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Help us restore a piece
of history by donating today.
As a fully rigged, operational 18th-century sailing vessel, the Ship Hector is set to become a landmark for Canadian heritage, an iconic tourism destination for Nova Scotia, and a key economic driver for the region.
Charting Our Course
The Ship Hector's historic voyage is an integral chapter in Canada's history that needs preservation for the benefit of future generations. Appreciating the efforts newcomers made in pursuit of a better life remains relevant today, shaping our identity, values, and growth.
By working together with our community and indigenous partners to actively share this story, we contribute to the economic sustainability of the region through experiential tourism. This collaborative effort also highlights the progress and resilience of communities across Canada.
After five years of meticulous restoration, the Ship Hector replica will make a triumphant return to Pictou Harbour in a spectacular public launch on July 12, 2025. But our work doesn’t end there. Post-launch, we will continue to transform this dockside attraction into a fully operational, fare-paying passenger sailing vessel with with the goal of achieving full operational status by summer 2027. It will then stand as a vital tourism icon and economic driver for the region.
The progress we've made so far has been possible thanks to the unwavering support of our community and generous contributions to our "Charting Our Course" capital campaign. To bring the final leg of this project to fruition, we have set a goal of raising an additional $1.8 million.
At the same time, the Ship Hector Society is spearheading a significant effort to modernize the Hector Heritage Quay Interpretive Centre. Renovations will include innovative interactive displays that offer a comprehensive narrative of the Scottish settlers' partnership with the Indigenous people of Pik’tuk.
Guided by our four core values, we embark on the final leg of the Hector Charting Our Course campaign. We invite you to be part of this lasting legacy.
Reducing GHG emissions by fully powering the site with solar energy. Installing electric propulsion, making the Ship Hector the largest green, fully rigged passenger ship in Canada.
Sustainable
Creating an inclusive and accessible environment. Preserving the history of the relationship between the Hector settlers and the Mi’kmaq, crucial to the settlers' survival.
Inclusive
Offering educational opportunities that ignite curiosity in culture, history, craftsmanship, and seamanship. Sharing the contributions of Scottish settlers that helped shape Nova Scotia and Canada.
Educational
Fostering partnerships with the Indigenous people of Pik’tuk, educational institutions, government, and the broader community to enrich cultural exchange and promote sustainable development.