- Our Story – Est.’d 1930
Fueling False Creek for Nearly a Century
Long before False Creek became the vibrant waterfront it is today, this stretch of shoreline was already hard at work.
In 1930, a marine fuel dock was established at this very location by Home Oil, at a time when False Creek was the industrial heart of Vancouver. The dock—known for decades as the Home Marine Station—quickly became a trusted stop for the working vessels that kept the city moving.
Tugs, fishing boats, log boom boats, and commercial workboats lined up at the dock, alongside early recreational traffic. Captains relied on more than just fuel here—they relied on experience, local knowledge, and service they could count on in all conditions.
Generations of Trusted Marine Service
As Vancouver evolved, so did the dock.
In the 1980s, Home Oil became Esso, and the marine station continued its long tradition of exceptional service. Through changing tides, technologies, and traffic, the dock remained a constant—serving professional mariners and pleasure craft alike, day after day, season after season.
By the time False Creek began its transformation from an industrial waterway to a mixed-use harbour of marinas, tourism, and recreation, the fuel dock had already built a reputation measured in decades.
The Next Chapter: False Creek Fuels
In 2011, the baton was passed once again—this time to False Creek Fuels. The dock was completely renovated, modernizing fuel systems, safety infrastructure, and service capabilities while preserving the character of this historic site. In 2022, the dock was named after the late John N. Short, whose decades-long career in the marine industry—and steadfast commitment to the working waterfront—were instrumental in ensuring the dock remained open and operational for generations to come. Today, he is quietly represented in our logo as Honest John—a symbol of the steady hands, hard work, and reliability that have defined this dock since the earliest days of False Creek.
With deep respect for the history of the site, False Creek Fuels took over operations with a clear goal:
to preserve the legacy of dependable marine fueling while modernizing service, safety, and support for today’s boating community. Quite simply, we are dedicated to delivering marine fuels and parts reliably every day of the year (except Christmas day)!
Today, we proudly serve:
- Recreational boaters and yachts
- Commercial vessels and charter operators
- Water taxis, tour boats, and local marine businesses
All from the same historic location that has been fueling Vancouver’s waterfront for nearly a century. Our dock is configured to efficiently serve numerous boats at a time, and features 12 nozzles with high speed and low speed options.
Rooted in History. Focused on the Future.
False Creek Fuels is more than a fuel dock—it’s a continuation of a maritime tradition that began almost 100 years ago.
We’re proud to be part of False Creek’s past, present, and future, and we look forward to serving the next generation of mariners who pass through these waters.
From working boats to weekend cruisers—this dock has always been here when you need it.
Come in to check out our fuel dock store; its packed with great marine gear, parts, fishing tackle, bait, ice, and snacks. Check out our great store selection online.
False Creek Fuels is centrally located in Vancouver at the entrance to False Creek – we service all types of vessels, including sailboats, power boats, commercial fishing vessels, tugs, water taxis, and government vessels. False Creek Fuels is a long-time supporter and member of Boating BC.
Our Mission Statement is Simple: “False Creek Fuels shall provide the boating public with a marine fuel service that offers boaters unparalleled service with a can-do attitude, great convenience by ensuring we always stock products that boaters want, and by offering great value”.