Port Side Marina originally opened in 1927
as Gilbert's Boathouse, becoming Gilbert's Boats & Guide Service in about 1963
Memorial plaque commemorating Harry Gilbert
Port Side Marina is located in Brentwood Bay British Columbia, a small neighborhood rich in heritage, often characterized as a "village", in the municipality of Central Saanich. Brentwood Bay was originally known as Moodyville.
Port Side Marina started out as Gilbert's Guide Boathouse in 1927 with the construction of a sawmill to process timber to build summer cabins.
In 1938 the marina was hit by fire, which resulted in rebuilding and adding the marine ways.
From 1955 to 1970 , in addition to the guiding operation and boat rentals, Gilbert's was also home to a commercial smokehouse, freezer plant, the launch ramp and marine ways.
It wasn't uncommon for people to return with Chinook salmon up to 30lbs. At one point a basking shark, normally found in waters much further south, was landed.
Over the years, Gilbert's saw their fair share of notable anglers, including the Rt. Hon. John Diefenbaker - Canada's 13th Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Lester B. Pearson - Canada's 14th Prime Minister, Oscar Peterson, hockey great Gordie Howe, as well as a very young Shirley Temple.
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