It may be some time before the Persephone is back on display, but the public can get a look at another famous Beachcombers boat later this month.
The 2025 Vancouver International Boat Show (Jan. 29 to Feb. 2) will feature the jet boat driven by Relic (Robert Clothier) in the CBC show, which Sunshine Coaster Deano Fatovic retrieved and started restoring last summer.
“The Beachcombers was one of my favourite shows growing up, and I always dreamed of owning the Jet Boat,” said Fatovic in a press release.
Last summer, Fatovic told Coast Reporter after The Beachcombers ended, the boats used in the show over the years, including Relic's HiBaller I and II, were eventually sold and largely forgotten about, with the exception of locals, fans and the many cast and crew members who worked on the series. It took a decade of searching, but Fatovic finally located and returned the jet boat to Gibsons, where the CBC TV series was filmed, last year.
The jet boat Hiballer II will be on display at BC Place during the boat show.
“The Beachcombers was more than a television series; it was a celebration of the people and places that make BC unique,” said show manager Amanda Henschell in the release. “We’re thrilled to honour that legacy by showcasing Relic’s boat at this year’s show.”
More information about the 2025 Vancouver International Boat Show, taking place indoors at BC Place and on the water at Granville Island, is available at vancouverboatshow.ca, including ticket details.
Meanwhile, those looking for information on the Persephone’s restoration efforts can visit the Town of Gibsons’ information page.
In other recent Beachcombers news, the public will soon once again be able to grab a coffee at Molly's Reach as the well-established Black Bean Cafe is relocating to the iconic location.
