Boundary Creek Marina
The first place available to dock or tie up a boat was on a rustic pier in the main beach, (1902) which was then replaced by the large CPR pier in 1907. However, this was less than ideal for small boats due to the unpredictable and harsh weather that comes up on the lake unexpectedly. So after years of pressure from the village, the federal government constructed a breakwater and made harbor improvements at the mouth of Boundary Creek. Later, a lighthouse was built at the end of the pier and a shelter was constructed on the middle of the pier. The annual Wrigley Swim used to end here, having begun at the CPR Pier.
First Pier in at Winnipeg Beach. (1902)
Boats docked at the CPR Pier (1910)
Construction of the breakwater to make the natural
harbour into Boundary Creek Marina
The breakwater and lighthouse
In August of 1910, the Winnipeg Beach Club voted to spend $5000.00 to build a clubhouse. It was built on stilts on the south side of the harbour, across from the government pier. It was taken over during World War I for the care of wounded soldiers. In 1936, Lieutenant-Governor W.J. Tupper officiated at its reincarnation as the Aquatic Club. It served as a social club for a restricted membership and their guests.
The marina that was developed has provided dockage for boats for many years. Located where Boundary Creek flows into Lake Winnipeg, it is a natural harbour enhanced by the man-made breakwater. Unlike other harbours on the lake, it is protected from strong winds and large waves by the landforms surrounding it. This protection greatly reduces vessel motion inside the harbour even when stormy weather occurs. Today Boundary Creek Marina, is owned and operated by Lake Agassiz Marine. The harbour can accommodate over 215 vessels, ranging in size from jet skis to vessels as long as 50 feet. The boating community of Winnipeg Beach is a close knit community with people living on their boats for the summer and activities planned weekly.
One of the “vintage” boats that was in the marina for many years was the “Thunderbird”, a 48 ft Lake Winnipeg Trawler restored by Linda and Danny Thacker over many years.
Like with many of the historic cottages in the area, people were always curious about their “vintage boat” and asked for tours. It was featured along with several other boats and the marina in scenes in the TV series Falcon Beach, with one of the main characters working at the marina. Here are a few photos of what the Thunderbird looks like. You can see why boaters are drawn to the charm of “living on the water”.
Here are a few photos of The Thunderbird
