Vancouver Maritime Museum

Overview

The Vancouver Maritime Museum in Vanier Park celebrates the maritime heritage of the Pacific Coast and the Arctic. Its centrepiece is the St. Roch, a Royal Canadian Mounted Police schooner that was the first vessel to navigate the Northwest Passage in both directions.

Highlights

• RCMP St. Roch: Walk through the beautifully restored 1928 Arctic patrol vessel displayed inside a purpose-built A-frame gallery.
• Children's Maritime Discovery Centre: Hands-on area where kids can pilot a tugboat simulator.
• Heritage Harbour: An outdoor collection of historic boats including a 1927 seiner.

History

Founded in 1959, the museum was built around the St. Roch after the ship was retired. Captain Henry Larsen's voyages between 1940 and 1944 made Canadian maritime history, and the vessel is now a National Historic Site.

Visitor Tips

• Free Thursdays: Admission is free on the first Thursday of every month.
• Kayak Access: The museum's dock is accessible by kayak from False Creek.
• Duration: 45–90 minutes.