KAWARTHA LAKES-Happy Days Houseboats near Bobcaygeon is closing its rental business after 43 years in business.
The company is located on the west shore of Pigeon Lake, 8 km south of Bobcaygeon. Happy Days Houseboats began in 1978 and is a second-generation family business. It was Ziggy Quast who started the business. He was the visionary who built over 40 houseboats in his lifetime. Each houseboat in today’s rental fleet was custom built in Canada for the uniqueness of the Kawarthas.
Clients have been called and notified that their bookings for this summer have been cancelled and their money will be refunded.
“We regret to inform you that effective immediately, we are ceasing operation of the Happy Days Houseboat rental fleet.” It says on the company website. “We would like to thank all of our guests throughout the years for your loyalty and support. You have brought us much happiness.”
Frank and his wife Jill Quast are second generation owners of the business. Frank was a firefighter with the City of Toronto for 31 years and retired as a Captain. With his professional background, he made safety on board and on the water an integral part of every guest experience. He enthusiastically shared his knowledge of the waterway and passion for houseboating. His motto is “any boat ride is a good boat ride”.
For over 20 years, Jill was in the office, administering the day to day and long term planning.
“This has been a devastating decision to make, especially after 43 years.” Jill Quast told Kawartha 411 News. “It’s pretty heart wrenching to get to this point of making such a monumental decision because we are so profoundly aware of the impact it has on our family, staff, guests and our community. The past year has been so challenging for all and a houseboat holiday was a glimmer of hope that a lot of people were looking forward to.”
The company’s insurance provider pulled out of Canada and they were not able to get another provider. We will have more on that in the coming days.
The Happy Days Marina will continue to operate.