By John Morton
There’s nothing like enjoying Florida in an open-air vehicle, Ed Arsenault says, and with an ongoing push to create more parking for golf carts there may also be nothing more convenient.
“The businesses and the county have been meeting to discuss the importance of creating more spaces for carts,” said Arsenault, owner of the new Salt Water Therapy business that will feature golf-cart rentals. “So often you go to a business where there’s already 70 cars and nowhere to park.”
Currently on Siesta Key, only Captain Curt’s and the south Daiquiri Deck provide such spots, Arsenault believes.
“But that’s going to change,” he said. “And it will be a win-win for everyone.”
The shortage of rental cars also bodes well for the golf-cart business, Arsenault said.
He is setting up shop at 5249 Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Beach Plaza in the Village, with a Nov. 1 opening the target. Starting in mid-October, he established a temporary business with Siesta Key Aqua Adventures on Tamiami Trail, just north of Phillippi Creek.
His carts are street-legal, and are recommended only for use on the Key as they can’t exceed 35 mph.
His current inventory consists of three carts — two four-passenger vehicles he calls “Woodys” (thanks to their wood paneling) and one six-passenger vehicle he calls “Scooter of the Beach” in tribute to Siesta Beach lifeguard Scot Nuberg, whose Facebook posts are popular on social media.
Driving is restricted to those 23 years of age and up and require a driver’s license and proof of insurance.
Rates for the four-seater are $125 for one day, $225 for two days, $350 for three days, and $600 for a week.
The six-seater goes for $175 for a day, $325 for two days, $450 for three days, and $650 for a week.
The carts are fuel-injected, 15 horsepower 2022 Kawasaki models.
Customers get free delivery, free pick-up, a free tank of gas that Arsenal says will take you about 250 miles, and a free Salt Water Therapy T-shirt.
“We’re also an apparel company. We’ve got lots of cool stuff,” Arsenault said.
For more information, call (941) 960-6350 or visit swtcarts.com.
Author: John Morton