On June 22, 2020, the City released RFP 220-018, as per Ordinance 2020-2206, seeking proposals from firms wishing to have a franchise agreement to provide watercraft rental services from City parks and/or docks on the Pithlachascotee River. There were two firms which responded to the RFP with proposals:
Lucky Booty Cycleboats
Island Girl Cruises, LLC
Lucky Booty Cycleboats is a family owned and operated corporation. The President is Robert E. LaChance Jr., and the Vice President is Penny LaChance. Mr. LaChance and his two sons, all of whom have their Master Captain's License, will operate the tour boat.
The tour boat is ecofriendly as the riders have pedal stations that operate the paddle wheel in the back. The boat is equipped with an outboard motor if needed. Their intended tour will last 1.5 to 2 hours with the trip going up to the mouth of the river and in the evening, catch the sunset.
They will be able to have up to 16 guests on board for each trip, 10 seated at pedal stations and 6 seated for back up pedals or just enjoying the ride. Each trip will have the licensed captain and a first mate assisting the guests and captain.
Staffing: Each tour will have the licensed captain and first mate.
Hours of Operation: They intend to start with weekend tours running 11:00am, 1:30pm, 4:00pm and 7:30pm.
Rental Fee: $35.00 per guest. This will increase or decrease based on market sustainability.
Safety and Sanitation: The tour boat is not equipped with facilities and guests will be advised to prepare before sailing. If situations arise in which a restroom is needed, they will stop at one of the restaurants along the route. This is a brand new vessel and is equipped with USCG approved equipment. As required by the USCG, a safety briefing will be conducted before each trip. It will cover the items outlined and governed by the USCG. The boat is equipped with a first aid kit for minor injuries.
Island Girl Cruises, LLC is owned by Captain Joseph Anthony Pennino, Jr. Captain Pennino has a 100 Gross Register Tons Masters License to operate commercial boats. He has owned and operated boats, both large and small, since he was 15 years old. Recently, he Captained two passenger tour boats that carried between 40 and 49 passengers in Pinellas County.
Their Grand Opening Special will be a 2 hour boat ride from Sims Park heading west on the river to Durney Key and back.
Staffing: Captain Pennino and a first mate.
Hours of Operation: It will be by online or telephone reservations only. This will depend on COVID 19 restrictions, weather and meeting the minimum passenger count to cover expenses.
Rental Fee: $25 per guest.
Safety and Sanitation: The tour boat is equipped with facilities and USCG safety equipment. It is a brand new vessel and is expected to be delivered September 1, 2020. .