More new business at Ogden Point

By Josie Bannerman

Early morning walks along the Ogden Point breakwater got more interesting in early August as a barge-with-tall-crane moved in by the dock the pilot boats use. Rusty looking pipes were jiggled into upright positions extending out from the current dock. Sections of new dock were towed into place.

The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has signed a 15-year lease with Seaspan Marine Corporation for moorage space for tugboats inside the breakwater, and dock construction is part of the preparation. Seaspan will keep three tugs at Ogden Point. The lease also includes provision of warehouse space for regular maintenance and storage.

The new agreement fits into GVHA's plan to diversify and revitalize marine based activity at Ogden Point. Curtis Grad, GVHA President and CEO said: "Tug service is critical to the long-term sustainability of our working harbour."

While cruise ships keep the port bustling from May to September, the GVHA is aggressively seeking out business opportunities that operate year round or during winter months. Earlier this year, they signed an agreement to provide moorage and warehouse space for the cable repair vessel CS Wave Venture. Over last winter, 11 freighters called in at Ogden Point to have cargo holds cleaned, and 11 yacht transporters visited. The port also handled log salvage from a freighter damaged at sea.