Sunday, August 25, 2024
For Kirk Grable, life on the water has always held a unique charm. Grable now channels his passion into Tiki Cruises, a business that aims to create lasting family memories on Lake Granbury. The company has been a part of the Granbury community for the past four years and has quickly become a local favorite.
“I grew up on the water with boats all my life, and from a very young age, we didn’t have all these gadgets back then. Back then, it was an old black inner tube you pulled behind the boat, skiing and just having a good time,” said Grable, adding, “They’ve come a long way with the fun stuff.”
As water sports evolved, so did his family’s enjoyment — transitioning from water skiing to embracing newer thrills like wakeboarding, wake surfing and kneeboarding.
Grable, a police officer, firefighter and paramedic, runs Tiki Cruises with his wife Cheryl, a retired teacher who manages bookings and other behind-the-scenes work. The Grables launched Tiki Cruises on the coast, using a smaller vessel for family outings. However, as operational challenges increased in that area, they sought a more suitable location and found it in Granbury.
“We started our cruise business six or seven years ago in Port Aransas. We’ve been operating in Granbury for the last four years,” Grable noted. Raised in the Aledo area, Grable spent much time in and around Granbury. When considering where to move their cruise business, Granbury’s cohesive community and robust tourism opportunities made it an ideal choice.
“Granbury is a tight-knit community with great recreational appeal,” Grable said. “It’s everything we were looking for, and we want to be good stewards of the community. Exposing people to not only Granbury but the Texas culture is something we’re passionate about.”
COMMITMENT TO SAFETY
Safety is a top priority for Grable and his team. Having captained various vessels, including a 47-foot yacht, Grable emphasizes safety. “All of our captains are United States Coast Guard certified, which is unheard of being as far inland as we are. Normally, you would find that to be the case around the Gulf Coast, but Captain Tray, Captain Calvin and I are Coast Guard captains.”
The adherence to stringent safety protocols is a hallmark of Tiki Cruises. “We have an impeccable safety record,” Grable noted. Children under 13 are required to wear life jackets, and guests receive thorough safety briefings before each cruise. The team also conducts boat safety inspections to ensure everything is in top condition.
“We have not had any incidents on Tiki Cruises. Before we cruise, we give a comprehensive safety briefing to include how to respond in the event of a search and rescue, how to respond in the event of an abandoned ship, how to respond in the event of a man overboard, and restroom rules. We present a uniform and standardized explanation every time we go out,” Grable emphasized.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
As ambassadors for Granbury, Tiki Cruises recommends local businesses and educates guests on regional history and ecology during cruises. “We are a catalyst in that we recommend other businesses in town just because most people that sail with us are looking for a variety of things to do around Granbury,” Grable explained.
Tiki Cruises shares knowledge about the community, discussing the history of the Brazos River, local landmarks like Elizabeth Patton Crockett’s gravesite, and the area’s ecology. This educational aspect enriches the cruise experience, making it fun and informative.
The business has partnered with local establishments like Mesquite Pit and D’Vine Wine to enhance the guest experience. “We have a partnership with Mesquite Pit that allows us to moor out of their location,” Grable said. Guests can order their meals an hour before departure, and the food is delivered to the boat. Mesquite Pit manager Laura Fuller explains, “We send out a 10% food discount for the people that get on the Tiki Cruises.” D’Vine Wine also offers delivery convenience to Tiki Cruisers who order beverages with them in advance.
MAINTAINING A PERSONAL TOUCH
Despite receiving inquiries about franchising, Grable prefers to maintain their boutique business operation. “We are not a franchise; we’re a mom-and-pop operation. We’ve been approached about franchising, but I believe no one cares for your product as much as you do,” he said. Grable emphasized that maintaining their reputation for safety and creating fun family memories is more important than expanding for the sake of profit.
The unique Tiki boat, manufactured by Sightseer, has enhanced safety features, including a bathroom. Tiki Cruises offers a variety of packages, including private cruises for up to 20 people. Guests can bring their beverages and snacks or utilize Tiki Cruises’ partnerships with local businesses for a complete experience.
LOOKING AHEAD
Tiki Cruises operates seasonally, from Spring Break through the first week of December, depending on weather conditions. Prices are affordable, with adult tickets at $55 and children’s tickets at $50. Grable and his team continue to explore new offerings, such as karaoke and corporate events, to keep the experience fresh and exciting for their guests.
Reflecting on the journey, Grable emphasizes the importance of being a good steward of the community and the Texas spirit. “Our goal is to provide an outstanding business standard and to promote Granbury as a destination,” he said. “We recommend other local businesses to our guests, sharing knowledge about the area’s history and attractions.”
From its early days in Port Aransas, Tiki Cruises remains committed to creating memorable family moments. It offers a range of experiences, ensuring every cruise is filled with photo-worthy memories and personalized service.
For more information about Tiki Cruises and to book your next adventure, visit its website.
