New Docking System for Fairwinds Marina

The 250-berth Fairwinds Marina, located on the east side of Vancouver Island, recently installed a state-of-the-art docking system from International Marine Floatation Systems Ltd. (IMFS). The new system is a hybrid design that incorporates massive concrete breakwater segments, smaller one-piece concrete finger piers for 50-foot slips and IMFS’s signature torque tube fingers for smaller 25-foot and 35-foot slips. The breakwater segments measure 16 feet wide, 8 feet deep and 111 feet in length to help protect the marina during stormy winter months and allow operation at 100% capacity. Previously, the strong winter wind action created dangerous conditions at one-third of the marina’s outer wooden docks, forcing them out of service seasonally.

Transportation of the new docking system from its manufactured location at the IMFS facility in Delta, B.C., included some impressive delivery logistics. While the smaller torque tube dock segments were trailered and ferried, the larger concrete components were towed across the Strait of Georgia. The effort comprised 16 towing trips over 52 miles, each taking approximately 12 hours at a speed of 3-4 knots. Once delivered, marina manager Rowan Gloag oversaw the successful installation of the new docking system and new fuel service dock, which offers both gasoline and diesel. Slip-side amenities include fresh water and power with 15A to 100A service. Originally slated for a three-year construction schedule, the 46,000-square-foot marina was completed in just 22 months.