Vancouver Maritime Museum
Step aboard the historic St. Roch and explore the rich maritime history of Vancouver and the Pacific Northwest.
Located in scenic Vanier Park, the Vancouver Maritime Museum is the city's home for all things nautical. The museum's centerpiece is the magnificent St. Roch, a historic RCMP Arctic exploration vessel built right here in British Columbia. This remarkable wooden ship is a National Historic Site, and you can only see it firsthand by visiting the museum. If you have any interest in ships and maritime history, be sure to put this fascinating museum on your must-see list.
Why Visit the Vancouver Maritime Museum?
- Explore the St. Roch: Step aboard and explore the legendary RCMP schooner, the first vessel to traverse the treacherous and unknown waters of the Northwest Passage and, a couple of years later in 1944, to completely circumnavigate North America. Amazing stuff for a ship made entirely of wood.
- Rich Maritime History: Discover Vancouver's deep connection to the sea through exhibits on coastal trade, the fishing industry, and naval history.
- Family-Friendly Fun: The Children's Maritime Discovery Centre offers a hands-on play area for younger visitors.
- Beautiful Location: Situated in Vanier Park, it's a perfect stop on a scenic walk with beautiful views of the city and English Bay.
What to See & Do
- The St. Roch National Historic Site: The main attraction. Walk the decks and explore the cabins of this amazing wooden ship that conquered the Arctic.
- Model Ships Gallery: Admire an incredible collection of intricate and detailed models of historic ships.
- Outdoor Exhibits: See the NASA undersea research vessel Ben Franklin and the boiler of the Beaver—the first steamship in the Pacific Northwest.
- Changing Exhibitions: The museum always has something new to see with a rotating schedule of temporary exhibits and films.
Food & Drink Options
- The museum has a small vending machine area for snacks and drinks.
- There are no cafes in Vanier Park, but it's a perfect spot for a picnic.
- A variety of cafes and restaurants can be found a short walk away on Cornwall Avenue or over the Burrard Bridge in downtown.
Pro Tips & Local Insights
- Check for Events: The museum hosts talks, workshops, and family events. Check their website for the schedule.
- Combine Your Visit: The Maritime Museum is located right next to the Museum of Vancouver and the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, making it easy to visit all three.
- Take the Ferry: For a scenic approach, take the False Creek Ferries from Granville Island or downtown to the dock at Vanier Park.
Nearby Attractions (Transit-Friendly)
- Museum of Vancouver
- H.R. MacMillan Space Centre
- Kitsilano Beach: A popular sandy beach just a short walk west of the park.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesVancouver Maritime Museum Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Address: 1905 Ogden Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1A1, Canada
Phone: (604) 257-8300
Official Website: Vancouver Maritime Museum
Vancouver Maritime Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5
This would be my favourite museum out of the 3 in the that location. There was a lot more to see than I expected. Going onboard the St. Roch boat was really cool. If you like scale model boats you’ll be in heaven. They are incredible. Lots of things to interact with. Plenty of history to read. Absolutely loved it.
Craig Harrell - a month ago
My first time here. Free admission today because of Family Day and glad we came. It is way more interesting and expansive a museum than it looks. I found it all to be very interesting. The wait to get onto the RCMP ship took a while even though we arrived only half-an-hour past opening, but it was worth it. The other display rooms past the gift shop are also worth checking out.
Sandra Chan - 4 months ago
Fantastic place for people (especially children) who love all things to do with seafaring exploration! There are lots of interactive spaces, which certainly help kids engage and learn :)
The highlight of the museum is definitely the massive RCMPolice St Roch!
Edith Wu - 2 months ago
I visited on the first Sunday of the month which is when admission is by donation.
It took under an hour to visit, including a self guided tour on the St Roch which was very cool.
There were also a number of people there all, which made it feel a little rushed when trying to look at things in narrow passages.
It was very interesting, but on the smaller side. I would have thought there would be more on types of boats, uses, etc. for a city by the ocean. Not sure if I would go if it was full price.
Laura Ye - a month ago
When I went there, the exhibit was okay.
They didn't allow me to bring a bottle of water in. I understand if you bring coffee, cream soda or ice cream that you can damage something by spilling it.
I asked the lady if there is a water fountain, she told me no, but I can buy a bottle of water there?! Really?!
Another lady came and introduced herself, she is the manager and she agreed that I can bring the bottle with me, but I can't open it?!
If I spend for example 2 hours inside I wouldn't be able to get a sip of water.
Ridiculous!
Canadian BC - 4 months ago
Directions
| SkyTrain Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Expo Line | Burrard Station | 8 Minutes |
How to get to Vancouver Maritime Museum by SkyTrain
From downtown Vancouver, catch the #2 Macdonald bus southbound on Burrard Street (e.g., from the stop near Burrard SkyTrain Station). It's a short ride across the Burrard Bridge.
Get off on Cornwall Avenue at Cypress Street. Walk north on Chestnut Street for a few minutes into Vanier Park. The museum is the distinctive A-frame building.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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Accommodations near Vancouver Maritime Museum:
Photo Gallery
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Children love exploring the exhiibits at the Vancouver Maritime Museum Photo courtesy Vancouver Maritime Museum -
Historic St. Roch RCMP vessel at the Vancouver Maritime Museum cc licensed photo by Napa -
Exterior of the Vancouver Maritime Museum -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Arbron - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: waferboard - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: waferboard - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Ruth and Dave - cc license via Flickr
