After a five-year cruise through private operation, Champlain Township is saying ship ahoy to the marina business again.
On Monday, December 15, the township announced that, beginning with the 2026 boating season, the L’Orignal Marina will be managed and operated directly by the Township’s Parks and Recreation Department. This follows the conclusion of the current operating agreement with Riverest Inc.
The Township is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continued, uninterrupted operations.
“We extend our sincere thanks to Riverest Inc. for their dedication and service over the past five seasons and wish their team success in future endeavors,” said Normand Riopel, Mayor of Champlain Township.
In 2021, Champlain Township Council approved the agreement with Riverest Inc., where the contractor would operate the municipally owned marina for a minimum of five years, with an automatic secondary five-year renewal at the sole discretion of Champlain Township and the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
The Riverest Restaurant operated in the historic Marston house near the marina from 2021 to 2023. Following the closure of the restaurant, Riverest Inc. remained responsible for operating the marina under the lease established with the township in 2021. Prior to 2021, the L’Orignal Marina was operated directly by the Champlain Parks and Recreation Department.
Residents and visitors with general inquiries are encouraged to contact the Parks and Recreation Department at [email protected].
