HAVN Sauna Barge Approved for Kitsilano Marina Despite Community Debate
Vancouver City Council unanimously approved a floating sauna and cold-plunge barge beside the Vancouver Maritime Museum, despite strong public debate.
Karalee Greer
Karalee Greer | Vancouver City News | August 6, 2026
Subscription to Vancouver News is Free Being a Contributor is Free
A floating sauna and cold-plunge wellness centre is coming to Kitsilano after Vancouver City Council unanimously approved plans for HAVN Sauna to moor a restored Second World War-era naval barge at Heritage Harbour Marina beside the Vancouver Maritime Museum.
While council members praised the project as an innovative addition to Vancouver's waterfront, the proposal generated passionate debate among Kits Point residents over neighbourhood character, public access, environmental impacts, and the future of one of Vancouver's most recognizable waterfront locations.
A New Chapter for Heritage Harbour
The approved project will see HAVN Sauna permanently moor a restored 1943 naval barge at Heritage Harbour Marina adjacent to the Vancouver Maritime Museum.
The vessel will feature multiple saunas, hot and cold pools, relaxation areas, and waterfront views, creating a hydrotherapy experience similar to HAVN's existing floating facility in Victoria.
Unlike a traditional spa, HAVN says the facility will be alcohol-free, phone-free, and focused entirely on thermal wellness experiences.
Supporting the Maritime Museum
One of the driving forces behind the proposal is financial sustainability.
The Vancouver Maritime Museum has faced operating deficits in recent years, and the partnership is expected to generate approximately $250,000 annually in moorage revenue.
Museum Executive Director David Jordan told council that many cultural institutions across Canada continue to face increasing operating costs and reduced funding opportunities.
The new revenue is expected to help strengthen the museum's long-term financial position while maintaining Heritage Harbour as an active waterfront destination.
Supporters See a Unique Waterfront Attraction
Council members supporting the proposal described it as a natural addition to Vancouver's growing waterfront experiences.
Councillor Sarah Kirby-Yung said the floating hydrotherapy concept is unlike anything currently offered in Vancouver and could become another attraction that draws residents and visitors to False Creek.
Supporters also argued the project complements nearby cultural institutions including:
- Vancouver Maritime Museum
- Museum of Vancouver
- H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
- Vancouver Fringe Festival
Several speakers suggested that adding more reasons for people to visit the area benefits all of the neighbouring organizations.
Residents Raise Concerns
Not everyone welcomed the proposal.
Residents expressed concerns about:
- The visual impact of the large barge
- Potential effects on views from Kits Point
- Navigation for smaller boats
- Impacts on nearby swimming areas
- Possible environmental effects
- Whether dredging may eventually become necessary
An online petition opposing the project gathered approximately 2,500 signatures, with many residents questioning whether a private commercial wellness facility is the best use of public waterfront space.
Some also argued the City should have invited competing proposals before entering into a partnership with HAVN.
Environmental Questions Remain
Although council approved the project, additional regulatory approvals may still be required.
City staff advised that if dredging or other marine work becomes necessary, permits would need approval from agencies including the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada and other federal authorities responsible for marine navigation and environmental protection.
At the public hearing, HAVN indicated dredging is not currently anticipated.
Preserving History
HAVN CEO Nicholas Van Buren told council the vessel's military history will become part of the visitor experience.
The restored 1943 naval barge will include historical displays and photographs documenting its wartime service before becoming one of Vancouver's newest waterfront attractions.
Rather than hiding the vessel's past, HAVN plans to celebrate it as part of the overall experience.
A Waterfront Divided
The debate reflected broader questions facing Vancouver as its waterfront continues to evolve.
Some residents see projects like HAVN as an opportunity to create vibrant public destinations while supporting local cultural institutions.
Others worry about increasing commercialization of public spaces and preserving the unique character of Kits Point.
Council ultimately concluded the project could coexist with existing marina users, nearby beaches, and public access while providing new economic opportunities for the Maritime Museum.
Why It Matters
The HAVN approval represents more than a new wellness business.
It demonstrates how Vancouver's cultural institutions are increasingly looking to creative partnerships to remain financially sustainable while adapting historic public spaces for modern uses.
Whether the project becomes a celebrated waterfront destination or remains controversial among nearby residents will likely depend on how successfully it integrates with one of Vancouver's most cherished neighbourhoods.
About the Vancouver Maritime Museum
Located at 1905 Ogden Avenue in Kits Point, the Vancouver Maritime Museum has served the city since 1959 and is home to one of Canada's most significant maritime collections, including the historic St. Roch, the first vessel to complete the Northwest Passage from west to east.
Karalee Greer | Vancouver City News
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karalee/
Subscription to Vancouver City News is Free Become a Contributor for Free
Tags: #Kitsilano #Kits Point #HAVN Sauna #Vancouver Maritime Museum #Vancouver City Council #Vancouver City News #Karalee Greer