Maritime Museum of BC in Victoria, BC

Most people will never experience the thrill and challenge of making a living from the sea, but the Maritime Museum of British Columbia in Victoria can give visitors a good idea of what it must be like.   Located on the often fog covered Pacific Coast, British Columbia was always the beginning or end of sea voyages.  It is this atmosphere and experience the Maritime Museum attempts to preserve.

Many visitors enjoy seeing the fascinating navigation instruments on display, while others are thrilled to learn about the geography and weather of this region.  Pirates were a key part of BC history, though not as large a part as in some other areas of the globe.  Imagination has helped increase the interest in these mysterious men and their frightening weapons.

Located at 28 Bastion Square in Victoria, the Maritime Museum of British Columbia helps tell the story of this region from the time the Hudson's Bay Company operated in this area (1840s).  In fact, the trading post established by this company has grown into the city of Victoria.

Some of the things that influence the growth of the city and contributed to its importance as a port were: miners heading for the gold fields needed supplies; the Royal Navy had a strong presence in the city and on its port; shipbuilding was an important industry, especially the repair station found here; fishing and whaling were key industries in the region. Exhibits include a reproduction crow's nest, an actual sailing vessel, engines used for power on later ships.
   
More information about the Maritime Museum of British Columbia is available by calling (250) 385-4222, ext. 101 or ext. 104.