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Original Kayak Adventures
Original Kayak Adventures (OKA) offers guided eco-tours and kayak rentals along the Hudson River.
Background
John and Edie Caputo, who are avid kayakers and amateur naturalist, founded OKA tow years ago. The Caputos spent many weekends and vacations exploring the Hudson’s numerous creeks and tributaries. John was a sales representative and Edie worked for a Web design firm. Two years ago, John’s division was purchased by a rival company, which announced plans to move operations to another state. Rather than relocate, the Caputos decided to launch OKA. They reasoned that Edie could leave her job and work as a free-lance Web designer, which would provide some income while John tried to build OKA into a profitable business. John and Edie are convinced that the eco-tourism market will expand greatly, and they look forward to sharing their experience and knowledge with others who enjoy nature and kayaking.
Original Kayak Adventures advertises in regional magazines and maintains a Web site, which Edie designed. Customers say that the site is attractive and informative, but the Caputos are not sure of its effectiveness in attracting new business. At this time, no other kayak rentals firms operate within 20 miles of OKA’s location.
So far, the Caputos’ plan is working out well. OKA rents space at a nearby marina, where Edie runs the office and operates her Web design business. She also handles rentals when John is giving lessons or busy with a tour group. On summer weekends and holidays, Janet Jacobs, a local college student, handles telephone inquiries and reservations.
OKA’s inventory includes 16 rentals kayaks of various types, eight car-top carriers, and a large assortment of accessories and safety equipment. Based on customers requests, Edie is considering adding a selection of books and videos about kayaking and eco-tourism.
OKA has three main business segments: rentals, instruction, and guided tours. Most customers
Original Kayak Adventures (OKA) offers guided eco-tours and kayak rentals along the Hudson River.
Background
John and Edie Caputo, who are avid kayakers and amateur naturalist, founded OKA tow years ago. The Caputos spent many weekends and vacations exploring the Hudson’s numerous creeks and tributaries. John was a sales representative and Edie worked for a Web design firm. Two years ago, John’s division was purchased by a rival company, which announced plans to move operations to another state. Rather than relocate, the Caputos decided to launch OKA. They reasoned that Edie could leave her job and work as a free-lance Web designer, which would provide some income while John tried to build OKA into a profitable business. John and Edie are convinced that the eco-tourism market will expand greatly, and they look forward to sharing their experience and knowledge with others who enjoy nature and kayaking.
Original Kayak Adventures advertises in regional magazines and maintains a Web site, which Edie designed. Customers say that the site is attractive and informative, but the Caputos are not sure of its effectiveness in attracting new business. At this time, no other kayak rentals firms operate within 20 miles of OKA’s location.
So far, the Caputos’ plan is working out well. OKA rents space at a nearby marina, where Edie runs the office and operates her Web design business. She also handles rentals when John is giving lessons or busy with a tour group. On summer weekends and holidays, Janet Jacobs, a local college student, handles telephone inquiries and reservations.
OKA’s inventory includes 16 rentals kayaks of various types, eight car-top carriers, and a large assortment of accessories and safety equipment. Based on customers requests, Edie is considering adding a selection of books and videos about kayaking and eco-tourism.
OKA has three main business segments: rentals, instruction, and guided tours. Most customers