Lunenburg Shipyard's $20M Expansion to Create 150 New Jobs: A Major Boost for Nova Scotia's Marine Industry

The Lunenburg Shipyard is set for a major transformation with a $20-million expansion plan that promises to create 150 new jobs over five years. The project will upgrade infrastructure and piers to accommodate larger defence, aquaculture, fishing, and leisure vessels, while preserving the historic charm of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

CEO Bradison Boutilier emphasizes the balance between modernizing and maintaining tradition: "You have to balance economics and make sure you’re running a viable business, but you’re also working in a World Heritage Site and there’s an implied obligation to make sure you keep the traditions alive."

Since Boutilier acquired the shipyard in July 2023, it has prioritized local partnerships, sourcing materials and labor from the region. 50% of the construction workforce is expected to come from other local businesses, amplifying the economic impact.

A Boon for Marine Businesses

Local business owner Michael Moreland of Lunenburg Boat Locker and Ironbound Rigging sees the expansion as a win for the entire waterfront: "The fact that Lunenburg Shipyard is taking on this huge investment, it means more work, it means continued work in the future. It’s big." As fishing and leisure boats grow in size, modern infrastructure is essential—even in a heritage setting.

Big Boat Shed, a community partner, praised the shipyard's collaborative approach: "This announcement will mean a lot to anyone in Maritime trades, in Lunenburg County and beyond."

Financial Support Likely Needed

Phase 1 construction could begin next spring, pending financial support from federal and provincial governments. Boutilier is optimistic, noting the shipyard's qualifications for defence contracts. "To do something of this magnitude is a new one for us. We’re definitely going to need the support of some of these entities," he said.

The expansion will increase capacity for boating, defence, and fishing, creating more local jobs for Nova Scotians. Boutilier assures that the project will respect Lunenburg's history: "It’s about preserving the tradition and the history but also modernizing. So you’ll see a traditional-looking building but inside it’s going to be a lot of new technology and modern methods."