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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a tour and a charter?
A tour is open to everyone, all of the public is welcome. You cruise leisurely into the heart of the valley for 2 or 3 hours and can select beverages or food items from our onboard menu. If you travel on our 9:00 PM - Midnight tour, there is often live music booked on board for your enjoyment as well.
A charter is private event, not open to the public. A private charter books the whole boat for the number of hours that suits your event. There is no minimum number of people required, however, the cost per person is minimized by maximizing your guest list. The event can be catered by Cruise Okanagan, opening up a whole new menu such as roast beef, salmon, Mexican food...you dream it - we'll cook it!
2. How do I get to Paddlewheel Park?
Take Highway 97 South to 25th Avenue (Okanagan Landing Road) and turn West. Paddlewheel Park is about 7 km from this turning point. If you see the Yacht Club - you have gone too far! Paddlewheel Park is adjacent to the Yacht Club but you cannot access it from there. Watch for our sign at the entrance to Paddlewheel Park. View our Map
3. Where do I park my vehicle when I get there?
When you turn into the park, go past the tennis courts and you will be able to park anywhere along the fence (the old boat launch parking area). Many of our guests park in the 1st parking lot they come to, and while you can - it is a bit of a walk to the boat, so why not drive right in and save your feet the work!
4. How do I reserve seats to ensure our group can all get on the same cruise?
Call us in advance to reserve your seats. We will hold your seats for you and your guests with a visa number (sorry we don't take MasterCard); If you don't want to pay for the seats with your Visa, no problem, just let us know and we will just hold the number and you can pay cash at the boat. The only way the visa would be billed then is if you didn't show up to claim your seat. Remember, reserving a seat on the boat is just like reserving one on a plane, we only have 32 seats to sell and if you reserve one - it's yours.
5. There is just the two of us, what if we don't want to reserve a seat?
Seating is available on a "first come first served" basis, so you may be able to walk on and get a seat, but last season we had many disappointed people who came to the park only to find us fully reserved. If you are planning to drive out there, give us a call and ask what our seating is like...we'll be happy to let you know how full the boat is!
6. Can I bring my own food and drinks on the boat?
No, Cruise Okanagan is a fully licensed facility. You can purchase food and beverages (alcoholic and non) on board.
7. What can I expect on a cruise?
An extraordinary escape from the ordinary. The ultimate sight-seeing experience in the Okanagan. You will board at Paddlewheel Park, feel free to sit on the upper deck in the open air, or down below under cover. Once comfortably seated, our server will be by to take your order. Sit back and relax while we cruise you into the heart of the valley, through Adventure Bay and past Ellison Park. Mingle with the other guests and our friendly crew. Who knows - you might even spot the Ogopogo!
8. I want to give my parents something really special for their anniversary - do you have gift certificates?
We have lovely gift certificates in $25 or $50 denominations. The certificate is in the form of a card and comes with an envelope. Or if you just wanted to buy a couple of tickets valid for any cruise, we can do that as well.
9. I heard you have live music on board sometimes, do people dance?
We do have live music on board almost every weekend, and yes sometimes people do dance even though we are space limited. It's a great way to spend the night, under the stars, great music, good food, great people!
10. Can I bring my kids?
Kids are always welcome with the exception of the 9pm - midnight cruises. You must be minimum 16 years of age for that one. Don't forget to keep a close eye on your child, the boat can be a dangerous place for unsupervised children.
11. Is it safe?
The "Spirit of the Okanagan" is a Coast Guard Certified boat. That
means every year we are inspected to ensure that all safety equipment,
licenses etc., are current, properly checked and in good working order.
Our captain and crew are trained in CPR, Man Overboard, and other life
saving skills. Our captain holds all of the necessary tickets and has
the experience to pilot the boat safely. In the event of an emergency,
the boat is equipped with a life raft and more than enough life jackets for
the maximum number of guests aboard.
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