Vancouver Maritime Museum in Vanier Park
The Vancouver Maritime Museum, located in scenic Vanier Park, is one of the city’s top-rated indoor attractions—especially ideal on a rainy day. This engaging museum explores the rich maritime history of the Pacific Northwest and Arctic, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in boats, exploration, and nautical heritage.
Explore Vancouver’s Maritime Legacy
Situated between Kitsilano Beach, the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, and the Museum of Vancouver, the Maritime Museum offers a fascinating journey through Canada’s maritime past. Its star attraction is the St. Roch, a historic RCMP Arctic patrol vessel and the first ship to navigate the Northwest Passage west to east and circumnavigate North America.
Housed indoors, the St. Roch is fully accessible—you can climb aboard and explore the galley and crew quarters. Shipbuilding fans will also appreciate that this iconic vessel was built in North Vancouver’s Shipyards District, an area still known for its historical shipyard infrastructure.
What to Expect During Your Visit
This medium-sized maritime museum takes about 60 to 90 minutes to explore. It features a large collection of detailed model ships, interactive and family-friendly displays, hands-on learning stations for kids, and access to the legendary St. Roch ship.
Whether you’re a casual visitor or a model ship enthusiast, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Location: 1905 Ogden Avenue, Vancouver, BC
Vancouver Maritime Museum STEAM Summer Camps
For families with young explorers, the museum runs VMM STEAM Camps in July and August. These week-long day camps are designed for children ages 6 to 11 and focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM), all through a maritime lens.
Camp Examples
- By the Sea Shore: Learn about the Burrard Inlet and Indigenous coastal stewardship.
- Deep Sea Discovery: Dive into the mysteries of the ocean’s darkest depths.
- Sailor Skills: Learn real-life sailor techniques, from knot tying to ship maintenance.
- Coastal Creatures: Explore the marine biodiversity of the Pacific Northwest.
When offered, these hands-on camps usually include indoor and outdoor activities and are known for being both fun and educational.
Light Up the Harbour – A Festive Family Event
Each December, the museum hosts Light Up the Harbour, a free community event that marks the start of the holiday season. Held at Heritage Harbour, the evening includes beautifully decorated historic boats illuminated in festive lights. There’s also a “boat ballet” by False Creek Ferries. Free hot chocolate is usually available and Christmas carols are performed by local school choirs.
Visitor Tips for the Vancouver Maritime Museum
Tip #1: Save the St. Roch for the end of your visit—it’s a great finale to your experience.
Tip #2: Don’t miss Heritage Harbour just outside the museum. Walk along the docks to admire beautifully preserved vintage vessels.
Tip #3: After the museum, enjoy a walk along Vanier Park’s waterfront for stunning views of the Vancouver skyline—weather permitting.
Tip #4: For ideas of other places to take your kids to in Vancouver, see our article about Metro Vancouver’s Best Children’s Events and Attractions.