The Edmonton Riverboat has returned, fully loaded with passengers, to the North Saskatchewan River.
The iconic ship, formally the Edmoton Queen, sailed twice on Saturday and twice on Sunday during its first return weekend. A city landmark since 1995, the ship spent the last two years on land making repairs after the hull was damaged by underground pillars in 2020.
For a rider for the first time, the return of the Riverboat was a relief.
“It’s kind of a to-do list for me to go on the river boat,” Patricia Lynch-Staunton said.
“It’s very exciting to be back. The North Saskatchewan River is beautiful and what a fabulous opportunity to be able to see and feel it and just navigate it. “
Lynch-Staunton and her family crossed the river Sunday with the boat recently repaired and refurbished. Since it became newly owned in 2016, the ship has undergone a million dollars in repairs and renovations.
Lynch-Staunton said the recent test of the boats is a reminder to take advantage of adventure opportunities right here in the city.
“I think it’s important in Edmonton to take advantage of the many things we have. It’s easy to take them for granted, and I didn’t want to do it with the Riverboat. “