Why military personnel and warships will be in North Vancouver this week

You may spot Navy ships or sailors around North Vancouver this week, but don’t be alarmed.

The Royal Canadian Navy is bringing Fleet Week 2025 to North Vancouver’s Burrard Dry Dock Pier from June 30 to July 6.

The event will feature frigate tours, military displays, and rigid inflatable boat rides, all of which are open to the public.

Fleet Week also includes a visiting Mexican warship, part of the Navy’s international partnership outreach.

Each year, the Royal Canadian Navy brings this event to cities like Vancouver to give people a rare, up-close look at the lives of sailors, the vessels they serve on, and the role Canada plays on the world’s oceans.

It’s a chance to step aboard a real Navy frigate, meet the crew, hear their stories, and even ride in one of their high-speed inflatable boats, no military background required.

For many, it’s also a chance to honour family legacies, snap some incredible photos, and learn about the Navy’s work in peacekeeping, rescue missions, and international cooperation, including with visiting allies like Mexico.

Tours, boat rides, and what to know

Guided upper deck tours of a Royal Canadian Navy frigate will be offered throughout Fleet Week, starting on Tuesday, July 1 (Canada Day) from noon to 5 p.m., followed by Friday, July 4, from 4 to 8 p.m., Saturday, July 5, from noon to 8 p.m., and Sunday, July 6, from noon to 5 p.m.

Each tour is approximately one hour long. Participants must be able to navigate stairs and ladders independently, as mobility support is not available onboard.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, short rigid inflatable boat (RHIB) rides will be offered on Saturday, July 5, from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 6, from noon to 5 p.m.

Each ride lasts 15 to 20 minutes. Waivers must be signed onsite, and children must be able to fit into Navy-issued personal flotation devices and follow all crew instructions to participate.

Hands-on interactive displays will also be available at Wallace Mews on Saturday, July 5, from noon to 8 p.m. and Sunday, July 6, from noon to 5 p.m.

These exhibits are fully accessible and open to all ages, offering visitors the chance to meet Royal Canadian Navy personnel and learn more about life at sea.

Tickets for all activities are free but limited. Participation in all activities requires free advance registration through Eventbrite.

Events may be rescheduled or cancelled without notice due to operational requirements or inclement weather.

Visitors are advised to wear flat, closed-toe shoes and dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Schedule highlights:

Frigate tours:

• July 1: Noon to 5 p.m.
• July 4: 4 to 8 p.m.
• July 5: Noon to 8 p.m.
• July 6: Noon to 5 p.m.

Boat rides (RHIB):

• July 5: Noon to 8 p.m.
• July 6: Noon to 5 p.m.

Interactive displays at Wallace Mews:

• July 5: Noon to 8 p.m.
• July 6: Noon to 5 p.m.

Fleet Week 

When: June 30 to July 6, 2025
Time: Varies by day, see information above
Where: Burrard Dry Dock Pier — 15 Wallace Mews, North Vancouver, B.C.
Admission: Free (registration required for tours and boat rides)

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