Siegfried Quast was the visionary who started the business. With formal training in metallurgy, he built his first vessel in 1975 as a pleasure craft for his family to enjoy. From this original design, he crafted over 40 houseboats across two decades, all of which are still stout, seaworthy and afloat today. His dedication to manufacturing resulted in the slow and steady growth of a highly sought out on water family adventure. Siegfried used his skills and knowledge with precision and purpose and manufactured custom vessels that were designed and custom built in Canada for the uniqueness of the Kawarthas. With each houseboat that was manufactured, the design evolved and improved to ensure that each vessel continued to exceed safety standards and functionality.
Siegfried passed away unexpectedly in 1997 and the family was devastated.
But the houseboat story continued. Jill and Frank met while on a houseboat adventure and their partnership continues today with the third generation now learning the ropes.
For over 31 years, Frank was a firefighter with the City of Toronto and retired as a Captain. With his professional background, he has made safety on board and on the water a priority. He enthusiastically shares his local knowledge and passion for houseboating and his motto is “any boat ride is a good boat ride”.
Jill administers the business operations and has enjoyed developing community and industry partnerships. For her the greatest privilege has always been to welcome guests to the marina and to the area while helping to curate a memorable adventure.
Through uncontrollable circumstances, the operation of the Happy Days Houseboats rental fleet ceased in the spring of 2021. This was neither intended or expected and there is heartfelt sadness that this era at Happy Days has ended.
With resolution and resiliency, the family and business is holding steady on course because there are many happy days and nauti nights yet to come.
