Boating Guide to Kelowna and the Okanagan - Getmyboat

Kelowna is a gorgeous city in British Columbia, Canada, in the Okanagan region. It’s the vibrant heart of Canada’s wine country, full of amazing wineries and lots of beautiful outdoor space to explore and enjoy. Tourists flock to Kelowna year-round. Whether it’s in the winter to ski the mountains, the autumn to taste wines during harvest season, or summer to enjoy fun in the sun, there’s something to enjoy in Kelowna no matter when you visit.

Looking to check out the famous wineries of the Okanagan? Read this post on the 23 Best Wineries in the Okanagan.

The focal point of nature in Kelowna is Okanagan Lake, a large and deep lake in the middle of the region. It’s a beloved spot for boating, swimming, water sports, and other recreation in the summer months.

If you need more ideas on things to do when traveling to Kelowna, check out this guide to Top 10 things to do in Kelowna with your family.

Things to do by boat in Kelowna, British Columbia

Exploring Okanagan Lake by Boat

Okanagan Lake is the largest body of water in Kelowna. It’s a popular lake for boating, swimming, and water activities like wakeboarding, windsurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and more. Boat rentals are plentiful and perfect for visitors looking to get the full lake life experience in Kelowna during a visit in the summer.

For travelers to Kelowna who wish to stay on a boat overnight, houseboat rentals are available for Okanagan Lake.

On the north side of the lake, you can enjoy the popular boating stop Raymer Bay Beach, Bear Creek, or Paul’s Tomb. There are picnic areas and moorage spots for overnight stays on this side of Okanagan Lake.

Squally Point is the place on Okanagan Lake for cliff jumping, so adventurous boaters can stop here for a thrilling jump from the high cliffs into the lake. Just be careful of seasonal warnings and look before you leap.

On the south side, explore hot spots like Rattlesnake Island. An island with abandoned structures, it is a fantastic spot for getting off your boat rental and hiking around. This part of Okanagan Lake will also take you to small towns outside of Kelowna like Summerland and Peachland.

Boating on Kalamalka Lake

Not nearly as big as Okanagan Lake, Kalamalka Lake is still highly worth a visit, due to its unbelievably beautiful color and pristine natural surroundings. It glows turquoise surrounded by green forests and mountains and is wonderful for hiking around or enjoying recreation on the water, like swimming, boating, and cliff jumping. Kalamalka Lake is great for renting speedboats, pontoons, kayaks, jet skis, or paddleboards and enjoying the gorgeous views on the water.

Types of boats to rent in Kelowna

Pontoon Rentals on Okanagan Lake

Want to party with your family or friends and cruise around Okanagan Lake at a relaxed speed? This pontoon fits 14 passengers and is perfect for a chill boat day. Prices start at just $88/hour for this pontoon rental on Okanagan Lake. If you need a captain included, that will be an additional $50/hour. With its multi-functional floor plan, super-comfortable seating and impeccable build quality, it's the kind of boat that families can easily come to love. The owner of this pontoon is also flexible and can help to coordinate delivery to any boat ramp in Kelowna, included in the cost of the rental.

Speedboats for water sports

Looking to enjoy waterskiing or wakeboarding on Okanagan Lake? This Heyday wake tractor enables you to enjoy the most popular water sport out there without breaking the bank, prices for this rental start at $636 for a whole day. This boat creates a great wave to surf and can seat up to 12 people.

This boat is designed to get people into wake sports, and it does so in the simplest possible fashion. It’s great for beginners or avid water sports enthusiasts.

Houseboat Rentals on Lake Okanagan

Enjoy Kelowna on a houseboat charter for up to 71 guests! Charter this amazing 75' Houseboat on Okanagan Lake for as low as $400 per hour depending on the time of year. It’s great for weddings, large family gatherings, corporate parties, and more. You can book additional entertainment on this houseboat charter like a Live D.J. or Live Rock, Blues, or Disco/Funk Band.

Our two full-service cruise boats are the perfect way to enjoy Okanagan Lake. This houseboat company offers daily public cruises with complete meal and bar service, along with music and fantastic views. Celebrate your special event on this houseboat with stunning Okanagan Lake views as the backdrop.

Parasailing Adventures in Kelowna

Fly Sky High on a parasailing trip in Kelowna! Soar above Lake Okanagan on a parasailing experience. Our custom-built Transport Canada Approved Parasail winch boat can take you and your family out on Lake Okanagan for a view and a ride that is guaranteed to be the highlight of your summer.

Up to ten participants or passengers are welcome aboard the vessel for each charter, so no one has to miss out on the fun! Bring a friend or two to fly with you, we offer single, tandem, and triple parasail experiences. Pricing starts at $90/single, or $75/per person for Tandems and Triples.

Jet ski rentals on Okanagan Lake

A fantastic way to explore Okanagan Lake at high speed is with a jet ski rental. Fly through the waves, stop off at sandy beaches, or race your friends on a jet ski rental. Jet ski pricing for a rental on Okanagan Lake starts at $50/hour, making it a budget-friendly activity for a few hours in the summer in Kelowna.

Kayak & Stand-up Paddleboard Rentals on Okanagan Lake

Okanagan Lake and Lake Kalamalka are fabulous destinations for stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Nothing will feel more serene than quietly paddling yourself through the clear waters of the lake, taking in the sounds of nature on your self-powered craft.

Paddleboarders can enjoy more than just cruising around. You can try paddle surfing, distance racing, fitness paddling, Yoga or Pilates paddling and even fishing. Pack a picnic on your SUP or kayak rental if you choose to stop at a beach and relax and refuel. Always make sure you have a lifejacket and plenty of water when kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding around in Kelowna.

No matter what type of water activity you enjoy, you can find the perfect thing for you to enjoy your stay in Kelowna. Do not miss out on getting on the water, especially if you visit in summer or autumn.