Vancouver Maritime Museum is a maritime history museum at 1905 Ogden Avenue in Vanier Park, Kitsilano Point, on the south shore of English Bay in Vancouver, British Columbia. Opened in 1959, it is built around the St. Roch, the RCMP schooner that became the first vessel to sail the Northwest Passage from west to east (1940–1942). The ship is now a National Historic Site. Travelers come for Arctic exploration history, Pacific coast seafaring stories, and harbour views from the Vanier Park waterfront.
What to Expect at Vancouver Maritime Museum
The museum’s centrepiece is the St. Roch. The wooden schooner was built in North Vancouver in 1928 and is housed inside the museum’s distinctive A-frame building. Visitors can walk the deck and look into the cramped crew quarters. The museum is currently running an Inuit-led revitalization of the St. Roch exhibit, which brings Inuit perspectives on Arctic travel into the ship’s story.
Beyond the ship, the galleries cover Pacific and Arctic waterways, Indigenous seafaring traditions, ship models, navigation instruments, and port history. The research library and archives hold charts, photographs, and documents. Outside, the Heritage Harbour moors historic vessels, and The Blue Cabin is a restored float house that now hosts an artist residency. A gift shop sells nautical books and souvenirs.
- St. Roch National Historic Site: The RCMP Arctic schooner that sailed the Northwest Passage in both directions.
- Children’s Gallery: Hands-on space where kids can dress up, steer, and explore the sea.
- Heritage Harbour: Historic boats moored at the Vanier Park waterfront.
- The Blue Cabin: A restored float house now used as an artist residency.
- Library and Collections: Maritime archives, charts, and historic photography.
Vancouver Maritime Museum at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 1905 Ogden Ave, Vancouver, BC V6J 1A3, Canada |
| Neighborhood / Area | Vanier Park, Kitsilano Point |
| Operating Hours | Daily 10AM–5PM |
| Admission / Price Range | Paid admission ($$). The Vanier Park Pass saves over 20% on combined entry. |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 1.5 to 2 hours |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | Bus routes 2 and 22 to Cornwall Ave; False Creek ferry to Maritime Museum dock; paid parking in Vanier Park lots |
| Official Website & Phone | vanmaritime.com, +1 604-257-8300 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrive at the 10AM opening for the quietest time aboard the St. Roch, before school groups arrive. Weekday afternoons are also calm. You can buy tickets online through the official hours and tickets page. The Vanier Park Pass is the best value if you plan to see multiple attractions. Buses stop on Cornwall Avenue, about a 5-minute walk away. In summer, small False Creek ferries dock beside the museum.
The main galleries are on one level with step-free access. Some areas on the ship’s deck are narrow, so check the museum’s accessibility page before visiting with a wheelchair. Within a short walk you’ll find the Museum of Vancouver and H.R. MacMillan Space Centre. Kitsilano Beach is about 10 minutes away, and Granville Island‘s market and restaurants are about 15 minutes along the seawall.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the museum’s hours?
The museum is open daily from 10AM to 5PM. Weekday mornings are the quietest time to visit.
How much are tickets?
Admission is paid and moderately priced. The Vanier Park Pass bundles three attractions at a discount. Check the official website for current rates.
How long should I spend?
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Add an hour if you want to walk the Heritage Harbour and the seawall.
Is it good for kids?
Yes. The Children’s Gallery and the chance to board the St. Roch make it a strong pick for families.
When planning your Vancouver travel guide or comparing verified attractions and museums in Vancouver, pair this stop with standout local spots including Roedde House Museum, Grant Street Pier, VanDusen Botanical Garden, and Hadden Park (nearby).
