In an exciting development for the marine industry, the Oak Bay Marine Group has been acquired by Graham Clarke, a prominent businessman with deep local ties and a substantial portfolio that includes Coal Harbour Marina and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.

Growing up in Oak Bay, Clarke expressed that this acquisition is especially meaningful to him. "For me, this is deeply personal," he stated, reminiscing about his childhood in the community. The sale, finalized on December 19, was for an undisclosed sum and aligns with the District of Oak Bay's initiatives to revitalize the marina, introducing enhanced features and amenities.

With this purchase, Clarke significantly expands his operations, bringing the total number of Vancouver Island marinas he owns to four. This includes the Oak Bay Marina, North Saanich Marina, Lacey’s Marina, and the Pedder Bay RV Resort and Marina. The acquisition also encompasses the Oak Bay Marine Group's boathouse construction business along with the Marina Dockside Eatery, a popular local dining spot.

Notably, the management and staff at Oak Bay Marine Group, including the current CEO Brook Castelsky, are set to remain with the company, ensuring continuity as Clarke steps into his new role. He looks forward to taking on a coaching position, leveraging his extensive experience in the industry. "Crossword puzzles are fine, but this is a lot more fun," he quipped about his return to the business world.

The Oak Bay Marine Group has a storied history, having been founded in 1962 by the late Bob Wright, an entrepreneur who built it into a thriving sport-fishing and tourism operation. During its peak, the group boasted floating fishing lodges and several hotels, which have since been sold. After Wright's passing in 2013, his estate managed the company until it was sold to Clarke, who revealed that discussions surrounding the deal began three years ago.

Castelsky emphasized that this transition helps preserve the legacy of the Oak Bay Marine Group while ensuring continued service to the loyal communities and clientele. Clarke, who served as chair of the Vancouver Airport Authority for 13 years, holds an impressive resume that expands beyond marinas; his other business endeavors include ferry operations in British Columbia.

As part of his strategic vision, Clarke hinted at potential upgrades for the marina, including the installation of high-tech floating platforms. However, he stressed the importance of consulting with the District and local First Nations before proceeding with any plans.

Oak Bay owns the property at Turkey Head, which includes the marina site, and currently holds a five-year lease that runs until 2027. The District is focused on finding a sustainable, environmentally-friendly plan that is endorsed by local Indigenous communities and residents. In 2020, Oak Bay issued a request for proposals seeking ideas for a new 30-year lease; however, after extending the lease in 2022, they decided against the Oak Bay Marine Group’s redevelopment proposals.

Clarke’s ventures are not just limited to marinas. He is deeply passionate about the marine industry, having navigated numerous roles including deckhand, fish packer, and ferry operator. His adventurous spirit led him to travel the world for seven years, and he has experienced a significant maritime incident, having been aboard B.C. Ferries' Queen of the North when it tragically sank in 2006.

With Clarke at the helm, the future of the Oak Bay Marine Group looks promising as he blends local heritage with innovative marine solutions. The business world will be watching closely to see how this acquisition unfolds and what exciting developments lie ahead for this iconic marine group.