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 1A3, Canada
Phone: (604) 257-8300
Official Website: Vancouver Maritime Museum
Vancouver Maritime Museum Reviews
Rated out of 5![]()
I had the opportunity to visit the Vancouver Maritime Museum this evening through a Yelp event.
My family and I joined a guided tour of the museum, which was both informative and engaging. We learned about the history of the region and the traditions and way of life of the Inuit people.
The tour was led by a museum staff member, who provided fascinating insights into the exhibits and the historic vessel on display. After the guided portion, we were able to board the ship and explore it on our own.
In addition, the museum is located right next to the beach, offering beautiful views and a pleasant atmosphere. The great weather and scenic surroundings were added bonuses that made the visit even more enjoyable.
Kit Yee Yu - 2 months ago
Came here with some out of town family and expected truly not much at all, but it was so fun and interesting!
Loved being able to board the boat and see how they used to travel, loved all of the history, and my four year old LOVED the recently renovated kids play area! 100% recommend this place on a rainy day if your kids just need to play somewhere different! She still talks about it ♡
Brittany Schroeder - 3 months ago
An out-of-the-way but fabulous collection of maritime history everyone should see, especially significant to Vancouver.
Well worth a few hours and days if you want to read everything.
The obvious highlight is the actual restored ST. ROCH RCMP schooner inside the museum. I would seriously suggest to make sure you sign up for a timed entrance to it as soon as you pay your admission.
Although this is mostly an adult attraction they have provided a "maritime play area" at the back of the museum.
Doug W - 6 months ago
The Vancouver Maritime Museum is located in one of Vancouver’s most beautiful and upscale neighborhoods, making it a great place to spend a day exploring. One of the best features is their “Pay What You Can” admission on the first Sunday of every month, which makes the museum accessible to everyone.
The visit begins with a nice gift shop at the entrance, and the museum itself is packed with fascinating information about maritime history. The exhibits are well organized and informative, covering the rich maritime heritage of the region.
The highlight for me was being able to board and explore the historic ship on display. Walking through the actual vessel and seeing what life was like inside was a unique and memorable experience. Overall, it’s an enjoyable and educational attraction that’s well worth a visit.
Sharon Buni - 2 months ago
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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
Click&Go Map and Route Finder with public transit, walking, driving or cycling directions. Get up-to-the-minute transit times for your route.
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: 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

