The Vintage Grape

After experiencing a wonderful stay on a houseboat in Key West, Florida, Brian McGinty knew right away that this would be a great innovation for the beautiful wine region back home. He took this bold idea and and ran with it, and in 2018 he made it a reality.

Brian established his new venture the Vintage Grapes Houseboat Lodgings Experience and people have been enjoying their houseboat vacations ever since.

The Kingsville Times recently interviewed Brian McGinty about the Vintage Grapes Houseboat Lodgings Experience.

Brian at the helm

KT:
How would you describe your services?
BM:
Our service of the houseboats is a unique way to experience a stay. Hotels are all the same, so we allow people to switch it up and enjoy staying on the water.

KT:
Who are your target clients?

BM:
Anyone looking for a unique stay, families, couples, friends.

KT: 
What is your business motto?

BM:
“Always put our customers first!”

The Vintage Grape Interior

KT:
How has COVID affected your business and what have you done to COVID-proof it?

BM:
With COVID last year, many tourists chose a staycation, so we were able to host great people from within our local region. We have taken extra steps to ensure that between every booking enhanced cleaning is being done and all surfaces are being disinfected.

The feedback we have received on this has been outstanding. All of our guests were blown away with how clean The Vintage Grape was, some so much in fact that they have already re-booked for this summer, since they know they will walk into a clean and safe setting.

KT:
What advice would you give to others who might be considering starting a business?

BM:
If it feels right, DO IT!

The Vintage Merlot

KT:
What do your clients say about your business?

BM:
Many clients said they really loved sleeping on a boat, stating that they really enjoyed the fast communication available through the Airbnb app.

Here are some testimonials that we have received:

“It was so nice to get away from everything and hide on the boat for a day and a night. To only have to bring food and clothes was so convenient, so nice to have everything else we needed on board. We loved the atmosphere and Brian was quick to answer all of my questions, not to mention the book full of notes from past visitors. It’s so different then anything we have ever done, cannot wait to go back!”

“We stayed at the boat house for two nights and had a great experience. Lots to do and see within walking distance [went to a couple wineries and some local pubs]. Met some interesting and friendly people along the way. Highlight of the boat house was sitting on the upper deck rocking to the waves, watching the stars and listening to the lake.”

“The Vintage Grape was a great escape for a week! The surrounding area and beach was beautiful and the sunsets each night were breathtaking. The boat itself has all of the amenities you need to feel at home while experiencing life on a boat. We enjoyed our time visiting.”

KT:
What are your plans for business growth? New services or products that clients can look out for?

BM:
Last season, we offered The Vintage Grape houseboat as an Airbnb experience.  New this summer season, we are adding two more houseboats to our fleet, The Vintage Merlot and The Vintage Cabern’Eh’.

All three boats are available now for bookings this season, along with a cottage that will be available for rent in a few months.

The Vintage Cabern’Eh’

Boats are moored at the Colchester Harbour located at 100 Jackson Street, Harrow, Ontario.

We are open May 1st – Thanksgiving Weekend for bookings.

To Contact The Vintage Grapes Houseboat Lodgings Experience

Website and to book a stay:
The Vintage Grape Airbnb

Facebook: 
Vintage Grapes Houseboat Lodgings Experience

Email:
brianmcginty535@hotmail.com

Instagram:
thevintagegrapes

Address:
100 Jackson Street,
Colchester,
Ontario,
Canada,
N0R 1G0

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