its façade sports a mural, "The Stilt Home," by artist, Keith Goodson, which was commissioned last year by the Greater New Port Richey Main Street downtown-boosting organization.
The business was founded by Arden Anderson, and his wife, Joan, who were inspired to open the business by his passion for fishing and paddling.
The Andersons' family-based business strives to give back to the community and has adopted several local nonprofit groups, including Big Brother Big Sister, Boy and Girls Scouts of America and the New Port Richey Marine Institute, an alternative school for troubled youths.
"We chose to work with several not-for-profit organizations that are children related," Joan said from behind the counter of the colorful showroom. It houses a variety of kayaks and canoes for sale and rent.
Other groups the business helps include the American Red Cross and the Main Street organization. The Andersons have donated a 12-foot Riot fishing kayak valued at $1,200 to the Main Street group.
The kayak will be the prize in a drawing to be held at the New Port Richey Founders Day celebration, Sept. 26 -28. Proceeds from the drawing will benefit the downtown organization.
Makai Kayak & Kanoe is one of Pasco County's authorized dealer of Pelican Kayaks, as well as the exclusive dealer of Riot Kayaks. It offers seven different makes of the light weight single and tandem "sit-on-top" boats that are paddled and propelled by the rider.
The business offers a variety of guided tours, including half-day paddling trips through Werner-Boyce Salt Springs State Park. Another gulf-front tour passes the stilt houses between Green Key and Durney Key.
In addition, they have guided tours for the beginner that last 90 minutes and overnight tours of the Anclote River.
The business has designated Sundays as family day by offering one free kayak or canoe rental to a family of four. It also offer lessons for those who want to learn how to operate the vessels. Additionally, they will plan that special "party" tour for all occasions.
For full details on this weekend's anniversary celebration call 727-232-1823, or visit www.makaikayak.com.
Scott E. Smith can be reached at 727-815-1063 or ssmith@suncoastnews.com.
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