Heritage Harbour Marina, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Maritime Museum Harbour community in Hadden Park, is a beloved and historical dock that has served locals and visitors alike for decades. This quaint marina, known for its charming ambiance, is now under threat from a proposed development plan that aims to introduce a 150-foot x 34-foot barge “wellness” spa with rooftop hot tubs and saunas into this small space. Such a project would permanently alter the character of our cherished marina and obstruct the gorgeous views from both the park and the West End.

https://vancouversun.com/news/floating-spa-havn-kitsilano-vancouver-waterfront

https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/havn-saunas-floating-spa-vancouver-maritime-museum-kitsilano

https://vanmaritime.com/explore/havn-sauna/

(The current 150ft barge spa in Victoria Harbour 📷 CTV News)

 

 

(The 150ft barge to be refurbished for the marina  📷 Havn Sauna) 

 

 

The introduction of a massive spa barge threatens not only the aesthetic and historical value of Heritage Harbour Marina but also its ecological balance. The marina currently hosts a delicate ecosystem supporting a variety of aquatic life and plant species. The large-scale vessel, increased foot traffic, and inevitable pollution from the barge pose risks to this fragile environment, potentially leading to widespread damage and disruption.

http://www.falsecreekwatershed.org

Furthermore, the introduction of this outsized development could lead to several logistical challenges. The marina's infrastructure may not support the increased pressure from larger vessels, leading to potential safety hazards for both the leisure craft currently berthed and the spa’s patrons. Even though Havn Sauna claim that the barge will act as a breakwater for the smaller vessels it's just as likely that it could damage them and the docks during a severe storm and king tide. 

With a capacity of 200-300 guests per day between 8am and 11pm, the project will disrupt the peaceful atmosphere that residents and visitors  enjoy, replacing it with increased noise, traffic and reduced access to shared community resources. 

This project prioritizes commercial gain over community well-being, undermining the core values that make Heritage Harbour a unique and and cherished destination. A facility that costs $84 for a 3 hour "wellness experience" in rooftop hot tubs and saunas is designed for the affluent. Furthermore, it's questionable as to how much revenue it will bring in for the Maritime Museum as the public as yet to see any revenue and revenue sharing projections provided by either the applicant or the City.

We propose that regulatory bodies halt the development plan and engage in meaningful consultation with the local community.  A comprehensive impact assessment should be conducted to explore the potential ramifications on the marina's environment, culture, infrastructure and community. This community-first approach will ensure that any future proposed development aligns with the preservation of Heritage Harbour's identity and meets the needs of its residents and stakeholders.

In conclusion, while we appreciate the financial needs of the Maritime Museum, this particular proposal is clearly a bad fit for this location due to its oversized footprint and potential negative impact on marine life, the existing marina and neighbourhood and should be rejected. 

Your signature is crucial to persuade decision-makers to act in the best interest of Heritage Harbour Marina, marina and park users and local residents. Join us in preserving our marina's heritage, environment, and community spirit by signing this petition. 

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"Original proposed HAVN floating spa location at the dock of the Plaza of Nations in False Creek. (HAVN)" gives a good idea of the 150ft x 34ft footprint of the barge in comparison to smaller boats nearby. 

https://dailyhive.com/vancouver/havn-floating-spa-sauna-plaza-of-nations-false-creek-vancouver

 

 

 

(The current 150ft barge spa in Victoria Harbour 📷 HAVN Sauna) How does this fit with Heritage Harbour Marina?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nov 29, 25 📷 Elvira Lount