Hi @Karen4523, sounds like an incredible spot you’ve got! I actually stayed at a remote island cabin near Sharbot Lake, Ontario…very similar setup to what you’re describing. Beautiful stay, but I’ll be honest, there were a few surprises that made us wish for a stocked fridge option, or at least a better sense of what was available.
We had a canoe overflowing with coolers and gear for a 3-day stay, and didn’t quite realize how tough the hike would be from the water to the cabin…steep, rough, and a real workout. Once we got there, we discovered the solar wasn’t functioning properly, which meant no way to charge phones (needed for emergency weather alerts), and the shower was out of commission unless you hauled five-gallon pails up that same hill. A stocked fridge or pre-packed essentials would’ve been a game-changer.
If you're thinking of offering this as an upsell or add-on, here are a few things I’ve learned from both sides of the paddle:
- Set a clear cutoff time for orders. I’ve offered things like preferred milk for morning coffee or surprise treats for celebrations, but if you don’t give a firm deadline, you’ll get last-minute requests that are hard to manage—especially in remote areas.
- Start with a limited, curated list. Keeps expectations in check and makes things scalable as you test it out. Think basics & a couple thoughtful extras.
- Make sure it’s worth your time. Between the shopping, prepping, and paddling in, make sure the ROI adds up—not just in dollars, but in effort and energy too.
It’s a really thoughtful offering and definitely something guests will appreciate—but your own experience as host matters just as much.
Hope that helps, and would love to hear what you decide! Sounds like an unforgettable experience in the making.
