VSAR Rescue Boat Legacy Returns to Okanagan Lake for 2026 Boating Season
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
April 20 2026 - Vernon Search and Rescue’s (VSAR) primary rescue vessel, Legacy, is back in the water and moored at the Vernon Yacht Club, ready for the 2026 summer boating season on Okanagan Lake.
After several days of intensive maintenance, the volunteer team spent time thoroughly cleaning and repainting the hull to protect the boat and ensure it remains highly visible.
Volunteers dedicated a full Sunday to the cleaning and painting effort.
The team launched Legacy recently for its inaugural post-maintenance ride, confirming that all systems are operational and ready for service.
Legacy serves as VSAR’s main rescue vessel on Okanagan Lake. The bright orange boat, easily spotted thanks to its flashing blue strobe lights.
The purpose-built search and rescue craft is equipped with advanced tools including:
Radar for navigation and locating vessels in poor visibility
FLIR (Forward-Looking Infrared) thermal imaging camera, which helps spot people in the water or on shore during darkness or low-light conditions
Powerful searchlights
Towing and life-saving equipment for recovering swimmers, assisting distressed boaters, and handling overturned or sinking vessels
The craft also features a heated cabin and upper flying bridge for better visibility during operations.
As a jet-drive boat, it is well-suited for the demands of lake rescues in the North Okanagan.
VSAR is ready to respond 24/7 to water-related emergencies on Okanagan Lake and surrounding areas.
Boaters and lakeside residents can expect to see the distinctive orange vessel out on the water for training and real calls throughout the season.
A VSAR Facebook post thanked the Vernon Yacht Club for providing secure moorage and to Graphic Enterprises that replaced many of the worn decals.
VSAR Rescue Boat Legacy Returns to Okanagan Lake for 2026 Boating Season
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