Boat collision/COSAR

By Vernon Matters Staff

Close call

All passengers safe after boat collision on Okanagan Lake

Aug 28, 2025 | 9:39 AM

Emergency crews responded Wednesday evening to a collision involving two boats about 500 metres south of the Bennett Bridge on Okanagan Lake.

The call came in around 8:40 p.m., prompting rapid response from search and rescue group COSAR, Kelowna Fire Department, and local RCMP.

At the time of the collision, it was unclear whether anyone had entered the water, but officers quickly confirmed that all passengers were accounted for and safe. Fire crews removed the damaged vessels from the lake to ensure public safety, while COSAR assisted with the scene.

In an update Thursday morning RCMP said their initial investigation determined the two boats collided which resulted in one boat being lodged on top of another. Several passengers on one of the vessels sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated by BC Emergency Health Services (BCEHS).

At this stage, investigators have confirmed that impairment and weather conditions were not factors in the collision. The matter remains under investigation by the West Kelowna RCMP.

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Authorities continue to remind boaters to exercise caution on the water and follow all safety guidelines. No injuries were reported, and the area has since been cleared.