The SS Naramata is a vital piece of Okanagan history—and we're working hard to ensure she has a strong, stable future. Since 2019, we’ve been incredibly grateful for the generous support we’ve received from donors, sponsors, and community members. Your contributions have already helped us complete critical early-stage work, including environmental assessments, historical research, engineering consultations, and feasibility studies.

Now, we’re entering the next phrase's of the project. From 2024 onward, every step we take is focused on preparing to raise the Naramata and place her on a permanent cradle. We are actively consulting with structural and marine engineers to determine the safest and most sustainable method for stabilizing and preserving the vessel.

This is a major undertaking, and our goal is to have a detailed and actionable plan finalized by 2026, with work continuing into 2027. While some contractors have kindly offered in-kind support or sponsorship, others face rising costs of materials and travel—making additional financial support essential.

To make this vision a reality, we are launching a dedicated fundraising campaign. Donations made toward the SS Naramata will go directly toward the next steps of the project, helping us work with certified professionals and cover the significant costs ahead.

Your support—whether through a financial contribution or by volunteering your time—makes a real difference. Join us in protecting this iconic vessel for generations to come.

Thank you for being part of this historic journey.

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A Rare Piece of Canadian Marine History

Built in 1914, the S.S. Naramata is one of the last surviving inland steam tugs in Canada. For decades, she hauled fruit, rail cars, and freight along Okanagan Lake, supporting local communities and the region’s agricultural boom. Her service continued for more than 50 years before she was retired and brought to the Penticton waterfront.

Unfortunately, after a hull leak many years ago, the tug was moved into an emergency trench to prevent her from sinking — and she has remained partially buried ever since.Today, preserving the Naramata is more important than ever. Earlier this year, the historic James Whalen tug in Ontario was dismantled, leaving only a small number of inland tugs still inexistence in Canada.

Saving the Naramata means protecting a unique piece of Okanagan and Canadian history.

A Clever, Safe, and Innovative Lift Plan

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is how the S.S. Naramata will be raised. Instead of using cranes — which are risky, expensive, and potentially damaging — we will be using a water-lift system that takes advantage of the tug’s own buoyancy.

Surprisingly, the Naramata still floats every spring when lake levels rise, indicating that her hull remains in stronger condition than anyone expected.

Here’s how the lift will work:

1. Build the concrete cradle

A custom-built, reinforced concrete cradle will be constructed beside the tug. This will act as herlong-term support.

2. Create a temporary berm

A thick, secure earth berm will be built around the Naramata, forming a contained basin.

3. Pump the basin full of water

Once the berm is sealed, water will be pumped in until the tug floats naturally.

4. Guide the floating tug into position

As she floats, the tug will be gently manoeuvred sideways over the concrete cradle.

5. Pump out the water

As the basin drains, the tug will slowly and safely settle into the cradle—guided entirely by buoyancy and gravity.

This method is safer, far more cost-effective, and significantly less stressful on the historic hull than any crane-based approach.

“We’re letting the tug do what she was designed to do — float,” says O’Neill, Director and Tug Chair. “It’s simple, elegant, and by far the safest option.”

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Project Timeline

2025–2026: Final engineering, permitting, environmental approvals, and construction preparation

March 2026: Target lift date (aligned with lowest annual lake levels)

2026–2027: Final placement, cradle finishing, and site interpretation work

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Please Note: The amount displayed on our fundraising goal tracker includes all donations received to date, both online and offline. This total reflects the generous support of everyone who has contributed to the SS Naramata project, regardless of the platform used. The Heritage legacy fund award for $50,000. is also included in the total here. 

If you made a donation through an alternative method (e.g., in person, by mail, or through a different donation platform), your contribution is included in the tracker total.

From all of us at the S.S. Sicamous Marine Heritage Society: thank you for helping us preserve the stories that built the Okanagan.