Esquimalt Harbour facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Esquimalt Harbour |
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| Location | |
| Country | Canada |
| Location | Esquimalt, British Columbia |
| Coordinates | 48°26′00″N 123°26′00″W / 48.43333°N 123.43333°W |
| Details | |
| Queen's Harbour Master | Commander A. James |
| Website http://www.navy-marine.forces.gc.ca/en/about/structure-marpac-poesb-home.page |
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Esquimalt Harbour is a safe, natural harbour located in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. It sits on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. This harbour is surrounded by the towns of Colwood, View Royal, and Esquimalt.
You can enter Esquimalt Harbour from the south. This entrance is from the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It goes through a narrow passage called Royal Roads. The famous Fisgard Lighthouse stands at the harbour's west side in Colwood.
Esquimalt Harbour
Esquimalt Harbour is very important for Canada's navy. It is the main base for the Canadian Forces Maritime Forces Pacific. This part of the navy is based at CFB Esquimalt.
For many years, from 1842 to 1905, it was also the home of the Esquimalt Royal Navy Dockyard. This was a major base for the British Royal Navy.
Nearby Harbours
Just to the east of Esquimalt Harbour, you will find Victoria Harbour. Both are important waterways in the region.
Early History
In the summer of 1790, explorers from Spain visited the area. These explorers were Manuel Quimper, Gonzalo López de Haro, and Juan Carrasco. They were sailing on a ship called Princesa Real.
They explored the Strait of Juan de Fuca and claimed Esquimalt Harbour for Spain. They gave it the name Puerto de Córdova.
Images for kids
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Canadian warships docked at CFB Esquimalt July 2005
