LAKE LEELANAU – There’s something eye-catching and new on the water in northern Michigan and it could revolutionize the boating industry. Lilypad Labs, a Michigan-based startup, is pleased to announce the launch of Lilypad, a sharable, 100-percent solar powered boat.
Two Lilypad solar boats are now available for rent daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Fountain Point Resort, a historic northern Michigan family summer resort on Lake Leelanau, just 30 minutes north of Traverse City. Up to four people can rent the boats for two hours at a time. The cost is $150, and no prior experience is necessary. Rental agent, Aussie Watersports, takes guests through all operating details and safety procedures on site.
“Lilypad is an entirely new boating experience. There’s nothing to plug in or fill up; the boats are completely powered by the sun,” said Jim Hotary, CTO and founder of Lilypad Labs. “We designed them to be whisper quiet with sofa-like seating, a coffee table with plenty of room for drinks and snacks, and a Bluetooth audio system. The controls are simple and easy for anyone to use. We are so excited for the public to try it, and Fountain Point on beautiful Lake Leelanau is the perfect place for our official launch.”
Lilypad is designed and manufactured in Michigan. The boats can travel up to 5 MPH and have a unique look, with solar panels that slide open and close to keep the interior clean when the boat is not in use. Lilypad is among the first-ever cohort of maritime grant recipients through the Fresh Coast Maritime Challenge Grant Program. A $135,000 grant from Traverse Connect and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation helped support the launch.
“Fountain Point is thrilled to host Lilypad on the shores of beautiful Lake Leelanau. This is a truly unique amenity for our guests and community to enjoy,” said Theo Early, owner/operator of Fountain Point Resort. “We are first and foremost a summer resort for families, and in collaboration with Lilypad, we hope to foster a lifetime of nature appreciation and environmental stewardship in all generations.”
Fountain Point Resort is located at 990 S. Lake Leelanau Drive, Lake Leelanau, Michigan. To book a two-hour solar boat excursion, visit lilypadboats.com or Aussie Watersports.
