Building a Floating Business on Long Island Paddle Pub and Cruisin Tiki’s Interview

This special episode of Bay Rats & Buoys comes to you live from the New York Boat Show, where Captain Gaige sits down with Amanda Warren, Long Island Operations lead for Paddle Pub & Cruisin Tikis, to talk boating, business, and building one of the most talked-about on-the-water experiences on Long Island.

Recorded from the floor of the Javits Center, this episode dives into how Paddle Pub and Cruisin Tikis have become staples in Huntington and Patchogue, blending fun, safety, and smart operations into a wildly popular floating social scene. Amanda breaks down what goes on behind the scenes to run these vessels day in and day out—from staffing and logistics to weather calls, dock coordination, and customer experience—all while operating in some of the busiest waterways on the Island.

We also get into Amanda’s personal journey in the marine and hospitality world, how she grew into a leadership role overseeing Long Island operations, and what it takes to manage seasonal boating businesses that explode in popularity during the summer months. For anyone interested in maritime careers beyond traditional fishing and charter paths, this conversation opens your eyes to a whole different side of the boating industry.

Captain Gaige and Amanda talk about why Huntington Harbor and Patchogue Village are perfect fits for Paddle Pub and Cruisin Tikis, the local boating culture in each port, and how these experiences have helped bring new people onto the water—many for the very first time. They also touch on safety protocols, licensing, teamwork, and the balance between fun and responsibility that keeps these operations running smoothly.

As always, the episode captures the energy of the New York Boat Show, with conversations about community, entrepreneurship, and the many ways people make a living on the water. Whether you’re a boater, business owner, or just love the waterfront lifestyle, this is a must-listen episode that shows how creativity and passion can turn boats into unforgettable experiences.