M.V. Tarahne and the Annual Tarahne Tea

During Atlin's heyday as a sought-after tourist destination, the White Pass and Yukon Company constructed the Motor Vessel Tarahne not far from its current resting place. Launched in 1917, the Tarahne served for nearly two decades, transporting passengers and freight across the lake while offering scenic cruises around Teresa Island with a close-up view of Llewellyn Glacier. Passengers were treated to the luxury of stewards in white jackets serving tea and petit fours.

By 1926/27, to accommodate the burgeoning tourist trade, the MV Tarahne was cut in half and lengthened. Below is a faded photo of that event. Have a close look at the real Tarahne down at the lakeshore, you can still see the joins.

BEFORE - 5 windows

AFTER - 8 windows

In 1936, to the disbelief of many, the White Pass discontinued Atlin tours, leaving the Tarahne stranded on the beach. Despite citizens' hopes for her return, a couple of quiet summers confirmed the end of her reign. A reminder of a prosperous era when gold mines thrived and excited tourists frequented her gangplank, the vessel endured weathering and vandalism. Fifty years later, she remained gray and forlorn on the same cribbing that had settled dangerously under her weight. Though a hazard, her rich memories made her preservation imperative.

1960’s

SS Scotia and the MV Tarahne

By 1985, the Atlin Historical Society took on the challenge, receiving a grant from the British Columbia Heritage Trust to save the Tarahne. The vessel was repositioned onto new cribbing, stripped of old paint, and adorned with a fresh coat. The weather deck was re-canvassed, bathrooms were restored, and replica lifeboats were installed. In her new life, the Tarahne became a venue for small receptions, summer weddings, luncheons, conferences, musical entertainment, meetings, dinner theatre, and parties.

In early July the AHS holds the Tarahne Tea, a very popular fund-raiser for the MV Tarahne, where tea is prepared and served by volunteers dressed in the style of the 1920s. Volunteers make and donate all of the sandwiches and desserts. They understand the importance of this fundraiser in preserving this historical boat. They couldn't fathom the Atlin waterfront without her. None of us could.

At the Tarahne Tea, you can wear a flowerpot on your head.

This is your time to be your best self.