BC’s coastal histories will be better kept through a new initiative by the Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC).
MMBC has announced the creation of the Western Canada Heritage Vessel Registry (WCHVR), a project aimed at establishing better kept histories and timelines for the iconic vessels that have traversed the coast in years past.
“Anyone with an interest in maritime history and vessels of all kinds—our floating heritage on the coast—has cause for celebration on the horizon,” said Wendy Moreton, MMBC board chair.
Moreton added that the maritime community has been calling for initiatives like this to commemorate the impact of maritime heritage on the coast.
“Like the vessels themselves, these histories would be gone forever were it not for the dedication and passion of the vessel owners,” she continued.
“These are incredible stories of design and craft, of work and recreation, and of industry and transportation systems that connect Western Canada to the world.”
The WCHVR’s will have an impact on the maritime community by encouraging conservation on heritage vessels and preserving their histories for future generations to enjoy and research.
Some ships and boats that will be included on this registry have helped develop BC’s economies, cultures and communities.
According to Robert Allan, WCHVR Committee member and project donor, this type of initiative isn’t a new one.
“Such registries exist in virtually every major maritime country, except Canada,” he stated.
The registry’s inaugural application period for heritage vessel owners will open in early 2026.
