Matt Ferguson
There’s endless of fun in the Okanagan.
Words by Steve Fennell
What makes SunCruiser-Okanagan magazine so unique to recreational boaters is its all-encompassing focus on our three favourite phrases of the area: visit, discover and explore. Okanagan Lake and the surrounding bodies of fresh water in the region are not only flanked by a series of active communities, but pure nature is dominant along the seemingly endless shorelines, providing a gateway to discovery, while lending a serene back drop when cruising, swimming, and fishing.
The largest body of water in the Tri-Lakes is Okanagan Lake. It prevails at the centrally-located city of Kelowna, with Penticton to the South and Vernon to the North, as well as at the coastlines of the communities in between. At 135 km (84 mi) long, 4 to 5 km (2.5 and 3.1 mi) wide, with a surface area of approximately 348 km2 (134 mi2 ), she’s a good-size lake to navigate. So, if it’s your first season visiting the area or your 20th, using current charts and updated navigation software is advised to ensure you get where you want to go safely and surely.
Nonetheless, the pages of our 2020 SunCruiser-Okanagan edition highlights many quick references and guides to the several destinations on Okanagan Lake, as well as the neighbouring land-locked lakes of Kalamalka (near Vernon), and Skaha (in Penticton). Detailed maps, listed services, hazards, and even marked obstructions above and below the water’s surface are provided in full detail.
Nic Collar Film
Wide open cruising calls all recreational power boaters.
Once you arrive in the region, however, the boating fever hits hard. As finding seclusion or excitement is a craving for many visitors, powering your way to the north eastern shore of Okanagan Lake and Ellison Provincial Park is a great choice. As it encompasses 220 ha (543 ac) of forested bench lands set above rocky shorelines and sheltered coves, it’s landscape that has to be viewed. Or, make your way to the south end of Okanagan Lake and stay on the hook (or mooring ball) overnight in Commando Bay and Okanagan Mountain Park. Another great place is Reluctant Dragon Cove, which is within very close proximity of popular Rattlesnake Island.
The nearby lakes of Skaha and Kalamalka are also worth exploring as both provide great opportunities to fish, relax at anchor, leisurely cruise, drift, practice your yoga on a paddle board, or enjoy a day of wake surfing. Plus, the beaches are perfect to bask in the sun or to cool off with a refreshing swim in the calmer waters.
There’s also endless of excitement on land. By planning a trip around any one of the popular seasonal outdoor events that start as early as April and May, or by visiting the series of attractions throughout the Tri-Lakes, you can easily enjoy the best of both worlds in the Okanagan Valley.
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Kerri-Jo Stewart
Relax and stay a while.
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Nic Collar Film
Easy access to the many destinations on the Okanagan Lake is quick and enjoyable.