Thompson Okanagan Region

For a unique vacation experience, houseboating is definitely a great choice. It combines the best of the scenic outdoors, comfortable indoors, and recreational activities. For a family or group of friends, houseboating in the Thompson Okanagan region of British Columbia can be a fun and affordable getaway option.

Houseboats are essentially hotel suites on water. They can be rented in a variety of lengths, with the ability to comfortably accomodate groups from 4 to 14 people. They also make interesting locations for honeymoons or family reunions.

WHERE TO GO

Sicamous, BC is the self-proclaimed Houseboating Capital of Canada, making it a good place to start. It is a small community of around 3, 000 people, and is the eastern gateway to Shuswap Lakes. Located about one hour east of Salmon Arm on the Trans Canada Highway, it's a good starting point for a houseboat vacation. Being the 'capital' of the activity, there is no shortage of companies to rent boats from.

The Shuswap Lake also connects downstream with Mara Lake. It is located north of Vernon, and is surrounded by trees, hills, and small mountains. Mara Lake is a good place for fishing as well, and trout weighing up to 18 pounds have been found here.

With sandy and pebbly beaches, Okanagan Lake is another great choice for a houseboat excursion. Located close to Kelowna, it is a part of the Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park, and some areas are only accessible by boat. Kelowna is full of amenities, and several houseboat rental companies are located here.

WHEN TO GO

The peak houseboat season extends from Canada Day long weekend to Labor Day long weekend. However, it is possible to go as early as April, and as late as October. Long weekends can be booked far in advance, so it's best to check with the rental company well ahead of time. Weekends tend to be busier than weekdays, and rates vary depending upon the time of year and when in the week the houseboat is booked.

Marina in Kelowna

WHAT TO BRING

Houseboat rental companies usually cover the basics. Fridges, stoves, pots and pans, first aid kits, fire extinguishers, navigational maps and cleaning equipment should all be on board upon arrival. There are also other items that should be available for rent, such as TVs and VCRs, A/C generators, deck chairs, and smaller fishing vessels.

Guests are responsible for their own personal items, including beach towels, medications, food, toiletries, and clothing for bad weather. It's a good idea to bring along some board games or deck of cards, just in case of inclement weather. Appropriate clothing for all types of weather conditions, such as rain gear, is also best to have along. When packing, duffel or soft bags are much easier to stow away than hard suitcases, as space can be at a premium on a houseboat. Anglers will want to bring their own gear as well.

When in doubt about anything, it's best to check with the houseboat rental company. They will provide information on what they do and don't offer to their guests.

Lake Okanagan

WHAT TO KNOW

Safety, bar none, is the most important thing. While accidents do happen, precautions can be made to ensure that they don't. For example, at no point should anyone run on the deck of the houseboat. While houseboating is intended to be fun, excessive consumption of alcohol is not permitted while driving the boat. It's important to note that in Canada, drinking and driving a boat is considered the same offense and holds the same penalties as drinking and driving a car.

As far as other policies go, they will vary on the houseboat company. Some allow pets, some do not. Some have policies on loud music, and others do not. Again, it's best to check with the company for a full list of what is and is not permitted.

Lessons on how to captain the boat are given. Two captains or more may be required, and each must be over 21 years of age.