Drifting and Sightseeing
The stretch of river between Castlegar and Waneta B.C is still wild and free, just like it was back in the 1800's. It is here that the likes of David Thompson, the Voyagers and Canada's first nation peoples enjoyed the bountiful wealth of the mighty Columbia River. Now it is your turn experience its rich history as you slip on down this beautiful transportation route where sternwheelers once plied. Our fleet is made up of drift boats and motorized raft style boats.
Scotties Marina to the Old Town Site of Waterloo
This is truly a unique expedition. You will be motor rafted through an old rail tunnel, then it is off to be lowered down to the Columbia River via. the Arrow Dam Navigational lock. You will then pass by an old Canadian Pacific Railway bridge that was designed to swing open to let the mighty sternwheelers pass under, with the trip ending at the orchard rich town site of Waterloo. This trip is offered from June through September.
$80.00 each. Minimum 4 people.
Trip duration approximately 4 hours.
Sproats Landing to Trail (The Home of Champions)
This is a beautiful float that really puts into perspective how big the river is. This float will allow you to see all types of wildlife including beavers, otters, eagle's, herons, bears, deer, and goats. You will also float by an old draft cable ferry site that was used to transport fruit across the river.
$90.00 each. Minimum 4 people.
Trip duration approximately 6 hours.
Scenery to Winery
Float from Trail to Wanenta on this mid day trip, offered in the months of June through September. Departing around 9:30 AM to approximately 12:00 noon. A great way to sample the West Kootenays.
$60.00 each. Minimum 4 people.
Trip duration approximately 2.5 hours.
Twilight Drift Trips (dusk to midnight)
Experience the Columbia River at night. Drift along in the moonlight, no flashlight or other artificial light required, the moon is all that is needed. The power of gravity will pull you through the currents to your first destination where you will be treated to a gourmet snack with complementary wine from the West Kootenay's only vineyard, Columbia Gardens Winery. Seeing the Columbia from this perspective will leave you with long lasting memories, especially the jumping sturgeon of Castlegar that can be heard splashing down while you drift through the eddies of the Columbia. If you're a local, this is truly a mini vacation right in your back yard. All local transportation is provided. Book now as these trips go fast.
$280.00. July and August only.