Museum Wharves
History at Halifax Waterfront
The wharves at the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic are home to two of Canada's most historically significant vessels. CSS Acadia, launched in 1913, was the first ship purpose-built to survey Canada's northern waters. She served the Royal Canadian Navy during both world wars and remains the only surviving vessel from the 1917 Halifax Explosion—she was acting as a guard ship in Bedford Basin when the disaster struck.
Moored alongside is HMCS Sackville, the last surviving corvette of the 123 built in Canada and the United Kingdom during World War II. These small but mighty escort vessels played a crucial role protecting Allied convoys during the Battle of the Atlantic, and Halifax served as a vital assembly point for those dangerous crossings. Designated Canada's Naval Memorial in 1985, Sackville stands as a tribute to the sailors who served.
Beyond these permanent residents, the museum wharves welcome a rotating cast of visiting vessels throughout the year—from majestic tall ships to traditionally built small craft. There's always something new to discover along this historic stretch of Halifax's waterfront.
