Private Boat Tour with Lunch Stop

An Honest Look at the Private Boat Tour with Lunch Stop in Kelowna & Okanagan Valley

If you’re dreaming of a leisurely day on Lake Okanagan, this private boat experience might catch your eye. Offered by Okanagan Life Private Boat Charters, it promises a full six hours of cruising, wine tasting, and time to unwind—whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or both. While I haven’t personally hopped aboard, the reviews and detailed descriptions suggest this tour can be a real treat for those who love beautiful scenery paired with good wine and relaxed downtime.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines the serenity of private lake cruising with the opportunity to indulge in local wines and enjoy lunch at a vineyard. It’s a pretty flexible experience, giving you the chance to lounge, swim, or play your favorite tunes on the boat. That said, it’s not the cheapest outing in Kelowna, so it’s worth considering whether the price aligns with what you’re after. This tour suits those who want an upscale, relaxed day on the water without the hassle of organizing it themselves.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is entirely private and limited to your group, which makes it more intimate but also more costly. If you’re seeking a social group experience, this might not be the best fit. Still, for a personalized outing with close friends or family, it looks like a memorable way to enjoy Lake Okanagan’s beauty.

Key Points

• Private Experience: Exclusive use of a luxurious pontoon boat means no crowded groups or noisy tour buses.
• Relaxed Pace: You control the day—lounge, swim, or enjoy the scenery at your leisure.
• Wine & Lunch: Includes a wine tasting at a scenic winery, with optional time to buy or enjoy a picnic lunch.
• Beautiful Views: Discover private bays, stunning shorelines, and lakeside homes often hidden from public view.
• Flexible & Customizable: The tour allows bringing your own lunch and snacks, making it tailored to your tastes.
• Great for Groups: Suitable for friends or family of all ages who want a laid-back day on the water.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Off on Lake Okanagan

The tour kicks off at 10:00 am, giving you plenty of time to settle in and get ready for a full day. The boat itself is a 22ft Aqua Patio Pontoon, which is spacious enough for up to 11 people, ensuring everyone has room to sit back and relax. The captain, who is both friendly and knowledgeable, takes care of the navigation, leaving you free to focus on enjoying the scenery.

As the boat glides across the lake, you’ll quickly notice how peaceful it feels to have your own private vessel. Your captain will point out notable sights—luxury homes, private bays, and scenic shoreline—adding context to the views that many would miss on a standard tour. For music lovers, bringing along your favorite playlist is encouraged, turning the cruise into a personalized floating lounge.

The Scenic Cruise & Private Bays

One of the standout features here is the chance to explore private bays and hidden spots around Lake Okanagan. Unlike larger, group-oriented tours, this experience allows you to truly enjoy these peaceful corners at your own pace. It’s easy to see why this appeals to those seeking tranquility and exclusivity. Plus, if you’re into swimming or lounging, the boat’s cool water and shaded areas make it easy to cool off or relax in style.

Wine Tasting at a Lakeside Winery

After about four hours on the water, the tour makes a stop at a local winery overlooking the lake. This isn’t just a quick tasting—your included fees cover a proper wine tasting session, giving you the chance to sample regional wines carefully selected for their quality and character. The winery’s scenic setting makes for fantastic photo opportunities, especially if you’re into capturing landscapes or enjoying a glass with a view.

Guests have raved about the wine, with one reviewer noting, “Great wine. Would book again and again.” This highlights that the wine selections are a highlight of the day. You also get the freedom to purchase additional bottles if you wish, making it easy to take some of the local flavors home.

Lunch & Flexibility

While the tour doesn’t include a provided meal, you’re invited to bring your own picnic lunch to enjoy at the winery or during the cruise. It’s a flexible setup that lets you eat what you want, whether it’s sandwiches, snacks, or something more elaborate. This is a good option for those who prefer to control their meal choices or have specific dietary needs.

The Final Cruise & Relaxation

Post-wine tasting, the boat heads back out for another couple of hours on the lake. This is when you can choose to swim, lounge on the deck, or simply soak in the scenery. Many people find this part of the day the most relaxing—cruising in the late afternoon offers softer light and a quieter atmosphere.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For the price of approximately $1,629 per group, you get quite a bit: the private boat, wine tasting fees, a friendly captain, fuel, bottled water, and pool noodles for lounging or play. The main additional expense is lunch, which you bring yourself, and gratuities—around 15-18% is typical for excellent service.

This setup emphasizes a tailored experience rather than a packaged meal, which can be great if you enjoy picnics or want to keep things simple. Keep in mind that gratuity is not included, so if you love your captain, tipping is appreciated.

Weather & Cancellation Policies

Weather can always be a wild card, especially in outdoor water activities. If the weather turns sour, the tour might be canceled, but they promise either a different date or a full refund if that happens. Cancellation is free if done 24 hours in advance, which adds a layer of flexibility if your plans change.

Authentic Traveler Insights

One reviewer summed it up nicely: “Loved it! Had such a fun time and everything was well organized. Great wine.” That kind of feedback suggests the experience is smooth and enjoyable, with a focus on quality and comfort. The fact that the tour is private means your group can relax without feeling rushed or crowded, which is a huge plus.

Another point to note is how suited this is for a range of travelers—it’s not overly fancy, but it offers a touch of luxury and personalized attention. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a calm day on the water, it ticks many boxes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, groups of friends, or families looking for a leisurely, upscale day on Lake Okanagan. It’s great if you want privacy, personalized service, and a chance to unwind without the crowds. If you’re into wine, scenic views, and having the freedom to set your own pace, this tour could be a highlight of your Kelowna trip.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, or prefer organized group tours with set itineraries and more structured activities, this might feel a bit pricey. Also, those wanting a more active or adventurous outing might prefer other options, as this tour emphasizes relaxation and scenic enjoyment.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the experience is relaxing and family-friendly, it’s best suited for older children who can comfortably enjoy time on the boat and in the water. The vessel is equipped with life jackets and pool noodles, making it safe for kids.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring your own picnic lunch, as the tour does not include food. This gives you the flexibility to cater to dietary preferences and pack your favorite snacks.

Can I bring alcohol or additional beverages?
The tour provides chilled bottled water and a cooler for personal snacks and beverages, so you’re welcome to bring your own drinks. Alcohol is not explicitly restricted, but it’s best to consume responsibly and follow any local guidelines.

What is the group size?
The boat holds up to 11 people, making it an intimate experience. It’s perfect for small groups wanting privacy rather than large, crowded tours.

What is included in the price?
You get the private pontoon boat, the services of a friendly captain, fuel, wine tasting fees, and bottled water and pool noodles. Gratuity for the captain is extra.

How long is the cruise?
The total tour runs about 6 hours, with approximately 4 hours spent on the water and some time at the winery.

Is the tour weather dependent?
Yes, bad weather may lead to cancellation, but they will offer a different date or a full refund if that occurs.

Can I customize the experience?
Since it’s a private tour, you have the flexibility to decide how to spend your time on the lake, whether that’s swimming, lounging, or sightseeing.

How do I book this tour?
Reservations are done through Viator, and confirmation is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet laid-back day on Lake Okanagan, this private boat tour fits the bill. It’s a good pick for those who want to enjoy the scenery in peace, sample some excellent local wines, and have the freedom to tailor their day. The private setting means fewer crowds and more control over your experience—perfect if you’d rather escape the busy tour groups but still want a guided, well-organized outing.

The combination of scenic cruising, wine tasting, and relaxing on the water makes this a well-rounded option. Yes, it’s on the pricier side, but many travelers seem to find the value in the privacy, comfort, and personalized touches. Just remember to bring your lunch, plan for the weather, and tip your captain if you enjoy the service.

This tour could be a highlight of your time in Kelowna—ideal for those who want a special, scenic, and stress-free day with loved ones in the stunning surroundings of the Okanagan.