SMOOTH MOVES: Dancing on the deck is part of the unique experience visitors can have at the S.S. Moyie National History Site.-photo by Doug Pyper

Known as a National Historical Site, the S.S. Moyie is the world's oldest intact passenger sternwheeler. The breathtaking vessel is permanently docked on Front Street in Kaslo. Fully restored by the Kootenay Lake Historical Society in 1987, the S.S. Moyie has a rich history, including its operation on Kootenay Lake from 1889 until 1957.

Sarah Moffatt, operations manager of the S.S. Moyie site said, "Restorations were on and off, mostly seasonal for ten or eleven years and 2008 is the reunion of the restoration. This site gathers visitors by the thousands yearly and is world renowned."

The S.S. Moyie has strong community support which helps with draw tourists. A visit to the vessel offers a trip back in time to life at the turn of the last century. All the sights, smells and sound from the past add to this unique experience.

"I have a relationship with this ship," said Moffatt. "I call it my ship and get goose bumps at the beginning of the season and a gushy feeling when it's dismantled."

The S.S. Moyie is partnered Village of Kaslo, Parks Canada, Tourism B.C. and The Land Conservancy. For more information about the S.S. Moyie, go to www.klhs.bc.ca.