THUNDER BAY – Thunder Bay is set to become home to a brand new attraction this summer, Splish Splash Water Park is bringing a 100-person floating inflatable waterpark to Boulevard Lake.
“We are signing a three-year deal with Thunder Bay, so we’ll be there at least three years and we’re hoping for a three-year renewal after that,” said Gerry Champagne, owner of Calgary’s Splish Splash Water Park.
“And you know, if it’s successful, it’ll be like the mini-putt course that’s there, just open every summer.”
Champagne first approached the city of Thunder Bay 18 months ago. Councillor Albert Aiello, suggested Boulevard Lake, to support the city’s plan to rejuvenate the lake.
“Tourism is very important for our local economy, and the investment into our community is more than welcome. This leverages the lake and really complements our existing tourism attractions. It’s a fantastic way to draw people to town, in my experience visitors will travel over three hours to attend the park.” Said Champagne.
Champagne said the business would be open daily during the summer, with regular hours from June to Labour Day.
Passes will be available as either daily, one-hour, or two-hour passes and the inflatable waterpark can accommodate up to 100 people at a time, but Champagne says that park goers need not be too concerned about getting a chance to enjoy the park.
“Fifty per cent of people are buying one and two-hour passes, there’s always a continuous turnover,” said Champagne.
“So every half an hour basically, because we load every half hour, so that means every half hour there’s 15, 20, or 30 people coming off.”
Strict safety requirements are enforced, including mandatory life jackets and qualified lifeguards on duty, and with the shortage of lifeguards that Thunder Bay had experienced last year, certified lifeguards are encouraged to apply for this exciting summer job as soon as possible.
“Splish Splash Water Park will bring a unique and exciting attraction to Thunder Bay for both locals and visitors alike. We’re looking forward to working with the City of Thunder Bay and are hoping for a fantastic summer at the beach, having fun in the sun, and making memories. That’s really what we’re doing here.”
Inquiries can be forwarded to Gerry Champagne of Splish Splash Water Park: thunderbay@splishsplashwaterpark.com.
