Entspannte Flusstour für ein oder mehrere(viele) auf verschiedenen Schlauchringen und Schlauchinseln. 1,5 h oder 3 h mit Busrücktransport. Und ein Bad zwischendrin ist auch noch möglich.
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Penticton Channel Float

4.6
·39 reviews·Penticton, Canada

Drift lazily down a 7km channel from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake, enjoying the Okanagan sun and scenery. A quintessential summer activity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, early mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
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Entspannte Flusstour für ein oder mehrere(viele) auf verschiedenen Schlauchringen und Schlauchinseln. 1,5 h oder 3 h mit Busrücktransport. Und ein Bad zwischendrin ist auch noch möglich.

Penticton Channel Float

Best Time

Weekdays, early mornings

Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Drift lazily down a 7km channel from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake, enjoying the Okanagan sun and scenery. A quintessential summer activity.

4.6
(39 reviews)

"3 words-Relaxing, Fun & Memorable. Bring your own float so you don't have to pay."

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Floatie! :inflatable_boat:

Save money and guarantee a spot by bringing your own float. Rentals can sell out quickly!

Pack Smart: Sunscreen & Snacks :sun_with_face:

The float takes 2-3 hours, so pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 7km Channel Journey

The 7km Channel Journey

Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake

Drift lazily for 2-3 hours on a giant floatie, enjoying the Okanagan sun and scenery. A quintessential summer experience.

Coyote Cruises Rentals

Coyote Cruises Rentals

Riverside Drive

Rent a variety of floaties, from single tubes to party rafts, and utilize their shuttle service for a hassle-free adventure.

Party Raft Adventure

Party Raft Adventure

Penticton Channel

Gather your friends for a unique group experience on a large inflatable, complete with coolers and music.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything for Your Float

The Penticton Channel Float is a popular summer activity, so expect crowds, especially on weekends and during peak season. Consider weekdays or early mornings for a more relaxed experience. Renting your own floatie can save money and ensure you have one available, as rentals can sell out.

Logistics for a Smooth Float

Plan your transportation: park at the end and take a taxi back to the start, or utilize shuttle services offered by rental companies. Bringing your own inflatable, snacks, and plenty of sunscreen is highly recommended for the 2-3 hour journey. A paddle can be useful for navigating.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, early mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends, late afternoon
Why
Sun is less intense
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekends
Why
Peak season, lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🏊🏼‍♂️🌊🦈MOLOKAI CHANNEL SWIM - March 18th-25th🪼🌋🐳 Apparently swimming a 106km lake makes me a pussy according to @bertkreischer so I’m tackling the ocean next. All jokes aside, I’m excited to take the next step in my ultra swimming career and challenge myself in the open ocean. The Molokai Channel is a 42km stretch between the islands of Molokai and Oahu in Hawaii. I’ll be flying to Hawaii on March...
@notsobadnick
66.2K likes • 627.7K views

Bring Your Own Floatie! :inflatable_boat:

Save money and guarantee a spot by bringing your own float. Rentals can sell out quickly! Instagram

Pack Smart: Sunscreen & Snacks :sun_with_face:

The float takes 2-3 hours, so pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks. Reddit

One of the best spots to view Okanagan beach and Lakeshore drive in Penticton is from the deck of the historic S.S. Sicamous (which just celebrated its 110th birthday!). #visitpenticton #visitsouthokanagan #thompsonokanagan #explorebc #okanaganbeach #okanaganlake #spring #sssicamous
@visit.penticton
8.5K likes • 475.9K views
🛶 CHANNEL FLOAT 💦 @coyotecruises in Penticton was a chill day to float around. We had the four person quad floatie and it took us 2 hours to do the full run that day. I ain’t the lay and tan type so I was in the water swimming the whole time with the ducks. They shuttle you back with a bus if you purchased a wristband 🏊 #visitpenticton #coyotecruises #pentictonbc
heyhangryhippo
46 likes • 2.8K views

Transportation Hack :taxi:

Park at the end and cab back to the start to avoid waiting for a shuttle at the finish. Reddit

Paddle Power :rowboat:

A paddle can be helpful for fending off the shore and navigating the current. Reddit

In the summertime, we float the Penticton Channel with @coyotecruises #okfamilyfun #okanaganfamily #coyotecruises #pentictonchannel #riverchannel #summertime #okanagan #penticton #pentictonbc
okfamilyfun
81 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Floatie! :inflatable_boat:

Save money and guarantee a spot by bringing your own float. Rentals can sell out quickly! Instagram

Pack Smart: Sunscreen & Snacks :sun_with_face:

The float takes 2-3 hours, so pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks. Reddit

Transportation Hack :taxi:

Park at the end and cab back to the start to avoid waiting for a shuttle at the finish. Reddit

Paddle Power :rowboat:

A paddle can be helpful for fending off the shore and navigating the current. Reddit

Make it a Party :musical_note:

Rent a large raft, bring a cooler and speaker for a fun group outing. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(39 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally find the Penticton Channel Float to be a relaxing and fun summer activity, especially for families and groups. While some find the current a bit slow, many appreciate the scenic journey and the convenience of rental services. It's a quintessential Okanagan experience for enjoying the sunshine.

"I’ve experienced the lazy rivers in Victoria, BC, and Toronto, ON, and can compare all three. This one was way too slow 🦥 — only the swimming ducks provided a bit of entertainment."

Yana Zinovyeva

"3 words-Relaxing, Fun & Memorable.
Bring your own float so you don't have to pay. It is a ~2.5hrs ride, so bring yarrr sunscreen, water and snacks.

Cheers!"

William Josh Lihoc

"This is a fun thing to do when in Penticton. We could have used our paddle boards and it would have been a faster float. There are parking areas at both ends to drop a car for pick up. However, we rented a 4 person tube and got two paddles. We bought the cooler and bluetooth speaker and just made it an event. It is a nice, easy float. Staff were great. Very friendly. And pick up was a breeze at the end. We had a nice time. Float was around 2 hours total."

Julie Bromet

What People Like

Relaxing and scenic
Fun for families
Great group activity

What People Dislike

Current can be slow

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The float typically starts at Coyote Cruises on Riverside Drive, near Okanagan Lake. Many visitors park their cars at the Skaha Lake end and take a taxi or rideshare back to the start. InstagramReddit

Yes, there are parking areas at both the start (near Okanagan Lake) and the end (near Skaha Lake). It's recommended to coordinate parking if you're using your own vehicle for transport. Reddit

Many people arrange for a taxi or rideshare to pick them up at the end point near Skaha Lake and take them back to their parked car at the start. Some rental companies also offer shuttle services. InstagramReddit

You can use your own car by parking one at the start and one at the end, or by driving to the start, floating, and then arranging a ride back to your car. Some groups opt to have one person drive back to retrieve the car. Reddit

While specific bus routes directly to the start point might vary, Penticton has a public transit system that can get you to the general area. It's advisable to check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Costs vary depending on whether you rent a floatie or bring your own. Rentals from companies like Coyote Cruises can range from around $36 for a single tube plus bus ride to $100 for a 4-person raft. Bringing your own float is free, but you might pay for shuttle services. TikTokInstagram

It's highly recommended to book your floatie rental in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends, as they can sell out quickly. Instagram

The channel float is a seasonal activity, typically operating during the warmer months. Coyote Cruises, a popular rental provider, generally operates from late spring through early fall. It's best to check their specific hours of operation. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Bringing your own floatie is a great way to save money and ensure you have a comfortable ride. Instagram+1

Generally, the Penticton Channel Float is considered a family-friendly activity. However, specific rental companies might have age recommendations or require adult supervision for minors. Instagram+1

🎫 ☀️ Onsite Experience

The float typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete the full 7km stretch from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake. Some people choose to float only a portion of the channel. InstagramReddit

The current is generally described as slow to moderate, making it a relaxing experience. However, some visitors have noted it can be faster than expected in certain sections. InstagramReddit

Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing and swimwear. A hat and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. Water shoes are also a good idea to protect your feet. TikTok

Yes, bringing your own snacks and drinks is highly encouraged as the float can take a few hours. Many people bring coolers to keep their refreshments cold. InstagramReddit

Yes, it's a popular family activity. Ensure children are supervised and comfortable in the water. Double-check with rental companies about any specific recommendations for young children. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Capture scenic shots of Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake, the surrounding natural beauty, and fun group photos on your floatie. The reflections on the water can also make for beautiful images. Instagram+1

Use a waterproof phone case or a dry bag to keep your electronics safe from water. Ensure they are securely attached to you or your floatie. TikTok

The entire 7km stretch offers picturesque views. Keep an eye out for areas where the channel widens or offers unique perspectives of the landscape. Instagram

Drone usage is subject to local regulations. It's essential to check Transport Canada's rules and any specific restrictions in Penticton before flying a drone. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light for photography, reducing harsh shadows. However, the bright midday sun can also create vibrant, summery shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Penticton Channel Float is a fantastic family-friendly activity. The gentle current makes it suitable for children, but always ensure they are supervised and comfortable in the water. Bringing a larger raft can accommodate the whole family, and packing plenty of snacks and drinks is a must for the 2-3 hour journey. Consider bringing life jackets for younger children for added safety. Instagram+1

To make the experience even smoother, plan your transportation in advance. Parking at the end and taking a taxi back to the start is a popular tip. If renting, opt for a larger float that can fit everyone comfortably. The penticton channel tubing offers a fun and memorable way for families to enjoy the Okanagan summer. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the best tip for the Penticton Channel Float is to bring your own inflatable. This eliminates rental fees, which can add up, especially for groups. While you might still incur costs for transportation (like a taxi to the start), avoiding floatie rental fees significantly reduces the overall expense. InstagramReddit

Pack your own snacks and drinks instead of buying them at the channel. If you don't have your own float, look for rental packages that include a shuttle service to get the most value. The penticton floating experience itself is free once you have your floatie! TikTok

🎉 Groups & Stagettes

The Penticton Channel Float is a perfect setting for group outings and celebrations like stagettes. Renting a large party raft from Coyote Cruises is a popular choice, allowing everyone to stay together. Don't forget to bring a cooler with drinks and a portable speaker to create a festive atmosphere on the water. TikTokInstagram

Coordinate transportation for your group, perhaps by having one person drive back to retrieve cars or arranging a larger taxi service. The 2-3 hour float provides ample time for socializing and enjoying the Okanagan sunshine together. It's a relaxed yet fun way to celebrate. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Penticton Channel Float Experience

The Penticton Channel Float is a beloved summer tradition in the South Okanagan, offering a leisurely 7km journey from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake. It's a fantastic way to cool off and enjoy the sunshine, with the entire trip typically taking between 2 to 3 hours. Visitors can choose to bring their own inflatable or rent one from local outfitters like Coyote Cruises. The experience is often described as relaxing and memorable, perfect for families, friends, and even stagettes. Instagram+2

Many travelers highlight the convenience of rental services, which often include shuttle transportation back to your starting point. This makes the logistics of the float much simpler. However, some reviews suggest the current can be slower than anticipated, leading one visitor to compare it unfavorably to other lazy rivers. Bringing a paddle can help with navigation and fending off the shore. InstagramReddit

Beyond the float itself, the surrounding area offers beautiful views of the Okanagan landscape. It's an activity that encourages a laid-back pace, allowing participants to soak in the atmosphere, enjoy snacks and drinks, and create lasting memories. The penticton channel tubing experience is a must-do for anyone visiting Penticton during the summer months. Instagram+1

Renting vs. Bringing Your Own Floatie

Deciding whether to rent a floatie or bring your own is a key planning step for the Penticton Channel Float. Rental companies like Coyote Cruises offer a range of options, from single tubes to larger party rafts, and often include a shuttle service. This is convenient if you're traveling light or want a hassle-free experience. Prices for rentals can vary, with a 4-person raft costing around $100 and single tubes with a bus ride being about $36. TikTokInstagram

However, bringing your own inflatable is a popular choice for many, as it eliminates rental fees and ensures you have a floatie readily available, especially during busy periods when rentals might sell out. This option is ideal for those who own their own inflatables or want to save money. If you bring your own, you'll still need to consider transportation to and from the start and end points, which might involve taxi services or coordinating with friends. Instagram+1

Regardless of your choice, remember that the float can take a couple of hours, so packing essentials like sunscreen, water, and snacks is crucial. Some visitors also find a paddle useful for maneuvering, especially if the current is slow. Reddit

Transportation and Logistics

Navigating the Penticton Channel Float is made easier with a bit of planning. A common strategy shared by visitors is to park your car at the end point (near Skaha Lake) and then take a taxi or rideshare back to the starting point near Okanagan Lake. This way, you avoid waiting for a shuttle at the end of your float when you might be tired and ready to go. Reddit

Rental companies like Coyote Cruises often provide shuttle services as part of their package, which can be a convenient option if you're renting a floatie. If you're using your own vehicle, you can either have one person drive back to retrieve the car after the float, or coordinate with friends to have multiple cars parked at both ends. Instagram+1

It's also worth noting that while the channel is a popular destination, public transport options directly to the start might be limited. Checking local transit schedules or planning for taxi services in advance is advisable to ensure a smooth start to your penticton floating adventure. TikTok

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