By David Wiwchar

No launch fees or supervision

Clutesi boat ramp ‘free-for-all’ this summer

Feb 18, 2026 | 8:52 AM

Clutesi Haven Marina will be a free-for-all this summer.

Given the roundabout construction, City Council decided to make the boat launch and parking area free, causing concern from boaters.

City Councillor Charles Mealey says Port Alberni boaters are usually polite and accomodating, but if there are problems, the police will become involved.

“I’ve been down there. I’ve seen the battles. I’ve heard it and I understand it,” he said. “The people that use it for the most part are very respectful so we’re just gonna knock on wood that it will all go as planned this year and if there is any incivility down there, that’ll be taken care of by the proper authorities.”

Once the $8 million roundabout project is finished this fall, and the Clutesi grounds have been restored, council will invest in infrastructure, including parking meters, but hope to keep the boat launch free.

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City staff reported previous managers Port Alberni Port Authority spent $150,000 a year on staffing while launch fees generated just $120,000 in return.