An Award-Winning Marina
Mañana Resort & Marina was recently honoured in the 2026 Vancouver Island Commercial Building Awards! The Award of Excellence for Renovations & Tenant Improvements were prented to the team at an awards ceremony held on April 30, 2026 at the Nanaimo Conference Centre. Mañana Resort & Marina was one of 46 finalists that were eligilbe for awards in 14 different categories.
Unique Elements Worth Celebrating
The Renovations & Tenant Improvements category featured projects that focused on elements such as sustainability practices, innovative construction, and environmental remediation.
Mañana Resort & Marina’s two-year long renovations included several elements that fit this category, such as:
- Adaptive Waterfront Revitalization – The project transformed a deteriorated marina and aging resort into a modern boutique coastal destination while retaining the cultural and historic character of Ladysmith Harbour and upholding marine standards.
- Comprehensive Dock Replacement – Aging docks were upgraded to low‑impact floating infrastructure built from marine‑grade yellow cedar supplied locally by Sawmill Direct, improving safety, durability, ecological performance, and functionality for approximately 138 vessels.
- Environmental Remediation – Creosote‑treated piles and non-encapsulated flotation were removed, responsibly disposed of, then replaced with environmentally appropriate alternatives aligned with DFO construction best practices to reduce long-term contamination.
- Upgraded Sitewide Infrastructure – Electrical service and distribution were modernized across the property, including on the docks, to improve efficiency and reliability. Septic systems were replaced, marina access improved, parking expanded, and the water treatment system for the property and three neighbouring homes upgraded.
- Sustainable Transportation and Energy‑Efficiency – EV charging stations were added to support low‑emission travel. Energy-efficient structural, mechanical, electrical, and building envelope upgrades were incorporated into the renovated restaurant and inn.
- Hospitality Enhancements – Inn suites were renovated using natural, coastal-inspired finishes. Public spaces were improved, including a new 1,600 sq. ft. covered dockside gathering area supporting community use.
- Improved Guest Amenities – Laundry, washroom, and shower facilities for marina customers were demolished and replaced with durable, modern buildings designed for comfort and long-term use.
- Indigenous Partnership – Collaboration with the Coast Salish Development Corporation supported respectful, culturally informed engagement with local First Nations.
- Phased Construction – All work occurred while the marina remained operational, requiring careful coordination and advanced marine safety planning.
- Local Procurement and Partnerships – The project prioritized Canadian suppliers and regional subcontractors to keep economic benefits local.
- Material Reuse – Fallen trees from the site were salvaged, milled, and repurposed into handcrafted furnishings, including benches and a custom coffee bar.
One of the project’s most significant challenges was working within the constraints of existing structures and aging marine infrastructure, which demanded creative engineering solutions and strong collaboration among project teams and community partners, all the while maintaining marina operations throughout construction. This required careful coordination to minimize customer, community, and environmental impacts.
Overall, the project represents a major reinvestment of approximately $10 million into the waterfront, revitalizing a historic property into a renewed hub for tourism, gathering, and coastal culture.
The ownership, as well as construction, management and operations team were all in attendance for the ceremony and gala dinner. It was a wonderful opportunity to highlight the contributions, partnerships and accomplishments for all involved.
We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy our award-winning marina!
