It’s been 60 years since Gordon Bay Marine on Lake Joe first welcomed boaters. At that time it served as a humble repair bay, keeping boaters out on the water. Today, it’s so much more.
“At Gordon Bay, we’re not just a marina — we’re a solutions centre designed to elevate every moment you spend on the water,” says Chris Holmes Jr., newly appointed General Manager. “We’re here to inspire confidence, simplify the experience, and help you unlock the full potential of your time on the lake.”
Located at Highway 69 in MacTier, on the west side of Lake Joseph, Gordon Bay Marine is your one-stop destination for all things boating, offering everything from boat sales, service, and storage to parts and accessories, dock slips, fuel for your boat, and food for your crew.
“We have an enhanced fuel dock, ice cream and Pie pizza, a comprehensive retail store, and a large, full-service marina,” says Chris. “It’s a one-stop shop to keep you enjoying the water and all that cottage living has to offer.”
The marina has long been a popular hub for boaters exploring the surrounding lakes and launching their on-water adventures. Now, under the guidance of Chris, former owner of Moon River Marine, the marina is evolving with a renewed commitment to excellence. With a strong belief in a genuine, hands-on, and customer-first approach, Chris and his team are focused on raising the bar – working toward delivering the best marina service experience in the country. The team understands the importance of anticipating customer needs and addressing operational challenges head-on. Subtle yet meaningful upgrades are being made throughout the property, many of them aimed at elevating the level of service. From improvements in dock layout to more efficient customer flow, every detail is being considered to ensure a smoother, more rewarding experience for boaters.
“They’re small changes, but they make a big difference to your boating experience,” he says.
Gordon Bay Marine, Muskoka’s exclusive dealer of Boston Whaler and a proud retailer of Malibu boats, joined the Maple Leaf Marinas (MLM) family in 2022 – bringing this trusted name under the care of Canada’s largest owner and operator of freshwater marinas.
Boston Whaler
“I can’t think of a better pairing: Gordon Bay on Lake Joe and Boston Whaler,” says Steve Tait, Vice President of Sales for Maple Leaf Marinas. “They both have built a reputation for their heritage, longevity, consistency, and reliability.”
Known as the “Unsinkable Legend,” Boston Whaler is arguably one of the safest cruisers on the market today. In fact, the brand is renowned for promotional videos in which they cut a boat in half and cruise it around the bay.
This demonstration goes right back to the founding of Boston Whaler in the late ‘50s. The boat’s inventor, Harvard graduate Dick Fisher, would travel to boat shows, saw the 13-foot boat in half, and either motor around in the aft portion or get in the front portion and row. In 1961, Fisher and his sawed-off boat were featured in a Life Magazine photo spread.
“Once it was published, sales took off, and the rest is maritime history,” says Steve.
Today, the brand’s unsinkability means more than unmatched safety. Its smart design, high-quality construction, and forward-thinking technology make boating comfortable and dependable, whether you’re fishing, cruising, or taking groceries to the cottage.
“It’s one of the safest, easiest-to-own, and most exciting boats available,” says Steve. “And you will only find it here.”
Malibu
Gordon Bay Marine is also the home of Malibu – a towboat built for leisure, performance, and creating the perfect wave for wake riders.
“Malibu’s innovations have shaped the watersports industry again and again, making wakeboarding, surfing and waterskiing more enjoyable,” notes Steve.
Malibu has designed its surf capabilities with incredible flexibility, so riders can tailor the wake to their skill level and riding style.
The boats are known for their award-winning Surf Gate, Wake Plus, and Power Wedge innovations which allow the driver to change the ballast configuration and tailor the height and pitch of the wake with the touch of a button. Malibu has also just released a patented Surf Band which lets the rider adjust their ride while on the water.
“It’s a user-friendly wristband with large, easy-to-use buttons that give the rider control over their wave while surfing,” says Steve. “You no longer have to depend on the driver to make adjustments. Whether you’re surfing a chill wave or launching insane aerial manouevers, the Surf Band puts you in charge.”
Buy where you boat
As certified dealers, Gordon Bay Marine on Lake Joe’s team is trained by each boat brand’s service team directly, giving them inside knowledge on how to care for every model that enters the service bay.
There’s a reason boating experts typically advise you to buy where you boat. “The sales team understands the bodies of water in the area and has in-depth boating experience on these waterways,” Steve explains. “We can put you in a boat that matches the waterways you use and accommodates your lifestyle.”
Whether you want a safe, comfortable cruiser or a tow boat that will keep your family entertained all summer long, the team at Gordon Bay Marine is here to help.
“Let us help you access your ultimate boating lifestyle.”
TEXT SHELANNE AUGUSTINE
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
