The SS Sicamous is a unique part of the Okanagan’s heritage. The luxury stern-wheeler began plying the waters of Okanagan Lake in 1914, serving remote communities throughout the Okanagan Valley from Penticton to Okanagan Landing. (Susie McAdam/ Amateur Photography Entry)

Penticton: This luxury stern-wheeler is a waterfront must-see

April 27, 2020 // by Paul Bucci

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A unique part of the Okanagan’s history is preserved with loving care on the shore of Okanagan lake on the beautiful Penticton waterfront.

Visitors to the area will see the spectacular SS Sicamous, a luxury vessel that was built in the Okanagan and serviced remote communities along Okanagan Lake.

Launched in 1914 as cargo and passenger transportation vessel, the Sicamous is now a museum and heritage site cared for by a non-profit society. (Chech this website for more information.)

Meanwhile, the defining feature of the incredibly fertile Okanagan Valley is Okanagan Lake, a 135-kilometre long waterway that forms the area’s backbone.

It’s large, deep and popular for swimming, boating, fishing and more, and cities on the lake include Kelowna, West Kelowna, Vernon, Penticton, Lake Country, Summerland, as well as the famous winery community of Naramata.

In addition, no description of Okanagan Lake would be complete without mentioning the Ogopogo, a mythical lake monster said to resemble a long, dragon-like serpent.

First Nations people in the area traditionally refer to the Ogopogo as Naitaka, which has various translations, including water demon and water god.

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