The owners of the Prairie Lily are calling on people using the South Saskatchewan River in Saskatoon to exercise caution.
In a Facebook post, the owners said recent incidents involving their boat and users of the river highlight the dangers for everyone as the waterway gets busier with the nice weather.
“On Thursday, we had a young man swim within 10 feet of the ship,” stated the post, which has been viewed over 143,000 times since Saturday.
“We also had a boat pulling a tube and a wake board boat drop their passengers directly in our path. We have seadoos try to swipe and splash the windows. Paddle boarders have tried to grab a ride on our side.”
WATCH BELOW: Saskatoon Fire Department assistant chief Wayne Rodger discusses safety on the South Saskatchewan River.
The issue is twofold for the captain of the Prairie Lily: limited maneuverability and the propellers on the ship.
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“There is a lot of opportunity to enjoy the river, but if everyone does not act responsibly, something tragic is going to happen,” Cpt. Mike Steckhan said in a statement.
“As a ship with limited maneuverability in a narrow channel, the collision regulations that are part of the Canada Shipping Act 2001 gives the Prairie Lily the right of way in the South Saskatchewan River,” he added.
The 24-inch propellers on the Prairie Lily also pose a danger.
They rotate between 1,000 and 1,500 RPMs and the boat is designed to direct water to them.
“I don’t want to be the guy to kill someone because they got under my bow,” Steckhan said, adding that he is always on the lookout from the wheelhouse for other water users.
“We have as much responsibility as everyone else to share the river, be courteous to other river users, and engage in safe practices.”
Prairie Lily co-owner Joan Steckhan said they aren’t the only ones concerned about discourteous behaviour and safety on the river.
“We all have similar issues,” she stated, listing the Saskatoon Canoe Club, Saskatoon Rowing Club, and water trainers, among others, before recalling an incident from last year.
“Our crew pulled a family out of the water in the dark last Canada Day after the fireworks show when someone went past them too fast.
“It was pretty scary, especially with a toddler in that canoe!”
Prairie Lily said with respect and courtesy, everyone will be able to use and enjoy the river without compromising safety – or lives.
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