Canal Days has celebrated Port Colborne's unique connection to the water for nearly 50 years, bringing together tall ships, historic vessels, marine experiences, and waterfront traditions that honour the community's proud nautical heritage. 

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Situated on the Welland Canal and the shores of Lake Erie, Port Colborne has long been shaped by the ships, sailors, and industries that have passed through its harbour. Throughout the festival, visitors can experience that history firsthand by touring remarkable vessels, sailing aboard a traditional tall ship, exploring local museums and lighthouses, discovering underwater shipwrecks through virtual reality, and learning from organizations dedicated to preserving Canada's marine history.

 

Whether you're a lifelong boating enthusiast or discovering the waterfront for the first time, Canal Days offers countless opportunities to experience Port Colborne's enduring connection to the Great Lakes. 

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Empire Sandy  

One of Canada's most recognizable tall ships, the Empire Sandy returns to Canal Days to offer unforgettable sailing experiences on Lake Erie. Originally built in 1943 as a deep-sea cargo vessel, the Empire Sandy has been carefully restored into a magnificent three-masted schooner that now welcomes guests aboard for scenic sailing adventures. An Empire Sandy cruise is one of the signature experiences of Canal Days. 

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Tall Ships Canada

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Throughout Canal Days, Tall Ships Canada, presented by Intact Public Entities and McAvoy Belan Insurance, helps bring Canada's maritime heritage to life through educational programming, public engagement, crew meet-and-greets, and opportunities to explore remarkable historic vessels. 

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Representing organizations across the country that preserve and operate traditional sailing ships, Tall Ships Canada connects visitors with Canada's rich seafaring history while inspiring future generations to experience life on the water.

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For more information on Tall Ships Canada, visit: www.tallshipexpeditions.com​​

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St. Lawrence II 

Visit the St. Lawrence II, the oldest purpose-built sail training vessel laid down in North America, during Canal Days. Operated by Tall Ships Canada, the vessel was specifically designed to provide outdoor, adventure-based sail training that builds leadership, confidence, teamwork, and character through life at sea.  

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Port Colborne youth ages 13–18 are also invited to apply for the Ships-2-Shores program, with free spaces currently available. The program offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience Canada's sailing heritage while developing valuable life skills aboard this historic vessel. 

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Location:

• Intersection of West and King Street 

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STV Pathfinder ​

Step aboard the STV Pathfinder for an unforgettable hands-on sailing adventure during Canal Days. 

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Operated by Brigs Youth Sail Training, this 72-foot sail training vessel gives participants the opportunity to experience life aboard a traditional tall ship while learning directly from an experienced crew. Guests can help set sails, haul lines, maneuver the vessel, and assist with docking, making it a unique way to experience Lake Erie and Port Colborne Harbour from the water. 

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Whether you're considering a future sailing program or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the STV Pathfinder offers an authentic introduction to traditional sail training.

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Save Ontario Shipwrecks - Niagara Chapter

Making its Canal Days debut, the Niagara Chapter of Save Ontario Shipwrecks invites visitors to discover Niagara's underwater history through an immersive virtual reality experience. 

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This interactive exhibit allows guests to explore shipwrecks throughout the Niagara and Haldimand regions without ever entering the water. By offering a virtual experience, visitors can learn about these fascinating underwater heritage sites while helping protect these fragile historical resources for future generations. 

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Location:

• ​West Street near Victoria Street 

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Lighthouse Tours 

Discover two of Port Colborne's most recognizable landmarks through guided Lighthouse Tours presented by the Friends of the Port Colborne Lighthouses. 

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Learn how these historic structures have safely guided vessels through the Welland Canal and Lake Erie for more than a century while hearing stories about the community's rich marine history. Along the way, enjoy spectacular views of lakers, ocean-going ships, recreational boaters, and visiting tall ships as they navigate the canal. 

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Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum 

The Port Colborne Historical and Marine Museum welcomes visitors throughout Canal Days to explore the stories, people, and traditions that have shaped Port Colborne's maritime history. 

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Families can enjoy historical demonstrations, interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, re-enactments, kiddie train rides, and many other family-friendly experiences that bring local history to life. 

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Since 1979, the Museum has served as a gathering place to celebrate Port Colborne's connection to the Welland Canal while preserving the stories that continue to define the community's marine heritage. 

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Learn more about what's happening at the Port Colborne Heritage & Marine Museum!