Ladysmith Maritime Society

Purpose of Ladysmith Maritime Society

The Ladysmith Maritime Society is a 280-member non-profit charitable organization that has been in continuous operation since 1985. The purpose of the Society as stated in its constitution is to serve the community by:

  • Protecting and promoting Ladysmith's maritime heritage including
    • the development and operation of a maritime museum.
    • fostering expertise in the construction, maintenance, and restoration of heritage boats
    • Promoting tourism activity in the harbour.
  • Protecting and promoting public access to the waterfront.
  • Operating a marina for the benefit of Ladysmith area residents including
    • provision of moorage and services for local and visiting boaters.
    • Provision of services for heritage and other vessels, including heritage vessels owned by the Society.
  • Operating as a non-profit society under the BC Society Act.
  • Operating as a registered charity recognized by the Government of Canada.
  • Holding and operating properties and facilities of the Society.
In addition to the moorage, the Society also offers many additional amenities and services as outlined below:
  • Harbour tours operating in the warmer seasons.
  • An annual maritime festival that attracts more than 3000 visitors.
  • An award winning Maritime History Museum that includes the restoration of eight west coast heritage vessels.
  • A gathering place for local and visitor marine events.
  • Moorage and site support for Cowichan Independent Living, Disabled Sailing Association program.
  • A water safety program for children called "kids don't float" that provides free loans of lifejackets to children on the marina's docks.
  • A children's dock with a marine-life viewing hole in the centre.
  • Site support for the BC Purple Martin Stewardship and Recovery Program to provide nesting habitat and to monitor the blue-listed Purple Martin.
LMS has, in consultation with the Town of Ladysmith, developed plans to expand its facilities in accordance with the community's refreshed 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 two full-time staff persons are actively involved in the day-to-day activities of making the LMS Community Marina a successful economic development initiative.

© Ladysmith Maritime Society