Local business spotlight: Cappy’s Boats
CULLMAN, Ala. – From a pandemic-era conversation between Gretchen and Scott Travis came one of the most recognizable boat rental and cruise services on Smith Lake.
The couple, both longtime visitors to the lake and now owners of Cappy’s Boats, launched the business in 2020 at a time when travel restrictions and social distancing had significantly impacted the way people vacationed.
“During COVID, people couldn’t travel, and we started noticing a lot of folks asking on social media where they could rent a boat locally. We already had a place at the lake, and I mentioned it to Scott. He said, ‘Well, should we start a business doing that?’ I told him we didn’t know anything about boat rentals and he said, ‘We can figure it out.’ So we jumped in with both feet,” said Gretchen Travis.
The couple purchased four boats, and that marked the beginning of Cappy’s Boats. The company has since expanded its fleet and services, with offerings now ranging from pontoons and kayaks to sunset cruises and a floating snack boat, known as The Snacklebox, that travels around Smith Lake.
During the first two seasons, the four boats reached full capacity quickly. “Boats were being used 100% of the time, so we added two more,” said Scott Travis. “We’ve now run six boats for four seasons and recently added a larger cruise boat for captained tours and events.”
The cruise boat has become a popular choice for bachelorette parties, family reunions and out-of-state visitors, available for both half-day and full-day rentals, along with the option for sunset cruises.
This year, the couple introduced their newest addition, The Snacklebox, a floating convenience store that anchors near popular swimming spots, offering snacks and drinks to lakegoers. With GPS technology, visitors can track the boat’s location through a pin on Cappy’s website.
“We’re excited about The Snacklebox. It’s been well received, and we’re hoping it’ll become a staple out on the water,” Scott Travis said.
Cappy’s operates like a hotel-style reservation system for easy accessibility. Customers can book online, select add-ons such as inner tubes, Maui mats or coolers stocked with ice, and receive email reminders and online paperwork before their visit.
For newcomers, safety and ease of use are top priorities.
“Not everyone has boating experience, and Alabama doesn’t require a boating license to rent,” said Scott Travis. “So we’ve created printed guides, safety briefings and one-on-one boat orientations to make sure everyone feels comfortable before heading out.”
Each rental includes full tanks of gas, a QR code that links to lake maps and key locations (including gas docks and scenic spots) and personalized support from the Cappy’s crew to make each outing as easy and enjoyable as possible.
In addition to pontoon and cruise boat rentals, Cappy’s offers kayak rentals for those looking for a more relaxed experience on the lake. The business also offers tow services, trailer rentals and dockside delivery and pickup for a fee. Inside the storefront, customers can find Smith Lake merchandise, sunscreen, towels and other essential items for a day at the lake.
“We just want people to have a great time on the lake,” said Gretchen Travis. “Whether it’s their first visit or their 50th, we’re here to help them enjoy it.”
For more information, visit www.cappysboats.com. Follow on Facebook and Instagram for updates, photos and additional content.
