Canadian Navy’s Maritime Forces Pacific has its headquarters in Her
Majesty’s Canadian (HMC) Dockyard - Esquimalt.
Canada has the longest coastline in the world and it is bordered by three oceans. The Navy recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. Prior to 1910, the British Royal Navy had the responsibility of providing maritime defence for British North America and since 1867, the Dominion of Canada.
The Canadian Navy has been “Ready Aye Ready” and responding with destroyers, frigates, corvettes, motor torpedo boats, and minesweepers for over a century. A stunning sculpture, the Homecoming, was unveiled at Ship’s Point (downtown core) as part of the anniversary celebrations on May 4, 2010 (Navy Day). Sculptor Nathan Scott’s inspiration for the piece is his daughter Acacia.
Here are some interesting facts:
- 4,200 Regular Force military members
- 2,200 Civilian employees (from 25 unions and 72 different occupations)
- 1,700 Reserve Force personnel and cadets
- 370 Non-public employees (CANEX, SISIP, etc.)
People curious to know what goes on behind the gates at the base should visit the Museum where you can learn about the Navy’s past, present and future operations.




