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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Families Pick: Cruise lets riders learn on the lake

Our Weekly Pick For Families

She admits a prejudice, but Linda Mitchell thinks Lake Pend Oreille is “the most spectacular lake in the whole world.”

Mitchell co-owns Lake Pend Oreille Cruises, which takes summer passengers on daily boat rides on the lake that’s Idaho’s largest and, at 1,170 feet-plus, one of the deepest in North America. The lake is circled by mountains and forests.

Daily afternoon history cruises start Thursday, departing from Sandpoint’s City Beach.

Passengers often spot birds, including bald eagles and osprey, and sometimes deer, muskrat, elk and moose, Mitchell said.

And an on-board history talk starts with the lake’s Ice Age creation and touches on the lake’s role in Native American history, railroading, logging and submarine testing.

The cruises take place on the Shawnodese, a 43-foot, 30-passenger former San Diego ferry.

Each child passenger gets an “Honorary Captain of the Day” certificate and a turn driving the boat – or at least a turn behind the wheel.

“The captain, of course, is standing right next to them,” Mitchell said. “If they’re very small, we have it on cruise control, so they think they’re driving the boat.”

The boat’s enclosed lower deck is outfitted with couches and windows, and its operators sell snacks and soda and stock a full bar.

Also of importance to travelers with children: There’s a toilet.

“There is a head,” Mitchell said. “It would be cruel and unusual punishment to take anybody out without a head.”

Adrian Rogers

Where: Summer cruises departs from the far south end of Sandpoint’s City Beach, 100 Bridge St., next to the boat launch ramps. After driving through the City Beach gate, turn right immediately to find the Shawnodese.

When: 1:30 p.m. daily starting Thursday, returning at 3 p.m.

Tickets: $22/general, $20/seniors 60 and older, $15/children 3 to 12, free/age 2 and younger. Reservations encouraged; (208) 255-5253 or info@lakependoreillecruises.com.

Online: Go to lakependoreillecruises.com to learn about spring cruises scheduled before the summer season starts Thursday.