Mastering Marine Excellence: The Story of Daigle Welding and Marine
In the heart of Campbell River, British Columbia, stands a name synonymous with precision, craftsmanship, and innovation in the marine industry — Daigle Welding and Marine. For decades, this company has carved its place as a premier builder of custom aluminium boats and a trusted name for marine fabrication. Founded by the visionary Steve Daigle, the business has grown from humble beginnings into an internationally recognised manufacturer under the well-known brand EagleCraft.
This article delves into the origins, achievements, and future of Daigle Welding and Marine, exploring its commitment to quality, the leadership of Steve Daigle, and its role in shaping the marine industry of British Columbia and beyond.
The Origins of Daigle Welding
Early Foundations
The story begins in 1985, when Steve Daigle, a skilled welder with a passion for the sea, founded a small welding and fabrication shop in Prince Rupert. Initially, the business catered to local fishing and commercial industries, repairing and fabricating essential marine equipment. It quickly became apparent that Steve’s expertise in metalwork and understanding of marine needs could be channelled into something greater.
Relocation and Expansion
As the demand for more sophisticated and larger projects grew, Steve relocated the company to Campbell River. This move was strategic: Campbell River’s location on Vancouver Island placed the business at the crossroads of commercial fishing fleets, coastal tourism, and marine transport services. It was here that the company evolved from a general welding service into a specialist in custom aluminium vessel construction.
Daigle Welding and Marine: The Rise of EagleCraft
Building a Recognised Brand
Under Steve Daigle’s guidance, the company began designing and producing a range of custom-built vessels tailored to specific customer requirements. The EagleCraft brand emerged as the company’s flagship identity, representing durability, craftsmanship, and tailored design. Each EagleCraft boat was — and still is — constructed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring it meets the exacting demands of its intended purpose.
Types of Vessels Produced
Daigle Welding and Marine’s portfolio includes:
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Patrol and Enforcement Vessels – Used by harbour authorities, coastguards, and marine enforcement agencies.
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Commercial Workboats – Built for freight, crew transfer, and heavy-duty coastal operations.
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Tourism and Passenger Boats – Including whale-watching boats, water taxis, and sightseeing vessels.
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Luxury Recreational Craft – Custom yachts and sport fishing boats tailored for private owners.
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Research and Survey Vessels – Designed for marine science organisations and government agencies.
The Leadership of Steve Daigle
Visionary Approach
Steve Daigle’s success came from more than welding expertise; it stemmed from his ability to foresee trends in marine needs and his dedication to quality. From the outset, Steve believed that customers deserved a boat built not just to last, but to excel in every condition. His focus on bespoke solutions allowed Daigle Welding and Marine to develop strong relationships with both commercial and private clients.
Transition in Ownership
In 2019, the company became part of the Bolton Marine Group. This acquisition brought additional resources and opportunities while maintaining the skilled workforce and operational independence. Steve Daigle remained involved during the transition, ensuring that the company’s values and quality standards were preserved.
Craftsmanship at the Core
Skilled Workforce
Daigle Welding and Marine is home to a diverse team of over 30 professionals, including welders, naval architects, rigging technicians, cabinet makers, and marine electricians. This multidisciplinary team allows the company to handle every aspect of boat building in-house, from initial concept drawings to final sea trials.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
The workshop at 2177 Island Highway, Campbell River, is equipped with advanced welding stations, overhead cranes, and a dedicated rigging area. This setup enables the production of vessels up to 60 feet in length with a precision that ensures safety, performance, and longevity.
Designing for Performance and Safety
Tailored to Client Needs
Every Daigle Welding and Marine project begins with a collaborative design phase. Clients work closely with the in-house naval architect to outline their specific needs, whether for speed, fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, or cargo capacity.
Durability and Seaworthiness
Given the challenging waters of the Pacific Northwest, vessels are engineered for stability, strength, and reliability. Aluminium construction provides a perfect balance of lightness and resilience, making these boats ideal for commercial operators and private owners alike.
Achievements and Notable Projects
Building for Authorities and Industry
Over the years, Daigle Welding and Marine has delivered boats to harbour authorities, government agencies, and industrial clients across Canada and beyond. These vessels often incorporate advanced navigation systems, high-performance engines, and specialised equipment to meet the rigorous demands of their sectors.
The 39′ Pilot/Patrol Vessel
A recent highlight is the contract to design and build a 39-foot Pilot/Patrol vessel for the Nanaimo Port Authority. This project demonstrates the company’s continued relevance and ability to meet the most demanding operational requirements.
Reputation and Community Presence
Local Recognition
While Daigle Welding and Marine enjoys an international reputation, it remains deeply rooted in the Campbell River community. Locals recognise the brand not just for its boats, but also for its skilled trades employment opportunities and contributions to the local economy.
Customer Feedback
Clients often praise the company for its professionalism, transparent communication, and after-sales support. Repeat business is common, especially from commercial operators who value the reliability of EagleCraft vessels.
Future of Daigle Welding and Marine
Innovation in Marine Design
With a proven history and a skilled team, Daigle Welding and Marine is well-positioned to explore innovations in propulsion, sustainability, and vessel efficiency. As electric and hybrid marine systems become more viable, the company is expected to integrate these technologies into future builds.
Global Reach
While most of its customers are in North America, Daigle Welding and Marine’s reputation is attracting interest from international clients. Expansion into new markets may see EagleCraft vessels operating in diverse environments worldwide.
Visiting Daigle Welding and Marine
For those in Campbell River, the company’s premises are conveniently located in the same complex as a Chevron service station along the Island Highway. This central position makes it easy for clients, suppliers, and marine enthusiasts to visit the workshop and see first-hand the craftsmanship in progress.
Conclusion
Daigle Welding and Marine is more than a welding shop; it is a centre of marine innovation and craftsmanship built on the vision of Steve Daigle. From its beginnings in a small coastal town to becoming a major force in the custom aluminium boat industry, the company’s journey is a testament to skill, dedication, and adaptability.
Whether crafting a rugged workboat for challenging seas or a sleek recreational vessel for leisure cruising, Daigle Welding and Marine continues to set the standard for quality. In an industry where reliability can mean the difference between success and failure, this Campbell River institution remains a trusted partner for clients across the marine spectrum.
