Restored Hector Ship to Make Historic Return to Pictou Harbour

A restored replica of the historic ship Hector, which played a pivotal role in Scottish immigration to Nova Scotia, is set for a ceremonial launch in Pictou Harbour on July 15, 2025. This event marks the culmination of a significant restoration and fundraising initiative that began in 2019.

The vessel, originally launched in the year 2000 as a non-sailing replica, has undergone extensive repairs and renovations to ensure it can sail once more. The Ship Hector Society, which acquired the deteriorating ship for a nominal fee in 2010, has spearheaded a $4 million fundraising campaign to support the extensive restoration work required to transform the Hector into a fully functional sailing ship.

The launch ceremony will see the vessel eased into the water from seven launchways, a process described by master shipbuilder Vern Shea as both thrilling and nerve-wracking. “I’ve witnessed quite a few launches in my career,” Shea stated. “You always get the hair on the back of your neck rising and the goosebumps every time you see it.”

Shea, who was involved in the original build of the Hector, noted that the latest restoration required all hull planking above the waterline to be replaced due to rot. The team used Douglas fir for the planking and added two layers of fibreglass for enhanced durability. This meticulous work reflects a commitment to preserving the ship’s historical integrity while ensuring it meets modern safety standards.

Inside the vessel, two cramped compartments have been reconstructed to replicate the conditions faced by the original 189 Scottish settlers who made the treacherous 11-week journey in 1773. Shea described these conditions as “cramped and putrid,” highlighting the endurance of the settlers who contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of Nova Scotia.

According to the Hector Society, the arrival of the Hector and subsequent Scottish immigrants played a crucial role in shaping not only Nova Scotia but also Canada as a whole. The society’s website emphasizes the historical significance of this voyage, stating, “This historic voyage marked the beginning of a massive wave of immigration that would shape the future of North America and gave Pictou the honour of being called ‘The Birthplace of New Scotland.’”

Once launched, the Hector will undergo additional modifications, including the installation of electric motors, masts, and sails. It is anticipated that the refurbished ship will be ready for harbour tours by 2027. Society chair Wes Surett reported that just over $2 million has been raised so far, with $1.8 million still needed to complete the project.

In addition to the ship’s restoration, the interpretive centre adjacent to Hector Heritage Quay recently underwent a transformation, funded by both the federal and provincial governments. This revamped centre now features interactive displays and a panoramic theatre presentation that tells the intertwined stories of Scottish settlers and the local Mi’kmaq inhabitants.

“It’s a great interactive job of telling the story of survival and how the Celtic culture and the Mi’kmaq culture intertwined,” Surett noted. Future plans for the site include a sailing program and a wooden shipbuilding school, but the real financial potential lies in the ship’s ability to set sail. “We really see it as a way to generate revenue to sustain the attraction long-term,” he added.

As the Hector prepares for its historic return to the water, it symbolizes not only a revival of maritime heritage but also a tribute to the resilience and contributions of early settlers who shaped the region’s identity.