Parc Maritime de Saint-Laurent — Attraction in Saint-Laurent-de-l'Île-d'Orléans

A Hidden Gem on the St. Lawrence: A Must-Visit Maritime Museum

The Parc Maritime de Saint-Laurent is an absolute treasure nestled along the scenic shores of Île d'Orléans. This beautifully curated museum offers a captivating journey into the island’s rich shipbuilding heritage, blending history, culture, and nature in a truly immersive experience.

From the moment you arrive, the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River set the tone for a memorable visit. The museum grounds are thoughtfully laid out, with both indoor and outdoor exhibits that bring the past to life. The audio guide is informative and engaging, offering fascinating insights into the lives of the shipyard workers and the evolution of wooden shipbuilding on the island.

Highlights include the “Forest of Rails” walking path, the interactive digital exhibits, and the authentic stories shared through archival photos and first-hand accounts. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family with curious kids, or simply a traveler seeking a unique cultural stop, this museum delivers.

Affordable, educational, and set in a breathtaking location—this maritime museum is a must-see when visiting...

We visited the I'lle d' Orleans recently and stopped at the Parc Maritime. It seemed many visitors simply looked at the boats and the view of the St Lawrence without taking the audio or guided tour. Their mistake! We signed up for the guided tour and it was fascinating. We got a feel for life on the island before the advent of bridges and roads and the central importance of row boats and schooners for commerce and community. The carpentry shop where the row boats were made is well preserved and many styles and shapes of vessels are on display. All of the craftsmanship was by hand yet they turned out a dizzying number of crafts each year. We also saw the are of the yard where larger craft, such as schooners were winched ashore for overhauled. This is well worth your...

Located right on the shores of the St. Lawrence River, the Parc maritime de Saint-Laurent is a living testament to traditional and commercial shipbuilding on Île d’Orléans. The Parc is a unique site that allows visitors to discover our rich maritime heritage through a blend of culture and natural beauty. It’s a wonderful trip for visitors of all ages!Explore the Je, tu… île exhibit using our new digital guide! Along the way, you’ll learn about the history of the shipyard and immerse yourself in local island life thanks to first-hand accounts, information capsules, and archival photographs. You’ll also discover the stories of the shipyard’s workers and the island’s inhabitants as you stroll through the Forest of Rails. This summer, experience island life at Parc maritime de...