Just add water: Saskatoon riverboat suspends trips, wants answers on low river levels

Mike and Joan Steckhan, the former owners of the Prairie Lilly, stand on their docked boat in Saskatoon, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025. The boat, under new ownership, is again docked this year due to low river levels. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Liam Richards

SASKATOON — Saskatoon’s landmark riverboat is being left high and dry again this year -- and its new owner says the province has some explaining to do.

The Prairie Lily says on its website it was not notified when the Water Security Agency reduced flows over the weekend from Lake Diefenbaker into the South Saskatchewan River, which runs through the province’s largest city.

The company says it had expected stable flows this season but river levels have dropped rapidly, preventing it from going out on cruises.

The boat was kept ashore last year due to low water levels, and it changed hands with a new owner this year.

The Water Security Agency didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Prairie Lily says it has cancelled cruises into next week and has suspended ticket sales until June 18 until there’s enough water.

Kim Breckner, an Opposition NDP member in Saskatoon, says the province should have properly communicated with the Prairie Lily.

“When water levels are changed without proper notice, it impacts workers, tourism operators, local businesses and families who rely on Saskatchewan’s river economy,” Breckner said in a statement.

“Leadership is not about reacting after the damage is done.”

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 28, 2026.

The Canadian Press