North Vancouver announces B.C.’s first open seawater swimming facility in Burrard Inlet

A rendering of the the floating swimming platform planned to be built within the Burrard Inlet by 2027. (Courtesy: City of North Vancouver)

The city of North Vancouver has announced a project that will invite swimmers to take a dip in the frigid waters of Burrard Inlet.

Harbour Deck is an open sea swimming facility that will be built on Burrard Inlet at the foot of Waterfront Park, just blocks from the hub of Lower Lonsdale where the SeaBus docks. It will be the first of its kind in B.C.

“Today’s announcement marks the beginning of something extraordinary: A bold and innovative initiative that places the city of North Vancouver among leading global cities in countries such as Australia, France, Denmark and, right here in Canada, our own Quebec City,” said North Vancouver city mayor Linda Buchanan.

The 7,000 square meters of protected swimming area will include a shallow pool, 50 metre swim lanes and a diving platform, along with a seating area, outdoor showers, changing stalls and even real sand. It will be free for the public.

“Imagine the sound of children’s laughter as they jump from the deck, youth splashing and playing in the summer fun, and families and seniors relaxing in a beach-like setting under colourful umbrellas with their feet nestled in the warm sand, all set against the backdrop of our beautiful harbour,” said Buchanan.

It is a joint project between the city and a charity called Swim Drink Fish, which found that portion of Burrard Inlet safe for swimming after conducting two years of water testing.

“This is a new era. People are rediscovering their rivers, lakes and harbours,” said Swim Drink Fish president Mark Mattson. “This project encompasses more than just infrastructure. It’s about reimagining our relationship with water and with each other.”

The Weston family donated $16 million for the construction of Harbour Deck, and the city, which will operate the facility, kicked in $5 million.

“The operating costs are estimated at approximately half a million a year. Currently, we envision it being lifeguarded during the peak seasons of May to September,” said the city’s directorof parks and public space, Dave Hutch.

“Once the deck is up and running, this new attraction is expected to generate up to $10 million annually in spending within our city, boosting small businesses and jobs and contributing to a strong local economy,” added Buchanan.

The city invited several open water swimmers to the project announcement. They dove into the inlet, which was just over 10 C on Monday. In the summer, the surface temperature can climb as high as 20 C, but in the winter, it can drop to just 5 C.

“It felt chilly, but refreshing and I feel energized,’ said swimmer Rachel Schoeler upon exiting the water.

“I can’t wait to be here. I think it’s amazing that it’s right here, so close for so many people on the North Shore. It’s going to be an awesome place to celebrate and hang out with family and friends.”

Sadie Caron also jumped into the inlet without hesitation.

“It was fantastic. Very cold, very refreshing. (It’s) so exciting to have a beautiful swimming area here soon,” Caron said, adding that she understands why some people think the water is too cold at any time of year.

“The first time I did a cold plunge, I was only in for about 10 seconds because it was way too cold. So I completely understand, but it gets more bearable each time you go, and I’ve got to say it gets a little addictive because it feels so good,” she said.

Construction on the Harbour Deck will begin next year and it is scheduled to open in 2027.

“I can’t emphasize enough how exciting this milestone is for our city. The first ever outdoor swimming facility is truly a historic investment in recreation, health, and community well-being,” said Buchanan.

The mayor added that while she’s not a fan of cold plunging, she “will be there on opening day, and I will definitely be going in.”