LAC LA RONGE

Houseboat the Canadian Shield

The Great Canadian Bucket List loves floating for days on mirror-glass glacial lake, surrounded by rocky islands of Canadian shield and under observatory-like prairie skies. Even better if we can do it with the comfort of a decked out houseboat, here on Lac La Ronge inside the largest provincial park in Saskatchewan. Houseboats allow you to explore the park (with 1300 islands and 1000km of shoreline) at your own pace, and don’t worry about any special licenses; these fully equipped 10 person sleepers are as easy as driving a car. An attached boat with an outboard motor lets you explore the islands, with the houseboat itself offering all the comforts of home in absolute wilderness.

Length of Trip : 3 to 7 days

Cost : $1800 per boat for 3 days (Friday to Sunday) or 4 days (Monday to Thursday) $2800 per boat for 7 days.

Best time to go : The houseboat season begins late May to early September. July/August are the warmest months.

Wheelchair friendly : No

Family friendly : Yes

Where to eat : On the boat! Houseboats come with a fully equipped kitchen.

Official Site : Houseboat rentals are available from Eagle Point Resort.

Where to Stay : Your houseboat takes care of it all. Eagle Point also offers fully equipped cottages on the shores of Lac La Ronge if you’re planning on sticking around a little longer.

Getting There : Eagle Point is located in McGibbon Bay on Lac La Ronge, 4km N of La Ronge, on Hwy 102. La Ronge is about a four-hour drive from Saskatoon.

Note from Robin : Houseboats are particularly family-friendly: where the kids gonna go when you’re surrounded by water? Travel slow – there are rocks and reefs that could ground your floating vacation. If you travel slow, your gas will also take you a lot further. If it rains, bring cards, or board games for inside entertainment. And always make sure the boat is securely tired up when exploring on-shore.

Interested in this Bucket List item? Here’s some suggested reading:

Great Canadian Trails