C.C.G.S. Camsell in drydock
mmbc 993.017.2557

The federal government has provided services to mariners on the coast since the mid-1800's. In the 1860's the first lighthouses were built at the entrance to Esquimalt Harbour and at Race Rocks. Soon after, a network of lighthouses was erected around Vancouver Island and lifeboats began to be stationed along the coast. A lifesaving trail, known as the West Coast Trail, was also constructed where shipwrecks were known to occur, making it possible for survivors to get assistance.

The H.M.C.S. Skidegate is one of the C.G.G. fleet. It serves as a workboat supply vessel and was originally, in 1964, based in Prince Rupert. It now resides in the western Arctic.

H.M.C.S. Skidegate mmbc 993.001.0122

C.G.S. Estevan mmbc 4193P

Another of the C.G.S. fleet is the C.G.S. Estevan. It serves principally as a lighthouse and bouy tender

A Canadian Coast Guard station operates out of the Victoria Harbour. The C.C.G. monitors the activities of vessels within 200 miles of the coastline, provides help in emergencies, and operates necessary supply and service ships such as the small icebreake r Camsell.

C.G.S. Wm. J. Stewart: Hydrographic Survey
mmbc 3614.01

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