Paddle boats are to return to Lake Burley Griffin with two new innovations: sun protection and four seats instead of two.
The boats were removed from the lake last year to be repaired. The old ones will return in good order but there will also be new four-seater ones.
And there will be a sunshade which can be pulled up and lowered according to the weather.
"The new paddle boats will accommodate up to four adults and offer sun protection, ensuring comfort during those warm summer days on the lake," Kristy McBain, the federal minister for the territories, said at literally the launch.
The National Capital Authority has signed an agreement with new operator Love Boats Canberra to restore the popular vessels. Under the deal, six vessels are to resume operations from Regatta Point Jetty.
The aim is to expand the fleet with new boats, operating from Commonwealth Place (where the flags are near the galleries) and Kingston fore-shore.
The paddle boats will be available for hire on weekends throughout the year and on weekdays during school holidays. The charge will be $30 for half an hour and $40 for an hour.
"I'm delighted that paddle boats will return to Lake Burley Griffin in time for spring and will continue to be part of the experience of living in and visiting Canberra," the federal MP for Canberra, Alicia Payne, said.
"Lake Burley Griffin will celebrate its 60th anniversary in October, and it is wonderful that paddle boats will be able to take their rightful place at the heart of these celebrations."
The NCA sought a new operator after the 17 boats were removed from operation in late 2023 because they needed repairs.
They were being run by GoBoats whose founder, Nick Tyrrell, said when the boats ceased operating last year: "Our team really enjoyed being part of bringing the paddle boats back to the Lake, but we supported the NCA's decision to retire them after an assessment found they weren't safe anymore."
He promised to help the new operator get back on the water. "We're happy to hear from any new operator with any questions so we can support them to bring the boats back to life."
"Given bushfires, COVID and crazy weather it was always a struggle to eke out any profit while keeping prices low and accessible, but it was a fun exercise," he said.
The original operator of the boats closed to make way for the ACT government's West Basin redevelopment in the mid-2010s.
The City Renewal Authority donated the 17 boats to the National Capital Authority.
