Winnipeg’s Water Bus back on Assiniboine River after difficult start to season
Posted August 5, 2026 4:35 pm.
Last Updated August 5, 2026 6:44 pm.
Winnipeg’s Water Bus was back to cruising along the Assiniboine River after a somewhat stormy start to the season, with unstable water levels and strong currents.
The co-owner of Winnipeg Waterways says changing water levels, debris and strong currents delayed the start of the season until conditions became safe and predictable.
“It feels amazing to finally get the Water Bus on the water,” said Will Belford. “It is always the date we are searching for, hoping it comes soon, but we are always at the mercy of Mother Nature.
“But now that the water is cooperating, we are so happy to have the Water Bus back.”
The crew was able to bring the service back for the August long weekend, with Belford calling it a big success.
“The first day was fantastic,” he said. “All the die-hards came out.”
Winnipeg Waterways launched in 2024 and after a successful season it upgraded to a bigger boat to meet demand.
Belford says the goal for the coming years is to expand the service further along Assiniboine and Red River.
“I want to see multiple boats out on the water,” he said.
For some in Winnipeg, the Water Bus is always a summer destination.
Austyn Atchison says he used to take the Water Bus as a kid.
“It’s a cool, unique Winnipeg thing to have, this form of transportation on the river. Not every city has the ability to do that,” Atchison said.
Pennie Fernandez, who was visiting the capital city, agreed it’s a Winnipeg-unique sightseeing tour.
“It was great,” she said. “We had such a wonderful time and we saw a lot of sights in the city.”
