The Experience
Located at Vanier Park, the Vancouver Maritime Museum brings the history of the sea to life. It is home to the historic St. Roch, the first vessel to navigate the Northwest Passage in both directions.
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The centerpiece of the museum is the fully restored St. Roch, which visitors can step aboard and explore.
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Detailed exhibits showcase the rich history of Indigenous seafaring and early European exploration.
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The Children’s Gallery offers hands-on activities that make maritime history engaging for young explorers.
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Beautiful views of False Creek and the North Shore mountains frame the museum's waterfront location.
Fun Facts
The St. Roch was the first ship to circumnavigate North America.
Best Suited For
The Crowd
- 🔹History Buffs
- 🔹Families With Young Kids
- 🔹Nautical Enthusiasts
- 🧓Seniors
The Occasion
- 🔹Historical Learning
- 🔹Seafaring Discovery
- 🔹Quiet Exploration
- 🔹Community Visit
Plan Your Visit
Best Times to Visit
When: First Sunday of the month (pay-what-you-can) or Thursday evening for late-night opening until 8 PM
Peak season: Summer (June–August) when Heritage Harbour is most active
Insider Tips
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First Sunday = Pay What You Can — the most affordable way to visit.
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St. Roch revitalization in progress — check the website before visiting to confirm what's accessible.
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Heritage Harbour is free and open year-round — walk the outdoor docks to see vintage wooden boats at no cost.
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Combine with Vanier Park museums — the Museum of Vancouver and Space Centre are steps away. Plan a half-day museum crawl.
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Thursday late nights — the museum stays open until 8 PM on Thursdays, the only extended-hours day.
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Don't miss the bone model ship — a model of the French warship Vengeur du Peuple, built around 1800 by French prisoners of war.
Visiting with Kids
The "Children’s Maritime Discovery Centre" features a real tugboat wheelhouse for kids to explore.
What to Bring
- 🎒Camera — the A-frame interior with the St. Roch is photogenic; Heritage Harbour has waterfront views
- 🎒Layers — Vanier Park is exposed to ocean winds
- 🎒Comfortable shoes — museum has multiple levels; Heritage Harbour involves outdoor walking
- 🎒Snacks/water — limited food options nearby
- 🎒Transit fare or bike — well-served by bus and cycling paths
Admission
Adult
$22.00
Seniors $17.50
Youth $17.50
Children Free (5 and under, max 2 per paying adult)
Family $48.50 (2 adults + up to 4 children)
Indigenous (self-identifying): Free. First Sunday: Pay What You Can. Prices + GST.
Buy Tickets →Know Before You Go
Location
Getting Here
🚇 Transit
Take the False Creek Ferry or Aquabus directly to the Heritage Harbour dock. Alternatively, take the #2 bus to Cornwall and Cypress.
🚗 Parking
Large paid parking lot directly in front of the museum in Vanier Park. Usually plenty of space outside of major festival dates.