Seaspan Vessels to Moor at Ogden Point (Canada)

The picturesque Unity Mural on the Ogden Point breakwater will soon look upon a new float and several working tugs. Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA) has signed a 15- year lease with Seaspan Marine Corporation for water and upland space at Ogden Point.

The agreement includes more than 8,500 ft 2 of water area for a dock and gangway to moor Seaspan tugs on the inside of the breakwater, a 2,500 ft 2 section of the Pier A warehouse to use as a workshop for repairing and maintaining vessels, and a parking area for Seaspan employees.

The initial five year term runs from August 1, 2012 to July 31, 2017, with two five-year renewal options.

“We are very excited to be moving in to this great location at Ogden Point,” said Robert Hedley, Senior Vice President of Marine Operations at Seaspan. “Vancouver Island and Victoria, in particular, have a deep maritime heritage. We enjoy great relationships with GVHA, the Pacific Pilotage Authority and other long term customers. This new operations base for our tugs reflects Seaspan’s commitment to servicing the marine industry and the community for many years to come.”

Curtis Grad, GVHA President and CEO, noted that Seaspan’s move to Ogden Point represents an excellent step forward in the continued diversification of marine activity on the site.

“Tug service is critical to the long-term sustainability of our working harbour. We look forward to hosting Seaspan’s working vessels which will help in maintaining a healthy and thriving marine industry in Victoria.”

Three tugs will find a home at the new Ogden Point floats – the Seaspan Foam, Charles H. Cates IV and Charles H. Cates XX. The tugs are used for ship docking and barge work in Victoria and Esquimalt harbours.

Golder and Associates is overseeing the environmental protection measures of the dock installation on the inside of the breakwater. They conducted tests of water turbidity and underwater sound from pile-driving to limit the impact to fish and marine mammals.

The warehouse space will allow Seaspan staff to perform regular maintenance and store supplies for the vessels.

[mappress]

Source: Seaspan, August 9, 2012