Nanaimo Port's cruise champion Dumas to retire

'After nearly 40 years of working in the marine industry across Canada, it is time to dedicate more time to my family and personal pursuits,' Dumas said.

He called the past nine years at the helm of Nanaimo port 'the most enjoyable and gratifying time of my career. I am pleased to have been part of the NPA’s transformation from a forest product distribution centre to a multimodal port operation.'

Besides his considerable accomplishments in the multimodal area, Dumas has championed the cruise business.

'Bernie understood the importance of collaborating with local stakeholders to create a solid Central Vancouver Island product attractive to the cruise industry,' according to Mike McFadden, president, MAC Maritime, a Florida-based consultancy.

Under Dumas's leadership, McFadden said, the Nanaimo Port Authority received the largest ship ever deployed to the Pacific Northwest/Alaska region, Explorer of the Seas, and is attracting more luxury brands for future seasons.

'It’s a pleasure to work with Bernie and his fine staff at the NPA,' McFadden added, 'and I wish him the very best on his retirement.'

NPA board chair Moira Jenkins lauded Dumas for his vision and innovation. 'His many accomplishments reflect his exceptional commitment. He has led the port’s transformation from a forest products distribution centre to a multimodal port operation, establishing Nanaimo as the main marine gateway for trade to and from the island,' Jenkins said.

Thanks to that vision, and with the introduction of DP World and containerization, the port's short-sea shipping service now connects Vancouver Island to new global markets for island manufacturers. Jenkins noted the port chief also has been instrumental in developing the Marine Domain Awareness System, a safety program that's considered one of the best in Canada.

For his part, Dumas thanked the board, customers, the community and his 'loyal and hardworking staff,' crediting them as 'truly the driving force behind the success of the port.

'I am proud to have been part of the federal port system in Canada and I look forward to watching the NPA’s future progress and growth,' he said.

Dumas and wife Shelley plan to remain in Nanaimo.

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