KU'ULAKAI
AN ORIGINAL HISTORIC EXPERIENCE
Est. 1944
Eight Decades of Salt & Sea
Built in 1944 for the United States Army during WW2, this ship is rich in history and remains much in its original state, offering a unique opportunity to see this in person.
Today, she rests in the heart of Port Alberni, BC — one of Vancouver Island's most celebrated fishing towns — where her new owners are breathing new life into her storied decks. The vision: to open Ku'ulakai as a one-of-a-kind floating accommodation, honouring her past while welcoming a new chapter.
1944
Laid down as a wooden-hulled design 293-A tug named LT-465 at Northeastern Shipbuilding in Quincy, MA. Deployed along the U.S. East Coast during the tail end of World War II.
1946
Decommissioned after the war and sold to Mobile Wrecking & Towing Co. in Alabama, where she was renamed the Ernest F. Ladd.
1951
Acquired by Young & Gore Ltd. and Island Tug & Barge Ltd. of Vancouver, beginning her long Canadian commercial era on the Pacific coast.
Today
Moored in Port Alberni, BC, Ku'ulakai is being lovingly restored as a one-of-a-kind floating accommodation — one of only four Miki-class tugs still afloat, and the only one in Canada.
Built in 1944. Still making history.
Sleep Aboard
Sleep Where History Was Made
Imagine waking up aboard an 80-year-old working tugboat — original woodwork, brass fittings, ocean air and amazing views. Ku'ulakai will offer an original historic experience in the heart of Port Alberni.
Historic Vessel
Original 1944 woodwork, brass fittings, and maritime details preserved throughout.
Amazing Location
Moored in Port Alberni, a beautiful coastal community, popular for it's amazing fishing and breathtaking views and landscapes.
One-of-a-Kind
There are only four known surviving Miki-class wooden tugboats left afloat from the original fleet of 61 built for the U.S. Army during World War II. LT - 465 renamed "Ku'ulakai" is the only one in Canada.
Ku'ulakai
1944
Register your interest and be among the first to know when Ku'ulakai opens her doors — or rather, her gangway.