After seven years at the foot of Prince Street, Caron Prins is floating her Chip Shack over to the Charlottetown Marina.
She’s looking to make the move on June 1.
“My actual structure is going to be lifted and put onto a barge easy dock, and we’re going to put her in the water,” Prins said Monday, adding it will then be tugged over and nestled into the corner at Quartermaster Marine, which is now called Charlottetown Marina.
Prins, also known in Charlottetown as the “Queen of Fries," is forced to move because Paul Madden, who owns the property she’s currently located on, is having the area developed as per an agreement with the Charlottetown Harbour Authority to turn part of Founders’ Hall into a farmers market. Her business simply didn’t fit into the new plans.
“Paul has been fabulous. I love Paul, he’s done a lot of great things for me, but now, with renting out to the port authority, I’m kind of in a conflict of interest.’’
Knowing she needed a location, Prins was approached by the owners of Steamers boathouse restaurant on the Charlottetown waterfront. They told Prins they were interested in putting in a restaurant like hers and asked if she’d be interested.
“I said yes with a capital Y,’’ she said, quickly moving her arms above her head for emphasis. “Oh, my gosh. The great thing is I’ll have a permanent home for a while.’’
Prins said her new setup will include eight picnic tables that will be nestled into the corner on the floating dock with her. She’s not sure if the new location will be wheelchair accessible, but she is willing to run food up to people if they can’t get down.
And, while the picnic tables will be on the floating dock, Prins said those who tend to get seasick very easily need not worry. She said the area is protected from the wind and wave action, so there should not be any problems.
Prins said she’s grateful for the chance to get the word out to her dedicated customers, those who have been there for her when she’s had to fight battles with city council, for example. Four years ago, there were issues over food trailers, such as hers.
“When I was having a few issues, they came out and helped save my business. I can’t express how grateful I am. This little shack has some magic to it.’’
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