1.What services does your business offer and what makes your business stand out from the competition?

Portage Lakes Cruises provides a relaxing tour around a chain of seven lakes located in New Franklin, in Akron Ohio. Passengers board one of several comfortable pontoon boats for a two-hour ride, complete with a Captain who is knowledgeable about the history of the area, wildlife, and current events. Clean and safe boats, handicapped accessible docks and friendly, helpful staff insure a first-class excursion for guests.

2. What was the inspiration to start or run this business?

Captain Judy started Portage Lakes Cruises in 2013 as a way to spend more time on her boat as retirement approached. Her 40+ years as a nurse provided her with just the right mix of wanting to help people by adding some fun and fresh air to their lives. This led to taking out many groups of people, some with challenges, some very young and some very mature, all just wanting some sun and fun on the water. The venture soon grew and necessitated bringing on staff of several friendly and experienced boaters as captains.

3. What do you love most about your job?

When you take a cruise with this group, it is soon apparent that the whole staff really takes responsibility for the pleasure and welfare of all passengers seriously, and love what they do. This is especially true at the end of the ride, when passengers sometimes need coaxing to get off the boat! This is the reaction everyone who works with the company wants to see - over and over again.

4. What is the best reaction you've ever gotten from a customer?

One event that summarizes this feeling stands out to Captain Judy. While leaving the boat after a memorable party; during which a 98th birthday was celebrated with cupcakes and lots of story telling, the woman's son commented that he never thought he'd seen his mother so happy. It was truly what it's all about for this owner/operator. Shining reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Face Book tell the rest of the tale.