It was anything but smooth sailing this weekend in Victoria, as a fight over a proposed marina for mega-yachts spilled into the public arena.
While expensive yachts are a familiar sight in Vancouver, the proposal has proven highly controversial in Victoria.
A 52-slip marina has been proposed, which would hold vessels up to 135-feet long in Victoria Harbour. Opponents say it would ruin the view and make the sea-space too crowded.
"All the work that's gone into making this a safe harbour literally goes out the window when you put a marina of this size in our already-choked off area," said Barry Hobbis, director of Victoria Harbour Ferry Co.
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The harbour was filled with kayakers on Saturday, out to voice their opposition to the home for luxury yachts. Dozens were protesting on foot as well, including Green Party leader Elizabeth May.
"It is stunning to me that this is even being considered," she said. "It's a gross expropriation of what has been common public space within the harbour."
Supporters gathered to voice their side of the story at a press conference on Friday. The meeting had an unusual beginning, when developer Bob Evans told a local reporter to leave.
"Your mother is running the campaign against it and we don't want you here," Evans told him. "Out."
Supporters argue protestors exaggerate the issue, and that big benefits are at stake.
"This is an industry that supports young people in the community," Anthony Utley, owner of Raven Marine Services, said. "Young people have got to have jobs."
The development still needs approval from the municipal, provincial and federal governments. So far, none have been granted.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Norma Reid
