Ship Hector’s Big Splash!

Watch history in the making as the replica Ship Hector makes a big splash in Pictou on July 12, 2025!

Join us as the fully restored Ship Hector replica makes its triumphant return to Pictou Harbour following a five year restoration, in a spectacular public launch on Saturday, July 12, 2025.

Opening ceremonies to mark the event kick-off at 10am on the Pictou Waterfront with an anticipated launch of the Hector at 11am.

Please visit the Ship Hector website to learn about Big Splash celebrations and events, to learn more about the detailed restoration that has taken place… and discover the exciting new role that the replica Ship Hector will play in Pictou Harbour!

History of Ship Hector
Just over 250 years ago in September 1773, 189 Scottish settlers landed on the shores of Pictou Nova Scotia after a harrowing 11 weeks at sea. This voyage was the beginning of an incredible journey of the first permanent, enduring Scottish settlement in Nova Scotia. To this day, Pictou is still referred to as “The Birthplace of New Scotland”.

In 2000, the replica of the Ship Hector was launched in Pictou Harbour. The Ship  and the Hector Heritage Quay Interpretive Centre welcomes visitors to experience the life those that made the voyage across the Atlantic Ocean aboard the Ship Hector and their crucial relationship with the Mi’kmaq.

In June 2020, the Ship Hector replica was lifted out of its Pictou Waterfront home and was taken into dry dock to begin a major restoration to ensure the Hector would continue being one of Nova Scotia’s historical sailing ambassadors.