SS Sicamous Paddle Steamer is the largest steel-hulled sternwheeler that remains in Canada and is a good reminder of the history of lake transportation in the Okanagan Valley. Before roads, there were paddle wheel boats transporting people from one community to another in the Okanagan Valley via lakes.
The S.S. Sicamous was the last and the biggest ever passenger boat built by the CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway). It was launched in 1914. The paddle wheel boats were built to service the communities of the Okanagan Valley. Her first voyage was in May 1914. During her trips, the 228-foot long steamer used around 17 tons of coal and steamed through the water at a speed of 17 knots. She was, during her time, considered a luxury liner, which transported passengers, mail and freight. Her last trip was on October 11th, 1936.
The 228 foot passenger boat transported trappers, miners and forestry workers from lake community to lake community. During lake travel the rich would occupy one of the 40 staterooms on board the SS Sicamous.
Later came the alternative routes for travel in the Okanagan Valley like paved roads and railroads. The roads and trains was a direct result of the beaching the S.S. Sicamous in 1951. Today the passenger boat is a tourist attraction for all to remember.