Tourists, locals enjoy busy holiday weekend in Lakes Region
Locals say holiday weekend one of the busiest for boat rentals
Locals say holiday weekend one of the busiest for boat rentals
Locals say holiday weekend one of the busiest for boat rentals
The Fourth of July weekend has had perfect weather to be on the water and marinas in the Lakes Region say they are jam-packed this holiday weekend.
"You're building family memories. No better way to do it than being on the water with your family," said Mark Souda with Winnisquam Marine.
Summer is in full swing at Lake Winnisquam.
"The lake, the people — the people here are fantastic," said Rich Moyette, of Winnisquam.
"It’s our 13th year here at Winnisquam Marine. We are a slip holder," said Lex and Cindy Karol. "It just seems to get better every year.”
The people at Winnesquam Marine tell News 9 their boat rentals grew in popularity during the pandemic. With mother nature cooperating this weekend, locals say it’s one of the busiest they've seen at Winnesquam.
"This is the best year we've had out of the last three. Especially since were now done with COVID. People are just itching to get out onto the water. And have a good time," Souda said. "COVID got more people out. So, we saw a real big uptick in business in 2020, 2021 but it’s still very steady right now."
Souda said despite record-high inflation, and near-record-high gas prices, all 52 of their pontoon boats are rented this weekend.
"People are still going to spend the money to enjoy themselves," Souda said. "I just had a customer say he’s on vacation, he's going to spend the money whether it’s $6, $3, $10. They’re going to use their boat so, we wish it was a little lower, but it is what it is."
The sandbar was a popular place to gather during the day and locals said an even better place to watch fireworks at night.
“You can see 360 all around you. There are plenty of fireworks to be had," Moyette said. "A lot of the houses here — people shoot ‘em right off the boats, right off the house, it’s great. A lot of fun."
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