Uncertainty hangs like a dark cloud over at the Port of Orillia this summer, says harbourmaster Allan Lafontaine.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, they are currently a month behind in boater traffic and officials are expecting to feel a harsh impact financially.
“We’ve gone from last year where it was come and stay as long as you can, to concerns about somebody that might bring their friends or invite someone down to the dock for a visit. That’s no longer possible at this time,” Lafontaine said.
The port opened to boaters last week but must follow provincial and municipal safety guidelines and protocols, which have made visiting the port less appealing, Lafontaine conceded, adding boaters are unable to use public and boater washrooms until at least July 5.
“This year is difficult with the family only rules and the social distancing element," said Lafontaine, who is also the managing director of the Orillia and District Chamber of Commerce. "Normally, the Port of Orillia is where you come to meet your friends."
Less traffic from out-of-towners will be hurt the most, said Lafontaine.
“We rely heavily on U.S. transit traffic. There’s also a definite concern of a swell from the GTA coming up to our community. We are missing that part of the economy," he said.
The special events at the Port of Orillia that annually draw thousands to the city are mostly on hold for the summer.
“Some of the things we have the most fun with aren’t going to be a part of this year going forward,” Lafontaine explained.
The In-Water Boat Show has been cancelled and staff have been working on moving the Waterfront Festival and Pirate Party to a virtual format.
The Christmas in June event is still scheduled for June 21. However, the event and the number of boaters that participate will likely look much different from years past. There will only be two prizes for the best-decorated boat and the best lights.
“Businesses can’t afford to give prizes like we’ve had in the past. It’s just going to be quiet and we are asking participants to just bring their family to celebrate,” Lafontaine said.
While the port is working with reduced services and staff working reduced hours, they are still working on a solution to Premier Doug Ford asking tourists to bring their own supplies with them for their travels instead of purchasing items from local stores as a way to help stop the spread of the coronavirus.
“We are working on a plan to try and get supplies down to the port so there can be transactions happening this year,” Lafontaine said.
“We want to work with our local vendors and restaurants to get meals and supplies delivered to boaters, which could make our port more attractive.”
There are 4,000 boaters in the area according to Lafontaine.
As the summer progresses, it’s possible the Port of Orillia will provide one of the few opportunities for boaters to get out on the water.
Lafontaine said he is hoping that boaters will be enticed to visit the port this summer, noting reduced traffic will ensure families can enjoy the peaceful waterfront.
