to begin the winterization process, along with any necessary maintenance or repairs to get them in ship shape for guests the following season. When asked about expansion, Larry shares that he does have plans to add more houseboats to the fleet. He states that his son, Nicholas, has become a shareholder and manages most of the day-to-day aspects of the business and is doing a great job, alongside his office manager, Barb, who’s been with them for eight years and looks after the cleaning crew and offices. Another long time employee is Peter. “We’ve been lucky to have some amazing employees, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile,” Larry adds. As with many businesses, Larry experienced many obstacles trying to get his business afloat, from financing to selling the idea and business plan to the provincial government.
Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) was a key to his business, Larry explains, “Their program was able to cover some of the areas that are most difficult in financing any business.” ACOA offers opportunities for economic growth in the region by helping businesses secure flexible financing with little or no security and no interest charges on their loans. Larry added, “ACOA’s financing options help startups and established businesses grow.” In an era where people are constantly seeking new ways to disconnect from the noise and unplug from their daily lives, Lakeway Houseboat Vacations has reinvented the perfect vacation while carving out its niche. It’s not just a trip; it’s an immersion out of reality and simplicity, wrapped in the comfort of a floating home away from home. How many times have you heard your friends
We’ve been lucky to have some amazing employees, and that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
74 SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE • VOL 25 ISSUE 4
BUSINESS • SPOTLIGHT ON BUSINESS MAGAZINE 75
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