The Hulks Concrete Ship Breakwater
Eerie concrete ships from WWII form a unique breakwater, a haunting graveyard of history on the Powell River coast.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sea lions are active
The Hulks Concrete Ship Breakwater
Best Time
Sea lions are active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Eerie concrete ships from WWII form a unique breakwater, a haunting graveyard of history on the Powell River coast.
"Amazing to see. I would definitely recommend."
Kayak for Close-Ups
Rent a kayak or boat to get right up to the hulks for an immersive experience.
Binoculars for Views
Use the provided binoculars at pull-outs for a better distant view and historical info. [^review]
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Concrete Giants
Powell River shoreline
Massive, eerie concrete ships forming an unusual breakwater. A haunting graveyard of history.
Sea Lion Colony
Nearby log booms
Hundreds of sea lions gather in summer, offering a lively and sometimes intimidating wildlife spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Accessing The Hulks
Historical Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Kayak for Close-Ups
Rent a kayak or boat to get right up to the hulks for an immersive experience.
Binoculars for Views
Use the provided binoculars at pull-outs for a better distant view and historical info. [^review]
Watch for Sea Lions
In summer, hundreds of sea lions can be seen on nearby log booms. [^review]
Drone Footage Fun
Capture stunning aerial views of the concrete ships with drone footage.
Tips
from all over the internet
Kayak for Close-Ups
Rent a kayak or boat to get right up to the hulks for an immersive experience.
Binoculars for Views
Use the provided binoculars at pull-outs for a better distant view and historical info. [^review]
Watch for Sea Lions
In summer, hundreds of sea lions can be seen on nearby log booms. [^review]
Drone Footage Fun
Capture stunning aerial views of the concrete ships with drone footage.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find The Hulks to be an impressive and unique sight, a fascinating piece of history visible from shore. Many recommend getting closer via boat or kayak for the full experience, especially to see the summer sea lion colonies. While some find it a bit remote, the historical significance and visual impact make it a worthwhile stop.
"We stumbled across this on our drive. Its Visable from a pull out on the road. There are binoculars there you can use for a $1 to get a better view and some history about the ships. We didnt have time to walk down the trail to get a closer look but next time we will definitely check it out. It's really impressive just seeing it from a distance. I would highly recommend taking some time to check this out. If you appreciate ships you'll love this."
Andrew Tosczak
"Amazing to see. I would definitely recommend."
Rose P.
"If you’ve got the time and a boat or some snorkelling gear make sure to get right up close. The hulks are fantastic. In summer too there are hundreds of sea lions on the nearby log booms and they are great fun to swim with. Intimidating, but not aggressive in any way."
thisissimonb
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hulks are located along the shoreline of Powell River, BC. They are visible from pull-outs along the road, offering a distant view. For a closer look, consider renting a kayak or boat. [^review]
Yes, there are pull-outs along the road where you can park to view the concrete ships from a distance. [^review]
While you can see them from the road, getting directly to the ships often requires water access. Some reviews mention trails, but a boat or kayak is recommended for a true close-up experience. [^review]
Many visitors recommend getting on the water via kayak or boat to truly appreciate the scale and history of these concrete ships. [^review]
Information on specific guided tours is limited, but local tour operators in Powell River might offer excursions that include viewing the concrete ships. It's best to check with local tourism providers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission tickets required to view The Hulks from the shore. Access to the water may involve rental fees for boats or kayaks. [^review]
The Hulks are a permanent fixture and can be viewed at any time. However, for the best experience with wildlife like sea lions, consider visiting during daylight hours, especially in summer. [^review]
There is no entry fee for the general area where The Hulks are located. Some viewing points may have coin-operated binoculars for a small fee. [^review]
Some adventurous visitors have mentioned swimming near the hulks, especially if there are sea lions present. However, exercise caution due to currents and the presence of marine life. [^review]
General access is open, but it's always wise to respect the environment and any posted signage. Avoid disturbing wildlife. [^review]
📸 📸 Photography
The sheer scale of the concrete ships makes for dramatic photos. Capture them from the shore, or even better, from the water. Drone footage offers unique perspectives. +1
Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the ships. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) can add dramatic lighting. If photographing wildlife, a telephoto lens is useful.
Yes, drone footage is popular for capturing the unique landscape of The Hulks. Ensure you are aware of and comply with all local drone regulations.
The pull-outs along the road offer accessible viewpoints. For more dynamic shots, being on the water provides a different perspective. [^review]
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful shadows and highlights on the concrete structures.
🎫 🚢 History & Context
These are experimental concrete ships built during World War II when steel was scarce. They were later sunk to form a breakwater for the paper mill. +1
Concrete ships were an experimental solution during wartime to conserve steel, which was in high demand for other war efforts. +1
The concrete ships were constructed during the World War II era, making them several decades old.
Their original purpose was to serve as cargo ships during WWII. After the war, they were repurposed as a breakwater. +1
Yes, other concrete ship fleets were used as breakwaters in places like Kiptopeke State Park, Virginia, and some were used as wharves in Oregon.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚢 History Buffs & Maritime Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers & Drone Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Fascinating History of The Hulks
After their service, many of these concrete ships found a second life as breakwaters. In Powell River, British Columbia, seven of these concrete vessels were intentionally sunk to create a protective barrier for the local paper mill and ferry landing. This unique use has preserved them as a striking historical artifact, a 'floating graveyard' of maritime history. They stand as a visual reminder of a unique period in shipbuilding and wartime necessity.
Visiting The Hulks offers a tangible connection to this past. While they may appear eerie or haunting, they are also undeniably fascinating. The sheer scale of these concrete behemoths, resting in the water, sparks curiosity about their construction and journey. It’s a chance to witness a piece of history that’s both unusual and visually impactful, drawing visitors interested in maritime heritage and quirky historical sites.
Experiencing The Hulks Up Close
For those who venture onto the water, there's an added bonus during the summer months: the sea lions. Hundreds of these marine mammals often gather on nearby log booms, creating a lively and sometimes noisy spectacle. While they can be intimidating, visitors report they are not aggressive. Swimming with the sea lions, though adventurous, is something some have experienced. Always prioritize safety and be mindful of the marine environment. [^review]
Even if you can't get on the water, the pull-out points offer a decent view. Some locations even have binoculars available for a small fee, allowing you to get a better look at the ships and read about their history. This makes it accessible for those who prefer to stay on land, offering a glimpse into this unusual breakwater. [^review]
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit