Popular party-boat franchise Port Tiki has opened its second location in Glen Cove, charting new waters on the Long Island Sound. The Port Washington-based franchise opened in 2022 and sails along the north shore of the island on a Caribbean-themed boat equipped with a bar.
“I just saw so much potential,” said Matthew Bittner, the Glen Cove franchisee. He said he wanted to bring something “new and exciting” to the Glen Cove community and was inspired by his previous experience with Port Tiki.
Bittner is a Williston Park resident who has been a frequent traveler on the tiki boat since its opening three years ago Bittner said he has previously spoken with Ken Tokar, the franchise’s owner, about expanding the business. Inspired by his retirement as a corrections officer, Bittner decided to bring his love for the business to a new community.
Bittner said that when he was deliberating about what his next venture should be, he asked himself, “What’s better than spending some time on the water?”
The Glen Cove tiki boat launched on Memorial Day Weekend.
Bittner said it docks at the marina next to Gravies’ Point Brewery, located at 45 Herb Hill Road, before sailing on the Long Island Sound. He said it’s the perfect place as customers can order food and drinks from the restaurant before getting on the boat, which is “BYOB.”
“My vision is kind of coming true,” Bittner said. He said that after the boat finishes its course, he often sees groups heading to the brewery for a drink or bite to eat.
From the marina, Bittner said the boat can stay at the port, especially in cases of bad weather, or travel along the coast of Long Island’s North Shore. The boat, which takes an approximate two-hour trip at both locations, boards up to 16 people per trip in Port Washington and 18 people per trip in Glen Cove.
Bittner said the boat is a bring-your-own-everything boat, including food, drinks, and cutlery, although there is a dedicated bar space for travelers to set up. He said there is a bathroom on board.
For more information on Port Tiki, visit porttiki.com.
