The original Joe Drinkwater tugboat dates back to 1899, when prospector and trapper Joseph Drinkwater pioneered much of the gold prospecting activity over a century ago. Joseph Drinkwater, discovered the tallest vertical falls (440m /1443 ft) in Canada and named them after his wife Della. Accessible only by hiking trails, Della Falls is approximately 30 kms from Sproat Lake.
Sproat lake landing is proud to continue the tradition with the opening of Drinkwaters Lakeside Lounge and Stirling Room and the launch of Joe Drinkwater IV tugboat, signifying the bounty and importance of tourism to Sproat Lake and the Alberni Valley.
As the latest chapter in Sproat Lake’s rich history, Drinkwater’s promises to be true to its legacy of providing quality fresh local food, abundant spirits and many fond memories to residents and visitors enjoying the natural beauty of Sproat Lake.