When you step aboard a Palapa Tour, you’re not just booking a boat ride—you’re becoming part of our ohana. What makes Palapa Tours truly special isn’t just our floating tiki bars or the scenic Ottawa River views; it’s the family spiritthat runs through everything we do.
At Palapa Tours, we don’t just run a business—we live it. From captaining the boats to mixing up the perfect tropical cocktails, everyone in the family plays a role in making each tour an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s behind the wheel, behind the bar, or behind the scenes, our kids are just as involved as we are, ensuring every guest gets the full Palapa experience.
Meet Mike: The Visionary Behind the Vibes
Mike has always been an entrepreneur at heart. His background in entertainment and business development has taken him all over North America, but Ottawa has always been home. His passion for creating one-of-a-kind experiences led him to discover tiki boats while traveling. The idea was simple: bring a slice of paradise to the Ottawa River. With his expertise in crafting engaging, immersive experiences, Mike turned Palapa Tours into a standout attraction that blends fun, adventure, and relaxation—all with a signature tropical twist.
Meet Gaby: The Heart and Soul of Palapa Tours
Gaby is the glue that holds it all together. With a background in insurance and customer service, she knows how to connect with people on a personal level. She brings warmth and hospitality to every guest interaction, making sure everyone who boards feels like part of the family. Whether she’s greeting guests, managing operations, or stepping in to lend a hand behind the bar, Gaby’s dedication to exceptional service and memorable experiences is the heartbeat of Palapa Tours.
A Family That Runs on Fun
Our kids aren’t just along for the ride—they’re a vital part of the business. Some are certified captains, while others mix up signature cocktails as bartenders on board. They’ve grown up around the water, and now they’re helping create the same amazing experiences for others.
Ohana Means Family—And We Mean It
At Palapa Tours, family isn’t just about blood—it’s about the people we welcome into our lives. Our staff aren’t just employees; they’re our extended family. They come over to our home for game nights, celebrations, and dinners, and we treat them like our own. Whether it’s a holiday meal, a summer BBQ, or just a casual night of board games, our team is always part of our ohana.
This isn’t just a business to us—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a family-first experience. When we say Ohana, we truly mean it.
So, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, looking for a unique team-building event, or simply wanting to unwind on the water, we can’t wait to welcome you aboard.
🌴 Come experience the magic of a family-run adventure on the Ottawa River! 🌊🚤
🔗 Book your Palapa Tour today: www.ottawapalapa.tours
🌴 Our city. Our family. Our experiences. Listen now at palapa.live 🎧 #OttawaOhana #PalapaPulse #LiveTheVibe












