Nestled on the shores of Okanagan Lake in Penticton, the SS Sicamous is a captivating piece of history that transports visitors back to the golden age of steam travel. As the largest surviving sternwheeler in British Columbia, this vessel has a storied past and now serves as a museum, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich transportation history. Whether you’re a history buff, a maritime enthusiast or a curious traveler, the SS Sicamous is a must-visit attraction in the Okanagan Valley.
Photo by iStockA Journey Through Time: The History Of The SS Sicamous
Commissioned by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR), the SS Sicamous was launched on May 19, 1914. The vessel was designed to provide both passenger and freight service along Okanagan Lake, connecting communities along the waterway during a time when roads and rail lines were limited.
Built in Vancouver and transported in pieces to Penticton for assembly, the SS Sicamous was a marvel of its time. At 228 feet long, the ship was luxurious, featuring elegant staterooms, a dining saloon, a ladies’ parlour and even a grand staircase. It could accommodate up to 250 passengers and carried vital cargo, including mail, food and other supplies to lakeside settlements.
The ship operated as part of a fleet of sternwheelers, which included the SS Okanagan, SS Aberdeen and SS Naramata. These vessels played a crucial role in the region’s development, connecting remote communities and supporting industries such as fruit farming and mining.
However, with the expansion of highways and railways, the need for sternwheelers declined. The SS Sicamous made its final commercial voyage in 1935 before being decommissioned. Over the following decades, the vessel faced uncertain prospects but was ultimately saved from deterioration by local preservation efforts.
A New Purpose: The SS Sicamous Museum & Heritage Park
Today, the SS Sicamous has been beautifully restored and operates as a museum and heritage site in Penticton. Moored at SS Sicamous Heritage Park, the ship offers a fascinating look at Okanagan Lake’s early transportation history.
The museum features meticulously restored rooms, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of early 20th-century steamship travel. Exhibits include the grand saloon, with its polished wood paneling and vintage furnishings; the wheelhouse, where visitors can see the original ship’s wheel and get a captain’s view of the lake; the engine room, showcasing the ship’s impressive mechanics and power source; and historical displays, including photographs, artifacts and stories from passengers and crew members who once traveled on the vessel.
Additionally, the museum is home to other historic artifacts, including the SS Naramata, a smaller tugboat that was once part of the fleet.
Photo by iStockVisiting The SS Sicamous
The SS Sicamous Museum and Heritage Park is open to visitors from spring through fall, with hours varying by season. The site is family-friendly, offering an engaging experience for all ages.
What To Expect During Your Visit
Self-guided and guided tours: Explore the ship at your own pace or join a guided tour to gain deeper insights into its history.
Special events and weddings: The SS Sicamous is a popular venue for weddings, photo shoots and special events, thanks to its picturesque setting and unique charm.
Gift shop: Browse a collection of souvenirs, books and maritime-themed gifts to commemorate your visit.
Visitors can also enjoy the scenic surroundings of Okanagan Lake, with nearby beaches, parks and walking paths, making it an ideal spot for a day of exploration.
The SS Sicamous stands as a proud symbol of British Columbia’s maritime past, offering a fascinating journey through history. Its transformation from a working sternwheeler to a beautifully preserved museum ensures that future generations can appreciate its significance. Whether you’re visiting Penticton for its wineries, outdoor activities or rich history, a stop at the SS Sicamous Museum and Heritage Park is an experience not to be missed.
Research for this article was done using OpenAI.
