Naples (WGME) — As small businesses in Naples are looking ahead to summer, some are afraid of not seeing as many tourists as usual.
“This will be a very challenging year at best,” says Kent Uiker, with the Songo River Queen owner.
Kent Uiker runs the Songo River Queen, a tour boat that’s graced the waters of Long Lake for 50 years.
Uiker says his business relied on private charters with up to 150 people at a time.
“Those have all naturally canceled and I’ve had to return deposits on, so I’m running down into negative cash flow,” says Uiker.
With the Governor’s reopening guidelines he can only allow 10 people on the boat right now an option he says isn’t worth pursuing.
“I would lose more money by operating than I would by not operating,” says Uiker.
Uiker plans to wait until July 1st when he can allow up to 50 people on board he says he needs at least 30 to break even.
“This will get us through the season and hopefully get back to normal after that,” says Uiker.
The head of Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce says most businesses in the area need summer tourists to make it through the winter.
“I’m afraid they’re going to have to close,” says Robin Mullins with Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce.
She says the mandatory two-week travel quarantine is going to hurt them.
“The thought of not having some of theses businesses here is absolutely devastating for me and for many people in this area,” says Mullins.
They both say the town will suffer if they aren’t able to welcome tourists.
“Usually people would like to be enjoying a little more activity than what we have to offer right now,” says Uiker.
The head of the Sebago Lakes Region Chamber of Commerce says they’re writing a letter to Governor Mills urging her to get rid of the mandatory two week quarantine.
They plan to send that letter this week.