Deer Lake Boat Rentals has been up and running in Burnaby since 1999. The owner, Damien, ran a boat rental out of Ontario before coming to B.C. and seeing an opportunity to promote boating and boat safety. “I’m a big kayaking advocate; it’s a passion of mine and I wanted to share that with other people,” Damien says.
Damien’s business caters to people who are new to boating. “ESL school groups, day camps, Girl Guides, Boy Scouts, elementary schools, high schools, and families." he says. "We provide an experience that becomes an annual summertime activity for some families. We have knowledgeable and competent staff members that create a safe environment for beginners.”
What’s unique about Deer Lake Boat Rentals is its setting. At Deer Lake, there is no tide or currents, and usually no waves, making it a safe environment for newcomers. The boats are designed with safety and beginners in mind and all your boating equipment, from life jackets to paddles, are supplied by Deer Lake Boat Rentals.
On weekdays in the summer Deer Lake Boat Rentals serves various camps until 3 pm. In the late afternoon, the clientele shifts to families looking for a quick but beautiful evening get away. “People can come on out, enjoy themselves for an hour, then go home without having to worry about hauling up a boat and putting it away.”