Cruisin’ Tikis: Redefining Leisure with Floating Tiki Bar Adventures

Cruisin’ Tikis brings a fresh twist to the tour and leisure industry by offering memorable floating tiki bar experiences throughout the U.S. Launched in 2015, the brand has expanded swiftly, now operating more than 100 tiki boats in over 40 cities. Based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the company began offering franchise opportunities in 2018, enabling entrepreneurs to manage their own tiki boat cruise operations.

The business revolves around providing relaxing water tours aboard custom-built, thatch-roofed tiki boats designed for comfort and fun. Each vessel seats up to six guests and comes equipped with a licensed captain, a cooler with ice, and a Bluetooth speaker system for entertainment.

Guests can bring their own snacks and beverages, which adds a personalized touch to the cruise and elevates the experience beyond the typical sightseeing tour. This casual, festive format sets Cruisin’ Tikis apart by blending the charm of a tropical bar with the tranquility of a boat ride.

In early 2025, the brand was acquired by TourScale, a prominent operator of experiential tour franchises. This acquisition is expected to boost growth and provide expanded support for franchise owners, helping them scale more effectively while maintaining the unique appeal of the Cruisin’ Tikis concept.

Training

Cruisin' Tikis provides limited formal training programs for franchisees. Here's a summary of the training offerings:

1. No Initial Training Program: Cruisin' Tikis does not conduct a formal initial training program for new franchisees. They typically target experienced boat operators who are presumed to need less foundational training.
2. Annual Meetings and Refresher Training: The franchisor may conduct annual meetings and optional or required refresher training sessions. Franchisees, their owners, and selected personnel may be required to attend and successfully complete these training events, which can be delivered in-person or virtually.
3. Ongoing Advice and Guidance: From time to time, Cruisin' Tikis may provide advice and general operational guidance. However, this is offered at the franchisor’s discretion and does not create a binding obligation to continue providing such support.

Territory Protection

Cruisin' Tikis grants franchisees a Designated Territory but does not offer full exclusivity. While no other Cruisin’ Tikis vessels can operate in that territory if the franchisee is compliant, the franchisor may allow others to solicit customers there.

Franchisees need written approval to provide services outside their territory. They also receive a right of first refusal if the franchisor decides additional vessels can be supported in their area.