|

Graham Clarke Group acquires Oak Bay Marine Group, expanding its British Columbia Marine Presence

Graham Clarke Group

Jan 21, 2025

Graham Clarke Group (GCG), a leader in British Columbia’s marine and hospitality industry, is pleased to announce it has acquired Oak Bay Marine Group (OBMG), a company with a celebrated 62-year legacy in coastal marina services and oceanfront hospitality. The acquisition of OBMG includes its four Vancouver Island marinas (Oak Bay Marina, North Saanich Marina, Ladysmith Marina and Pedder Bay RV Resort & Marina), along with OBMG Boathouses and the Marina Dockside Eatery.

This acquisition marks a significant milestone for GCG as it solidifies its position as a premier marine operator in British Columbia, while preserving the rich heritage and community contributions of OBMG. GCG also owns Harbour Cruises (a renowned 113-year-old Vancouver marine tourism and hospitality attraction), Coal Harbour Marina (Vancouver’s premiere marina), Western Pacific Marine (BC-based ferry operator and ship builder), and the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre.

“For me, this is deeply personal,” said Graham Clarke, owner of Graham Clarke Group. “I grew up in Oak Bay and have always admired the legacy of Oak Bay Marine Group. This acquisition is more than an expansion; it’s about honouring a business that has meant so much to the community. Our goal is to preserve what makes OBMG special while building exciting new opportunities for the future.”

GCG is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for OBMG’s customers, employees and partners while maintaining the high standards the company is known for.

Brook Castelsky, CEO of Oak Bay Marine Group, reflected on the alignment between the two companies. “When Bob Wright founded OBMG, his vision was to connect people with the beauty of our coastal environment and create unforgettable experiences on the water. Graham Clarke Group shares that same vision. This partnership ensures OBMG’s legacy will carry on while we continue to serve the communities and customers who have supported us over the years.”

With this acquisition, GCG continues its growth as a trusted name in marine tourism and hospitality. Known for its innovative approach to marina operations, tourism and sustainable marine transportation, Harbour Cruises is ideally positioned to blend the best of both organizations for an even brighter future.

Burkett & Co. served as financial advisor to the Oak Bay Marine Group.

Related Posts





BC Ferries: Queen of Surrey out of Commission until Jan 28th amid Proposed BC Ferries Expansion

NMEA

By Mathew Channer

BC Ferries vessel Queen of Surrey is expected to remain out of commission until the end of the month, according to BC Ferries.

The vessel, which has been in service for more than 40 years, was pulled from the Horseshoe Bay to Langdale service on January 1st to undergo repairs to its propulsion system.

Read More




Need to Catch up on News This Week?

Every Tuesday we publish a fresh Digest with informative articles pertaining to the Canadian boating and marine industry. Stay up to date with the latest products, research and industry developments.

Missed an Issue of Boating Industry Canada News Week? If you’re looking for a specific issue, or simply want to catch up on previous issues, check out our Boating Industry Canada News Week Archives.

Not signed up for News Week? Subscribe here.



Kropf Industrial Delivers First All-Electric Travel Lift

Kropf Industrial, manufacturer of the industry-leading Conolift line of boat handling equipment, is excited to announce that its first all-electric travel lift is now in service in Ontario. The advanced design has eliminated both the diesel power unit and the hydraulic system, yielding a simplified machine that is quiet, and free from emissions and the risk of spills.

Read More



Mercury Marine enhances Joystick Piloting capabilities, laying the groundwork for an exciting future in effortless autonomous boating

Hubbell-Marine Stainless steel outlet covers

Mercury Marine®, a division of Brunswick Corporation has announced a software update for its SmartCraft®operating system that gives Joystick Piloting powerful new capabilities. The system can now automatically counteract the effects of wind, waves and current while a boater is driving with the joystick, giving them the ability to dock and maneuver with effortless precision.

Read More