Ralmax Group of Companies (Ralmax) announced June 29th, 2020 that it has acquired a majority ownership position in the Victoria Harbour Ferry and has signed a lease agreement with the Victoria Harbour Authority to ensure the continued operation of this well-established marine tourism operation on Victoria harbour.
“While Ralmax is perhaps best known for its commitment to employment lands and responsible industry, the working harbour includes tourism operations as well,” said Ralmax President and CEO Ian Maxwell. “Victoria Harbour Ferry has been around for thirty years and I value the importance of maintaining and supporting tourism jobs in our local economy. The health pandemic hit tourism first and hit them hard. This sector is one of our region’s primary economic generators and it will recover providing we all work together to support local businesses. Ralmax is pleased to welcome Victoria Harbour Ferry to our group.”
This decision came about following news that Victoria Harbour Ferry was unable to complete successfully lease negotiations with Greater Victoria Harbour Authority (GVHA). Following discussions over the weekend with GVHA and the ownership partners of Victoria Harbour Ferries, Ralmax acquired 55% of the ferry operations and engaged in negotiations with GVHA. A lease agreement was signed this morning with GVHA.
“Victoria Harbour Ferry is proud to be the newest member of the Ralmax Group of Companies,” said Victoria Harbour Ferries President and CEO, Barry Hobbis. “Ian Maxwell’s commitment to the working harbour and high-value jobs has strengthened and diversified our economy. We are grateful to have Ralmax’s interest and professionalism to help move us through this challenging season. From crisis to opportunity in a weekend. This is a new day and we are all in this together.” Hobbis remains an active partner in Victoria Harbour Ferry and will continue to run the day to day operations of the company.
“I am pleased that the Victoria Harbour Ferry will continue to operate throughout Victoria harbour and make stops at our Causeway Marina and Fisherman’s Wharf. The unique experience that the Victoria Harbour Ferry offers adds to the dynamic working harbour that Victorians and visitors love,” said Ian Robertson, CEO Greater Victoria Harbour Authority. “We look forward to working with the Ralmax Group of Companies as they lead Victoria Harbour Ferry through the difficult period of COVID-19. We are pleased that we were able to find an agreement that meets the needs of our two organizations.”
