About Us

Who we are.

The Ladysmith Maritime Society is a 280-member non-profit charitable organization that has been in continuous operation since 1985.

Welcome Centre

The purpose of the Society as stated in its constitution is to serve the community by:

  • Protect and promote Ladysmith’s maritime heritage including
    • Development and operation of a maritime museum
    • Foster expertise in the construction, maintenance, and restoration of heritage boats
    • Promote tourism activity in the harbour
  • Protect and promote public access to the waterfront
  • Operate a marina for the benefit of Ladysmith area residents including
    • Provide moorage and services for local and visiting boaters
    • Provide services for heritage and other vessels, including heritage vessels owned by the Society
  • Operate as a non-profit society under the BC Society Act
  • Operate as a registered charity recognized by the Government of Canada
  • Hold and operate properties and facilities of the Society

In addition to moorage, the Society offers the following amenities and services:

  • Harbour tours during the summer season
  • An annual Maritime Festival that attracts more than 3000 visitors
  • An award winning floating Maritime History Museum that includes west coast heritage vessels
  • A gathering place for local and visitor marine events
  • Moorage and site support for Cowichan Independent Living, a sailing program for those with disabilities
  • A Paddling Centre for all to use in safely launching their kayaks, canoes or paddleboards for touring the local harbour
  • A water safety program for children called “Kids Don’t Float,” that provides the free loan of a PFD (personal flotation device aka lifejacket) to children on our marina’s docks
  • A children’s dock with a marine-life viewing portal
  • Site support for the BC Purple Martin Stewardship and Recovery Program to provide nesting habitat and monitor the blue-listed Purple Martin

LMS has developed its facilities in accordance with the community’s vision for the waterfront and with a focus on increased economic benefit for the community from marine tourism. The Ladysmith Maritime Society has a proven track record since July 1985 of operating a highly successful non-profit charitable society.

The Directors, numerous LMS members, volunteers and full-time staff persons are actively involved in the day-to-day activities of making the Ladysmith Community Marina a success.

Upcoming Events

Discover Maritime Heritage with the Ladysmith Maritime Society

Ahoy, Ladysmith community!  It’s that time of the year when we throw open the doors of our maritime haven and welcome you to a day filled with nautical wonders. Join us on Monday, 19 February 2024, from 10:00 am to 03:00 pm, as we share the maritime heritage that makes our town truly special.

Keep In Touch

Sign up for our Monthly Newsletter

Keep up to date with events, news and fundraising activities by signing up for our monthly newsletter (on or around the 15th), and the occasional "newsflash". You'll need to "double opt-in" and you can unsubscribe at any time.