Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the questions that we are asked most frequently:
What is BC Ferries phone number?
The Nanaimo Port Authority cannot answer inquiries regarding BC Ferries.
Please contact 1-888-223-3779 or go to www.bcferries.com
Where do I register my pleasure boat?
Contact Transport Canada Ship Registry 1-877-242-8770 or view their website.
Where do I transfer or register my commercial boat?
Contact Transport Canada Ship Registry 1-877-242-8770 or view their website.
Do you receive Government money and, if so, why aren’t your prices cheaper?
Contrary to popular belief, the Port Authority does not receive any money or grants from Federal, Provincial or Municipal Governments. The Port Authority is required to be financially self-sufficient and as such must generate its own revenue to balance annual operating and capital expenses. This is achieved through Harbour Dues, Property Management, Cargo Operations, Moorage, Wharfage, etc
Why do I have to pay at a Government dock?
The marina, which includes the Commercial Inlet Boat Basin, W.E. Mills Landing & Marina are not Government Docks. These are privately owned facilities operated by the Port Authority. The costs of running the operations are subsidized, in part, by user fees.
Do you provide parking at your facilities?
The Port provides on-site pay parking for a total of 180 vehicles on the upper and lower parkade levels at the Pioneer waterfront Plaza adjacent to the Nanaimo Boat Basin. Within easy walking distance from our main office are at least 700 other parking stalls.
Do you have a pump-out facility for holding tanks?
Yes, the Eco Barge is located on the central breakwater at the entrance to the Boat Basin, details can be found at Eco-Barge. This service is provided by the Nanaimo Port Authority to pleasure boats free of charge.
What are your Office hours?
The administration office hours are:
08:30 – 16:30 Monday to Friday except statutory holidays - 250-753-4146.
The Wharfinger office (marina) hours are:
Summer: May 1 to Sept 30 - 0730 hrs to 2200 hrs
Winter: October 1 to April 30 - 0830 hrs to 1800 hrs except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day - 250-754-5053.
Do you have storage lockers?
Unfortunately we don’t have storage on our marina site due to lack of available space.
How do I get a licence for Busking on Port property?
You will require a Licence, issued by the City of Nanaimo, to busk on Port property.
When are the Cruise Ships coming?
Various Cruise Ships and Pocket Cruise Ships call at the Port between April and October at the Passenger facility at 100 Port Drive. For the latest Cruise Ship schedule please click on Cruise Vessel Schedule.
How can I contact the Farmers Market?
You can view their website at nanaimodowntownfarmersmarket.com.
Where do I report dead, beached or stranded seals?
Contact the Pacific Biological Station, 250-756-7230 or 1-800-665-5939