Vancouver is a city enriched with diversity, culture, and heritage. However, it is increasingly being dominated by a vocal minority focused on hindering development and depriving the city of its rich potential. Specifically, the fate of the Vancouver Maritime Museum (VMM) hangs in the balance, as it faces challenges from those resistant to progress and growth. This institution is more than just a museum; it is a living treasure that tells the story of our maritime heritage and serves as an educational pillar for all.

The Vancouver Maritime Museum is a vital cultural asset that brings communities together, educates visitors of all ages, and supports tourism and local businesses. Despite its contributions, the museum has faced two decades of stagnant government funding. It is currently underfunded and at risk, threatened by NIMBYism and opposition to a partnership that represents the museum's best chance for long-term sustainability.

A World-Class Vision: The Vancouver Maritime Museum has proposed a partnership with HAVN that would allow them to open a floating spa at Heritage Harbour. This is not just a commercial venture; it is a world-class addition to our waterfront. We need only look to Victoria, where HAVN has been nothing short of incredible. Since its launch, the Victoria floating spa has become a premier destination, recognized as the #1 Day Spa for 2026 and ranking in the top 1% of Canadian businesses for quality and customer satisfaction. It has revitalized the Victoria Inner Harbour, welcoming tens of thousands of guests while maintaining a 4.8-star reputation for excellence and environmental stewardship.

Proven Success on the Waterfront: The concept of a world-class floating spa is a proven success in other major Canadian cities. Montreal’s BOTA BOTA, moored in the Old Port, is a globally recognized, award-winning "spa-sur-l’eau" that has transformed a former ferry into a cultural and wellness landmark. Like Bota Bota, the HAVN barge in Vancouver will be a masterpiece of sustainable design, utilizing a repurposed naval vessel and salvaged ocean driftwood to create a stunning, 100% electric-powered destination.

Securing Our Heritage: In a thriving city like Vancouver, we must not allow such cultural amenities to be eroded. This project provides:

(a) Essential Revenue: To address deferred maintenance and revitalize museum exhibits.

(b) Infrastructure Upgrades: Privately funded electrical and dock improvements that the museum could not otherwise afford.

(c) Public Revitalization: A low-impact, high-reward use of the waterfront that draws new visitors to our maritime history.

By protecting the museum and supporting this partnership, we are standing up for progress, cultural heritage, and the diverse needs of our growing population. We are fostering learning, inspiring our youth, and ensuring that history remains accessible—and funded—for all.

We urge community members, city leaders, and stakeholders to prioritize securing the future of the Vancouver Maritime Museum by supporting the HAVN rezoning.

Let us work together to enrich our community and preserve our cultural heritage. Please sign this petition to demand action to secure the future of the Vancouver Maritime Museum. Make your voice heard and help us protect this vital piece of our shared history and culture.