The Prairie Lily Cruises

The Prairie Lily

Cruises

High Sand Levels and Low Water Levels in the South Saskatchewan River Stop The Prairie Lily from Cruising

Dear Friends,

It’s with heavy hearts that we have to let you know the water level in the South Saskatchewan River is so low that The Prairie Lily will have to cancel its final cruising season if no action is taken.

Typically, there is adequate water flow downstream from Lake Diefenbaker to keep the river navigable. Unfortunately, adequate water flow is no longer the case, and this has resulted in an accumulation of sand in the river. We would be able to cruise as scheduled if the Water Security Agency (WSA), the provincial government’s agency responsible for the province’s water resource management and controls the flow of water from the Gardiner Dam, would release enough water from Lake Diefenbaker to allow safe operation on the river.

While Lake Diefenbaker needs to retain water for power production and irrigation, the current lake water levels are above the historic average high and will rise next month from the expected spring run off from the above average snowpack from the Rocky Mountains. Right now, the surplus water is just being held.

Based on his knowledge of the river and historical flows, Captain Mike projects Saskatoon would need a flow of 900cms for 72 hours or 400cms for a number of days to mitigate the problem. The WSA has not released any substantial water flows since 2020, causing this accumulation of sand in the river. The current WSA 10-day Provincial Forecast shows flows will be maintained at the lowest level of 60cms.

We, along with other local businesses operating in and around the river, knew as early as last summer there was a problem with water levels in the river and we welcomed WSA CEO and their VP of Science and Licensing on a personal cruise with Captain Mike in the wheelhouse last July so they could see firsthand the concern before it became an issue. No action has been taken. We contacted them last week after doing our annual pre-cruising river survey to advise the river was not navigable. We were informed on Friday that they will not release any additional water from Gardiner Dam.

We were all set and excited to welcome you for our final season of cruises starting this Saturday, May 10. We regret dearly that we will have to cancel upcoming cruises until the WSA releases water flow. As we cancel cruises, we will be contacting guests who have purchased tickets to either fully refund their tickets or, hoping we can sail at some point this summer, move their cruise to a future date.

But this is not just about us. We are just one of many river users in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan from the dam to Cumberland House and local festivals and events that will not be able to carry their plans forward into the summer. Without mitigation, even low draft, non-powered users like canoes and kayaks will not be able enjoy the river in future years.

We look forward to welcoming you.

It’s with mixed feelings and immense gratitude that we announce our 2025 season will be our last. We can’t put into words how much we appreciate all your support, kindness, and encouragement over the past dozen years. We’ve truly had a great ride, rather cruise, and it’s because of all of you, our crews over the years, and our beloved city, Saskatoon. From the bottom of our hearts – thank you.

Anyone want to buy a riverboat?

The Prairie Lily actually does not have to retire. It’s really us – Captain Mike and Joan – who are retiring.

We hope a new owner will come forward and keep The Lily on the river. Curious? You can find more information here.

In the meantime, we’ll keep you posted about our final season. We look forward to welcoming you aboard The Prairie Lily, one last time.