Burlington Tour Operator Cuts Segway Tours Drastically Amid Drop in Canadian Visitors
Why Canadian Visitors Are Key to Burlington’s Tour Economy
A Burlington-based tour company has reduced its annual Segway tour offerings from 500 to just 60, citing a sharp decline in Canadian tourists as the primary reason. The change reflects broader struggles faced by Vermont tourism businesses reliant on cross-border travel, particularly from neighboring Quebec and Ontario. Operator Stacey Sloughfy confirmed the adjustment, noting that only 50 to 60 tours are now expected for the year, down significantly from pre-pandemic levels. The shift highlights how sensitive local tour operators are to fluctuations in international visitation, especially from Canada, which historically contributed a substantial share of seasonal customers.
Canadian travelers have long been a cornerstone of Burlington’s tourism market, drawn by proximity, favorable exchange rates, and shared cultural interests. Segway tours, popular among visitors exploring the city’s waterfront and downtown areas, have traditionally seen strong uptake from this demographic. However, recent travel patterns show fewer Canadians making cross-border trips, influenced by evolving travel habits, economic factors, and lingering hesitations post-pandemic. Sloughfy explained that while domestic tourism has remained steady, it has not compensated for the loss of international guests. „We used to rely on weekend visitors from Montreal and Toronto,” she said. „Now, we’re seeing fewer multi-day stays and more day-trippers who opt for self-guided exploration.”
How Will Local Businesses Adapt to Fewer Guided Tours?
In response to declining demand, some operators are shifting focus toward self-guided tour options, bike rentals, and partnerships with local hotels to attract independent travelers. Others are experimenting with shorter, themed experiences tailored to daytime visitors rather than overnight guests. Sloughfy noted that flexibility is becoming essential for survival in a changing market. „We’re not abandoning Segways entirely,” she said. „But we’re scaling back and looking at ways to make the experience more accessible and appealing to a broader audience, including locals and regional day-trippers.” Industry observers warn that without renewed cross-border engagement, similar cuts could spread to other guided activities like kayak tours and historical walks.
Why did the tour operator reduce Segway tours from 500 to 60? The reduction is due to a significant drop in Canadian tourists, who historically made up a large portion of the customer base for guided tours in Burlington.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are other types of tours in Vermont also affected by fewer Canadian visitors? Yes, businesses offering kayak tours, bike rentals, and historical walks have reported similar declines, especially those dependent on cross-border traffic from Quebec and Ontario.
What alternatives are tour operators exploring to offset the loss? Operators are increasing efforts to promote self-guided options, partnering with local accommodations, and designing shorter, flexible experiences to attract regional and domestic travelers.