Kelowna Boat Hire Waves and Wines Boat Tour

Thinking about a day out on Okanagan Lake that combines a dash of adventure, a touch of luxury, and some seriously good wine? The Waves and Wines private boat tour in Kelowna might be just what you’re after. This 5-hour experience is designed for small groups (up to 8 people), offering enough flexibility to set your own pace and soak in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What really catches the eye with this tour? First, the chance to visit North America’s only beach winery—a pretty unique setting for lunch or dinner. Second, the variety of water activities, from swimming in quiet coves to tubing and even cliff diving if you’re feeling brave. But, as with anything, there are some things to keep in mind before booking. The price is on the higher end, and meals at the winery aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that separately.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who love a mix of relaxation and thrill, enjoy wine and good company, and are looking for a flexible, private experience on the water. It’s a great choice if you want a personalized day out that combines scenic beauty with some fun water-based activities.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience perfect for small groups wanting intimate time on the lake
• Includes a stop at a beach winery for lunch or dinner paired with award-winning wines
• Water activities like swimming, tubing, and cliff diving enhance the fun
• All necessary amenities such as life jackets and bottled water are included
• Flexible schedule and itinerary let you enjoy the lake at your own pace
• Cost of $762.77 per group offers a tailored, luxury experience, but meals are extra

What to Expect from the Kelowna Waves and Wines Tour

This tour is essentially a well-rounded lakeside adventure that balances luxury wine tasting with the thrills of being on the water. It’s based at a meeting point in Peachland, BC, with the tour running between late summer and early fall, from August to October. The price covers the boat, fuel, fees, and a dedicated captain—all you need to do is enjoy.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Frind Estate Winery
The day kicks off at the beach winery, which is pretty special in itself. It’s North America’s only beach winery, meaning you’ll be sipping wines with your toes in the sand. The tour includes about an hour here, giving you time to relax and enjoy either lunch or dinner—though the actual food isn’t included, so plan to bring or purchase your meal. The winery’s setting is casual yet beautiful, perfect for a leisurely start or an afternoon unwind. Several reviews highlight how memorable this stop is, with one traveler noting, “The views and wines were fantastic—such a unique experience.”

Stop 2: Okanagan Mountain Provincial Park
Next, it’s time for some water play. The boat docks at a secluded cove where you can swim in calm, private waters—an ideal way to cool off and unwind. The duration at this stop is about an hour. Since it’s free to access, it’s a good spot for some quiet reflection or snapping photos of the stunning surroundings. Expect crystal-clear waters and peaceful scenery that invite you to relax or take a quick dip.

Stop 3: Okanagan Lake Activities
This is the heart of the tour—about two hours of boating, swimming, and tubing. If you’re into water sports, you’ll appreciate the chance to pull a tube behind the boat and get a thrill or two. The water here is inviting, and the setting makes for some great photo ops, whether you’re floating or just enjoying the view. The vibe is laid-back but lively, making it perfect for groups wanting a mix of fun and relaxation.

Stop 4: Cliff Diving (Optional)
For the adventurous, cliff diving is available upon request—though it’s not part of the standard itinerary. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, and it’s worth noting that this is more suitable for confident swimmers and those comfortable with heights. The tour staff are accommodating if you’re interested, but it’s best to communicate your interest beforehand.

Additional Inclusions and Considerations

Onboard, you’ll find bottled water, life jackets, and all fuel and landing fees covered. These amenities mean you can focus on enjoying your time without worrying about extra costs or safety gear. However, meals at the winery are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own or purchase food there.

Breaking Down the Costs and Value

At roughly $762.77 for up to 8 people, the per-person cost is around $95 depending on your group size. That might seem steep at first glance, but considering the exclusive nature of the experience—including a private boat, a customized itinerary, and the unique setting of a beach winery—the value starts to make sense. You’re paying for a tailored, private outing where you control the pace and activities, and that’s not something you find everywhere.

What We Loved About the Experience

The stunning lakeside scenery is a highlight—clear waters, lush surroundings, and serene coves make every water stop special. The beach winery is genuinely unique, offering a relaxed environment with excellent wine choices and beautiful views. The option to swim in secluded spots and try tubing or cliff diving adds an exciting, playful element that elevates the day beyond just a boat ride.

The boat’s captain, certified and experienced, ensures safety and comfort, allowing everyone to kick back and enjoy. The included photography is a thoughtful touch, helping you capture your favorite moments without needing to break out your camera constantly.

A Slight Drawback

The main consideration is the price—it’s a premium experience, and meals are extra. If you’re on a tight budget or expecting a fully catered day, this might not be the best fit. Also, since this is a private tour, the flexibility is great, but expect to make your own plans for food and additional activities beyond what’s included.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves wines, lakes, and a mix of relaxation and adventure, this tour suits you well. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups wanting an exclusive, personalized experience. It’s also ideal if you want to combine good food and drinks with fun water activities in a scenic setting.

Travelers looking for a luxury, all-in-one day with a bit of everything will find this tour ticks plenty of boxes. However, those seeking a budget-friendly option or a fully guided, all-inclusive experience might prefer other tours or day trips.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour is private and flexible, the water activities like tubing and cliff diving are more suitable for older children and confident swimmers. It’s best to consider safety and comfort for younger kids.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, and perhaps a hat. Since meals aren’t included, pack snacks or plan to purchase food at the winery. A camera or phone for photos is a good idea, and don’t forget your sunglasses.

Are drinks other than wine available onboard?
The tour includes bottled water, but additional drinks aren’t specified. You might want to bring your own beverages if you prefer something other than wine or water.

How long is each stop?
The winery stop is about an hour, swimming and cove stops are each around an hour, and the tubing/boat time is roughly two hours. The optional cliff diving is about 30 minutes.

What if I want to do cliff diving?
Cliff diving is available upon request. It’s best to notify the tour provider beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your interest.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Final Thoughts

The Kelowna Waves and Wines tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, water fun, and wine tasting—crafted for small groups looking for a personalized adventure. The setting of a beach winery paired with the freedom to set your own pace on the water makes for a memorable day. It’s an experience that combines the best of lakeside leisure and luxury, with just enough thrill to keep things lively.

While it is on the pricier side, the exclusivity, stunning surroundings, and variety of activities justify the cost for those craving a premium, customizable day on Okanagan Lake. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, on a romantic getaway, or just want to indulge in a luxe lakeside escape, this tour provides a flexible, picturesque, and fun-filled experience.

If you enjoy wine, water adventures, and beautiful scenery, and don’t mind splurging a bit for privacy and convenience, this tour could be just what you need for your Kelowna visit. Just remember to plan ahead for meals and communicate your interests, especially if cliff diving or other specific activities appeal to you. Happy sailing and sipping!