The shores of Long Island have always been a treasure, but now Port Jefferson has a new way to experience them: Tiki Boat Long Island. What started as a fun idea two years ago has now anchored in Port Jefferson Marina, bringing with it not just a one-of-a-kind boating adventure, but also fresh energy for the local community and economy.
Why Port Jefferson Benefits
Moving to Port Jefferson was more than just a business decision – it was an opportunity to become part of a thriving, walkable waterfront village. By operating out of a commercial slip at the Port Jefferson Marina, Tiki Boat Long Island now brings thousands of new visitors each season directly into town. These guests don’t just come for the cruise; they eat at restaurants, stay at inns, shop in boutiques, and stroll through the harbor area. The boat essentially acts as a magnet, pulling more tourism into Port Jeff and spreading the economic benefits across dozens of small businesses.
CEO Kevin Biscardi put it best: “It’s better for the business, and it’s definitely better for the customers. But it’s also better for Port Jeff—it brings people here who might not otherwise visit, and once they do, they realize what a gem this town is.”
A Boost for Local Businesses
Tiki Boat Long Island isn’t just running cruises – it’s building partnerships. Many of its catering packages feature food from local restaurants and vendors. Whether it’s freshly made sandwiches, Italian favorites, or custom platters, local eateries get a chance to showcase their food to groups celebrating birthdays, corporate outings, weddings, and more.
That means restaurants aren’t just serving diners in-house – they’re also extending their brand onto the water, where 30 hungry, happy guests become potential repeat customers. It’s collaboration in action: the boat creates unforgettable experiences, while nearby restaurants and bars reap new exposure and sales.
A Unique Experience for Guests
For guests, the benefits are clear: a 90-minute tropical escape right in the heart of Long Island. The vessel – complete with a full-service bar, dance floor, sound system, misters, bathroom, and professional crew – delivers the vibe of the Caribbean without the plane ticket.
Corporate groups use it to strengthen team culture. Families use it to celebrate milestones. Tourists and locals alike use it to unwind with cocktails and music against the backdrop of Port Jeff’s harbor and the Long Island Sound.
And because cruises start steps away from downtown Port Jeff, visitors can easily turn one activity into a full-day adventure – grabbing dinner, shopping, or enjoying live entertainment before or after their time on the boat.
Strengthening Community Connections
The move to Port Jefferson also fosters community pride. Locals get to show off their town in a way that’s both fun and distinctive. For residents, Tiki Boat Long Island has become a new go-to option for entertaining visiting friends and family. For the town, it’s a chance to showcase the beauty of its shoreline while supporting small businesses and seasonal employment.
With licensed bartenders, USCG-certified captains, and trained hosts onboard, guests not only feel safe but also cared for – raising the bar for what local hospitality can look like.
More Than Just a Boat Ride
At its core, Tiki Boat Long Island isn’t just about cocktails and cruises. It’s about creating a ripple effect of benefits:
- For the town: More tourism, more foot traffic, more economic vitality.
- For businesses: Catering partnerships, added exposure, and new customers.
- For guests: An unforgettable, Caribbean-inspired experience on Long Island’s North Shore.
Or as Biscardi sums it up: “Everybody’s happy, everybody’s eating, drinking, and dancing. That’s what it’s all about – making memories and giving people a reason to smile.”
To book your own experience and support Port Jefferson’s local community, visit TikiBoatLongIsland.com or call 631-648-8055.
