
Penticton Channel Float
Drift lazily down a 7km channel from Okanagan Lake to Skaha Lake, enjoying the Okanagan sun and scenery. A quintessential summer activity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

Penticton Channel Float
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
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.
"3 words-Relaxing, Fun & Memorable. Bring your own float so you don't have to pay."

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.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
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
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
Penticton Channel
Gather your friends for a unique group experience on a large inflatable, complete with coolers and music.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Your Float
Logistics for a Smooth Float
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
Transportation Hack :taxi:
Park at the end and cab back to the start to avoid waiting for a shuttle at the finish.
Paddle Power :rowboat:
A paddle can be helpful for fending off the shore and navigating the current.
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!
Pack Smart: Sunscreen & Snacks :sun_with_face:
The float takes 2-3 hours, so pack plenty of sunscreen, water, and snacks.
Transportation Hack :taxi:
Park at the end and cab back to the start to avoid waiting for a shuttle at the finish.
Paddle Power :rowboat:
A paddle can be helpful for fending off the shore and navigating the current.
Make it a Party :musical_note:
Rent a large raft, bring a cooler and speaker for a fun group outing.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
It's highly recommended to book your floatie rental in advance, especially during peak season or on weekends, as they can sell out quickly.
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.
Absolutely! Bringing your own floatie is a great way to save money and ensure you have a comfortable ride.
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.
🎫 ☀️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
The entire 7km stretch offers picturesque views. Keep an eye out for areas where the channel widens or offers unique perspectives of the landscape.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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!
🎉 Groups & Stagettes
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Penticton Channel Float Experience
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.
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.
Renting vs. Bringing Your Own Floatie
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.
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.
Transportation and Logistics
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.
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.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit