Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père Rimouski
Explore a historic submarine, a poignant shipwreck museum, and a scenic lighthouse on the St. Lawrence River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père Rimouski
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a historic submarine, a poignant shipwreck museum, and a scenic lighthouse on the St. Lawrence River.
"A must-visit for its unique exhibits, especially the immersive submarine tour and the moving Empress of Ireland story."
🎧 Submarine Audio Guide
The audio guide for the Onondaga submarine is very informative, but can be long. Listen to it as you go through each compartment for the best experience.
🚢 Empress of Ireland Video First
Watch the video presentation about the Empress of Ireland before exploring the exhibits for a deeper understanding of the tragedy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
HMCS Onondaga Submarine
Pointe-au-Père
Explore a real Canadian naval submarine, complete with an engaging audio guide that brings its history to life.
Empress of Ireland Museum
Pointe-au-Père
Discover the poignant story of the Empress of Ireland shipwreck through informative artifacts and a compelling video presentation.
Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse
Pointe-au-Père
Climb this historic lighthouse for panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and learn about its maritime significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Submarine Tours
Allow Ample Time for All Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Submarine Audio Guide
The audio guide for the Onondaga submarine is very informative, but can be long. Listen to it as you go through each compartment for the best experience.
🚢 Empress of Ireland Video First
Watch the video presentation about the Empress of Ireland before exploring the exhibits for a deeper understanding of the tragedy.
📸 Lighthouse Views
The lighthouse offers stunning views, especially at sunrise. Check tour times as access might be restricted.
🧥 Weather Preparedness
The submarine's exterior can show wear from the elements. Dress appropriately, especially if visiting during cooler months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Submarine Audio Guide
The audio guide for the Onondaga submarine is very informative, but can be long. Listen to it as you go through each compartment for the best experience.
🚢 Empress of Ireland Video First
Watch the video presentation about the Empress of Ireland before exploring the exhibits for a deeper understanding of the tragedy.
📸 Lighthouse Views
The lighthouse offers stunning views, especially at sunrise. Check tour times as access might be restricted.
🧥 Weather Preparedness
The submarine's exterior can show wear from the elements. Dress appropriately, especially if visiting during cooler months.
⏳ Allow Plenty of Time
Don't rush! You'll want 2-3 hours to fully explore the submarine, museum, and lighthouse.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père for its unique and engaging exhibits, particularly the HMCS Onondaga submarine and the informative Empress of Ireland museum. The lighthouse also offers beautiful views. While the submarine's exterior shows some wear, the overall experience is highly recommended for its historical significance and immersive nature.
"First of all, this is an under-appreciated event in Canadian history, on par with the Titanic and overshadowed by the impending Great War. So to visit the museum with a lot of informative artifacts, one gets the sense of the tragedy. The visit features a video presentation which is best experienced before one goes through the exhibits. It is sad to realize that for many years the wreck sure was unprotected and scavenged by divers from all over."
Mark Neill
"It was informative about the Empress of Ireland collision in 1914. Great static display of a submarine. Nice lighthouse."
RJ Rauen
"It is a historic place, moreover, it's a historical complex of 3 excellent attractions, all super interesting, this is the "ONONDAGA" Submarine...
Despite having been in the army, had never been on this type of ship, so To explain everything they created an audio system with 17 points, so you can listen to the explanatory audio as you go passing through each compartment of the submarine point by point, and if you have a minimum of imagination, you can place yourself in time and situation, as if you were in an action film or a documentary.
The state of conservation and originality of the ship is remarkable despite the fact that many visitors pass by the place every day, but externally it is the weakest point of conservation due to exposure to the elements and inclement weather, which in winter is not friendly, which is understandable
A place that deserves a stop to be enjoyed, very well explained and easy to access, I recommend it 100% and see the images."
Osvaldo Henández
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père is located in Rimouski, Quebec, approximately a 5.5-hour drive from Montreal. 
Yes, there is typically ample parking available for visitors at the Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père.
While public transportation options to Rimouski exist, having a car is highly recommended for ease of access and exploring the wider Bas-Saint-Laurent region.
Accessibility can vary between exhibits. The HMCS Onondaga submarine has specific access points, and while efforts are made, it's best to check with the site directly regarding specific needs.
The Site historique maritime de la Pointe-au-Père is located about 10 kilometers from the center of Rimouski.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours vary seasonally. It's essential to check the official website for the most up-to-date information, especially regarding the HMCS Onondaga submarine and lighthouse tours.
Ticket prices vary depending on which exhibits you wish to visit. Combination tickets are often available. Check the official website for current pricing and any potential discounts, like free entry to the lighthouse on Canada Day.
It is highly recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for the HMCS Onondaga submarine tours, as they operate on a timed schedule and can sell out.
Yes, the HMCS Onondaga submarine tour is guided. The lighthouse may also have guided tours to access the top.
Yes, you can often purchase tickets for individual attractions, though combination passes may offer better value.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The site features three main attractions: the HMCS Onondaga submarine, the Empress of Ireland shipwreck museum, and the Pointe-au-Père lighthouse.
You can walk through the entire submarine, guided by an audio system that explains each compartment and its history. It's an immersive experience that allows you to imagine life onboard.
The museum details the tragic 1914 shipwreck, showcasing informative artifacts and a video presentation that highlights the event's significance in Canadian history.
Yes, you can climb the lighthouse, but access to the top is often restricted to guided tours that run on an hourly schedule.
The interactive nature of the submarine and the historical stories can be engaging for older children and teenagers. The lighthouse climb also offers an adventurous element.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food options on-site may be limited, especially outside of peak season. It's advisable to check the official website or plan to dine in Rimouski.
Picnic areas might be available, but it's best to confirm with the site management. Bringing your own snacks and water is always a good idea.
Rimouski offers a variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining, serving local Quebecois cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse, the HMCS Onondaga submarine exterior, and the St. Lawrence River views are prime spots. Sunrise at the lighthouse is particularly stunning.
Photography is generally allowed inside the submarine, but be mindful of other visitors and any specific signage.
As with most historical sites and protected areas, drone usage is likely restricted. Always check local regulations and site policies before flying a drone.
Early morning for sunrise at the lighthouse
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚢 Maritime History Enthusiasts
+1 The detailed audio guides and informative exhibits cater to a deep appreciation for these historical subjects. 📸 Photographers
The imposing structure of the HMCS Onondaga submarine also makes for dramatic shots, both externally and internally. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Empress of Ireland Tragedy
The preservation of artifacts from the wreck has been a long and complex process, with many items being salvaged over the years. The museum's collection provides a tangible connection to the lives lost and the grandeur of the ship before its untimely demise. It's a powerful reminder of the unforgiving nature of the sea and the importance of maritime safety.
Exploring the HMCS Onondaga Submarine
Visitors are guided through the submarine's various compartments, from the control room to the living quarters, with an audio system providing detailed explanations at 17 points along the way. This immersive experience allows visitors to truly imagine life aboard a submarine, the confined spaces, and the daily routines of the crew.
The Pointe-au-Père Lighthouse
The climb itself is an experience, and the vantage point from the top is a reward for the effort. While the lighthouse itself is a significant attraction, access to the very top is often managed through hourly guided tours.
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