Introducing Downtown Marina’s Newest Service: Boat Tours!

Lake Okanagan is one of the many reasons why tourists from all across Canada flock to BC’s Okanagan Valley. It’s long, it’s blue, and it winds through some pretty amazing countryside.

Did you know that the best way to see the valley is by watercraft? When you rent watercraft, you can cruise around to any spot on the lake. However, you’ll have to share your attention with other boaters, water hazards, and your passengers, which can limit the amount of time you’ll spend enjoying the views.

This is just one of the reasons why you should consider booking a Kelowna boat tour instead of a rental. With a tour, you can let someone else drive you and your passengers around. You’ll also receive plenty of insider information on some of the most scenic spots on the lake.

Here are a few more reasons why a tour is a great option:

 

You Can Tour for a Few Hours or an Entire Day 

When you book a fully guided private tour with Downtown Marina, you’ll have the ability to determine the duration of your trip. Whether you’re looking for a full day on the lake or just a half-day, you’ll be able to pick exactly how long you spend touring around.

 

You Can Choose the Destinations

If you choose to book a private tour, you can also pick exactly where you want to go. Head north and discover Lake Country and Vernon. Head south and check out West Kelowna, Peachland, Summerland, and maybe even Penticton. The choice is yours!

 

You Can Bring the Whole Family

Because the tour is held on the luxurious 12-passenger South Bay pontoon boat, there’s enough room for your entire crew, even the dog!

 

You Can Hop Aboard a Public Boat Tour

You’ve been strolling through downtown Kelowna and find yourself near the marina. Staring out at the water, you decide you want a quick tour on the lake. You’re in luck! Downtown Marina offers public tours several times a week. Sailings happen: 

• Fridays at 5pm
• Saturdays at 11am
• Sundays at 1pm

The public tour also offers a pre-determined course, which is great for both locals and visitors. The tour is fully narrated with information about the lake itself, the local history of the valley, some of the wildlife that lives there, and even touches on some of the attractions and activities that take place in Kelowna.

The public tour departs from the dock at Downtown Marina and sails north to Knox Mountain Park. From there, it crosses the lake to the shores of West Kelowna and continues down to the Green Bay area and then back again.

 

You May Even See the Ogopogo

A trip to the Okanagan wouldn’t be complete without an Ogopogo sighting. In case you haven’t heard of the Ogopogo, it’s a sea creature that’s made a home of Okanagan Lake. It’s rumoured that it spends most of its time around Rattlesnake Island near Peachland. 

Seeing the Ogopogo is a rare occurrence, but being out on the water definitely increases your chances!

 

Make Sure You Come Prepared

If you’re ready to experience the Okanagan via boat tour, there are a few things you should consider: 

• Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. It’s usually really sunny out there!
• Bring your best smile and your camera
• Bring your own water and snacks or buy them from us
• Be ready to have a great time!

 

If you’re planning on booking a private tour, check out our previous post for some of the best places to see on the lake: The Must-have Boater’s Guide to Touring Lake Okanagan.

 

Whether you want a fully guided tour, a rental, or a seat on the most scenic boat pier on the lake, consider Downtown Marina in Kelowna. We have everything you need for a fun-filled day on the lake. Call us to learn more: 778-760-1500.