Maritime Museum
A proud and interesting marine history.
Stop by and Visit
Ladysmith has a proud and interesting marine history, and the Ladysmith Maritime Society (LMS) is committed to capturing and sharing that waterfront history with our communities on both sides of the harbour and with our visitors.
When LMS was established in 1985, one of its goals was to build a maritime museum. In 2007 that dream became a reality with our floating museum which shares our maritime history with authentic artifacts and nautical displays. We were honoured with a BC Heritage Award in 2008 and 2013. The Maritime Museum is located in a blue boat sheds on the main Visitor Dock.
Here you’ll find interesting displays of local maritime history, marine communication and safety, shipwright tools and the Rainbows’ Skiff dinghy.
We are fortunate to have two large marine radios made by Spilsbury & Tindall and Spilsbury & Hepburn. Another display shows two complete sets of shipwright tools and documents from Vancouver Island shipwrights Frederick Swift and Larry Chattel. Interesting old anchors, outboard motors, winches and other nautical artifacts bring back memories for visitors.
The Rainbows’ 16-foot skiff dinghy, dating back to 1898, is showcased in the Museum. This beautifully built skiff dinghy may be the last vessel remaining from the transferral of the Royal Navy base in Esquimalt to the Dominion Government in 1905.
Venture inside an historical Captain’s Cabin, meticulously recreated by one of our invaluable & talented volunteers, complete with marine documents and books, writing desk and bed.
Upcoming Events
Discover Maritime Heritage with the Ladysmith Maritime Society
Ahoy, Ladysmith community! It’s that time of the year when we throw open the doors of our maritime haven and welcome you to a day filled with nautical wonders. Join us on Monday, 19 February 2024, from 10:00 am to 03:00 pm, as we share the maritime heritage that makes our town truly special.
Keep In Touch
Sign up for our Monthly Newsletter
Keep up to date with events, news and fundraising activities by signing up for our monthly newsletter (on or around the 15th), and the occasional "newsflash". You'll need to "double opt-in" and you can unsubscribe at any time.