HMCS Sackville — Attraction in Halifax

I paid $10 for the ticket and donated $50

Of all the moments from my visit to the Flower-class corvette today, one stands out with profound warmth and significance: an elderly volunteer, with eyes that held stories of a different time, gifted me a ribbon embroidered with "HMCS SACKVILLE."

I immediately tied it around my head—a simple act that felt like a personal vow to remember. It became a direct, tangible link to the past.

That past is one of immense sacrifice. As I stood on the deck, I wasn't just a tourist; I was a witness to a history that cost the world dearly. I think we have to never forget the price of victory in WWII.

To defeat a common enemy, my homeland of China suffered over 35 million casualties, a staggering number that speaks to a depth of loss beyond comprehension.

Here in Canada, over 45,000 brave souls gave their lives in the war effort, each one a hero who left a void in a family and a community.

This history is why, as a long-time player of World of Warships, my appreciation for these vessels is more than just digital.

My favourite ship to command is the X103 Le Terrible—a destroyer whose breathtaking speed I've always admired.

But standing here today, that virtual admiration transformed into real, solemn respect. The speed of a ship like Le Terrible wasn't just for show; it was for survival, for hunting, for protecting the very freedoms those 45,000 Canadians and 35 million Chinese died for.

The ribbon on my head, the corvette beneath my feet, and the memory of the digital warships I command—all converged into a single, powerful feeling: the deepest and most humble gratitude.

This visit was a powerful reminder to me that behind every ship, whether preserved in a harbour or pixelated on a screen, lies the immense, human cost of peace.

I...

This ship is a real-life piece of history. It was like living in World War 2. My children got to see and feel what life was like on this ship. The tremendous hardships our soldiers tolerated.

It was a lesson in war, ships, marine life, engineering, and weapons. We were lucky to have someone explaining the logistics, tactics, and strategy behind the deployment of these ships.

The ship was converted from a troller design and had so many things built in, from the medical room, to tuck shop, to post office and more. You get to see all that, even how they showered and ate.

I was surprised just how much my kids were into this ship and how long they stayed aboard.

There are lots of food stands on shore that offer a decent selection at reasonable prices. The exception is the coffee stand, which charged $4 for a muffin.

Unfortunately, parking is hard to find nearby. So, go earlier in the day.

Admission is by donation. But, you must make a donation of some amount .

It's definitely...

The last Corvette, HMCS Sackville is an honorary ship on display anchored at Halifax Waterfront and is a one-of-a-kind experience of what it was like to be on a battleship from World War II.

The ship has been restored to its glory days in vibrant colours from when it accompanied transport ships across the Atlantic to prevent German submarine attacks. We were able to operate the battle guns, see the missiles, engine room, close living quarters and see the top of the deck as well as various displays and commemorative plaques for past service folks.

There is no admission fee but a recommended donation of $5pp at the entrance. Many Canadian navy sailors are also on deck to guide and...