Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon offer a unique way to explore the city’s scenic waterways. The Prairie Lily Riverboat provides various cruise options, including sightseeing, dinner, and themed tours. Operating from May to September, these tours showcase Saskatoon’s natural beauty, history, and culture. With different schedules and pricing options, visitors can choose tours that best suit their interests and budgets. The Prairie Lily’s accessible facilities ensure that most guests can enjoy the river experience.
What Are the Schedules for Saskatchewan River Boat Tours in Saskatoon?
The Prairie Lily Riverboat, the primary operator of Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon, offers a variety of schedules throughout the season:
May Schedule
- Weekends only
- Saturday and Sunday: 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm
June Schedule
- Tuesday to Friday: 4:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm
July and August Schedule
- Tuesday to Sunday: 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm
September 1-15 Schedule
- Wednesday to Friday: 4:00 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 2:00 pm and 4:00 pm
What Special Cruises Are Available on Saskatchewan River Boat Tours?
In addition to regular sightseeing cruises, the Prairie Lily offers several special cruise options:
- Dinner Cruises
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Available Tuesday through Sunday at 6:30 pm
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Brunch Cruises
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Available Saturday and Sunday at 11:30 am
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Lunch Cruises
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Available Friday at 11:45 am
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Wine Tastings
- Available Wednesday evenings in July and August at 7:00 pm
These special cruises provide unique experiences combining dining or wine tasting with scenic river views.
What Are the Prices for Saskatchewan River Boat Tours in Saskatoon?
The pricing for Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon varies depending on the type of cruise and the age of the passenger. Here’s a breakdown of the prices for sightseeing cruises:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | $29.00 |
| Senior (65+) | $27.00 |
| Youth (12-17 years) | $27.00 |
| Child (2-11 years) | $20.00 |
| Infants (under 2) | Free |
Note: These prices are for sightseeing cruises only and do not include GST and PST. Prices for special cruises like dinner, brunch, lunch, and wine tastings vary and are available on the Prairie Lily website.
What Types of Guided Boat Tours Are Available on the Saskatchewan River?
Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon offer a variety of guided experiences:
- Sightseeing Cruises
- Duration: One hour
- Maximum Capacity: 119 passengers (52 on the upper deck at any one time)
- Features: General sightseeing with commentary on Saskatoon’s sights and history
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Amenities: Beverage service, washrooms, climate-controlled main deck cabins
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Special Themed Cruises
- Saskatooning Sundays: Feature special guests sharing their passion for Saskatoon
- Historical Cruises: Include stories such as the 1908 shipwreck of the SS City of Medicine Hat
- Nature Cruises: Focus on the natural beauty of the riverside
These diverse options allow visitors to choose a tour that aligns with their interests, whether it’s learning about local history, enjoying nature, or simply taking in the scenic views.
How Accessible Are Saskatchewan River Boat Tours for Individuals with Disabilities?
Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon strive to be accessible to all visitors:
- Location: The Prairie Lily dock is located at the edge of the river adjacent to the Nutrien Wonderhub, across from Nutrien Playland at Kinsmen Park, on Spadina Crescent.
- Parking: Facilities are available near the dock for easy access.
- Ship Amenities:
- Climate-controlled main deck cabins
- Two washrooms
- Accessible upper deck (limited to 52 passengers at a time)
- Deck Rotation: The ship operates a system where guests are switched between the upper and lower decks during the cruise to ensure everyone has a chance to enjoy both levels.
While efforts are made to accommodate all guests, it’s recommended to contact the tour operator in advance for specific accessibility needs.
What Should You Know Before Booking a Saskatchewan River Boat Tour in Saskatoon?
Before booking a Saskatchewan River boat tour in Saskatoon, consider the following:
- Seasonal Operation: Tours typically run from May to mid-September.
- Advance Booking: Recommended, especially for special cruises or peak season dates.
- Weather Conditions: Tours may be affected by extreme weather, so check the forecast.
- Dress Code: Casual attire is suitable for most cruises, but dinner cruises may require smart casual.
- Dietary Restrictions: For cruises with meals, inform the operator of any dietary needs in advance.
- Photography: Bring a camera to capture the scenic views along the river.
- Duration: Most sightseeing cruises last about an hour, while special cruises may be longer.
- Arrival Time: It’s recommended to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure time.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience on your Saskatchewan River boat tour in Saskatoon.
How Do Saskatchewan River Boat Tours Contribute to Saskatoon’s Tourism?
Saskatchewan River boat tours play a significant role in Saskatoon’s tourism industry:
- Unique Perspective: Offer visitors a distinctive view of the city from the water.
- Historical Insights: Provide educational content about Saskatoon’s history and development.
- Natural Showcase: Highlight the beauty of the South Saskatchewan River and its ecosystem.
- Cultural Experience: Special themed cruises offer insights into local culture and traditions.
- Economic Impact: Attract tourists, creating revenue for local businesses and the tourism sector.
- Year-round Appeal: While tours operate seasonally, they contribute to Saskatoon’s image as a year-round destination.
- Local Pride: Encourage locals to explore and appreciate their city from a new angle.
These tours not only entertain visitors but also educate them about Saskatoon’s heritage and natural beauty, making them an integral part of the city’s tourism offerings.
Saskatchewan River boat tours in Saskatoon offer a blend of scenic beauty, historical insights, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a local looking for a new perspective on your city or a visitor seeking to explore Saskatoon’s waterways, these tours provide a unique and memorable experience. From sightseeing cruises to special themed events, there’s something for everyone on the waters of the South Saskatchewan River.
References:
1. https://www.discoversaskatoon.com/listing/prairie-lily-riverboat-the/552
2. https://theprairielily.com/wp/sightseeing-from-the-prairie-lily/
3. https://tourismsaskatchewan.com/listings/239/prairie-river-cruises
