Saskatchewan lake looking to break record for most people floating at one time

By Angie Rolheiser

The community of Manitou Beach will make a record attempt at most people floating in Little Manitou Lake at one time Saturday as part of the resort village’s centennial celebrations.

People from all over the province are expected to take to the mineral water in Little Manitou Lake for what’s being called the “big float.”

Manitou Beach community development officer Brendan Manz said it’s a perfect way to celebrate the uniqueness of the lake.

“Everyone from around the province and beyond knows this is the lake that you can float in,” Manz said. “We thought, ‘Why don’t we try to get as many people in here as possible?’ ”

Little Manitou Lake possesses heavy mineral qualities that make it three times saltier than the ocean.

The village is not necessarily looking to break a world record with this, but Manz is hoping it might break the mould and spark interest for other lakes.

“This could create a benchmark for not only our lake but others potentially in Canada or at least in Saskatchewan,” Manz said. “You never know; this may grow into something where someday we may be able to challenge for a world record.”

Registration for the event is to begin at 11 a.m., and the float takes place at 2 p.m.

“We don’t know how people are coming, maybe hundreds, maybe thousands so we will ask everyone to enter the water nicely and be kind and gentle to everybody as they get in,” Manz said.

There will be a couple of different vantage points for the photos taken from a plane flying over the lake.

“This may be a chance to get some of those other folks who have never experienced floating in Little Manitou Lake and to be part of somewhat of a historical event,” Manz said.

The centennial celebrations will continue throughout the summer.