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Places of interest #4 in Richmond, British Columbia

Steveston Harbour

4.5 · 3,405 reviews
Industrial, authentic, and maritime-focused.
Steveston Harbour, 3820 Bayview St, Richmond, BC V7E 6K7, Canada
Interesting facts
1

The harbour supports over 500 commercial fishing vessels, ranging from gillnetters to large seiners.

2

The Steveston fleet is the primary supplier for much of the wild-caught salmon and spot prawns found in Metro Vancouver restaurants.

3

The harbour authority is a non-profit organization that manages the facility without federal subsidies.

4

During the summer, the harbour hosts a specialized 'Fish Sales Float' where the public can buy directly from the decks of boats.

5

The site includes a complex network of floating wharves designed to fluctuate with the significant tidal changes of the Fraser River estuary.

Overview

Steveston Harbour is an active commercial fishing port located at the mouth of the Fraser River in Richmond, British Columbia. It functions as the home base for the largest fleet of commercial fishing vessels in Canada. Visitors can purchase fresh catch directly from independent fishers at the Fisherman's Wharf docks. The area features a historical boardwalk that connects the working harbour to various maritime-themed restaurants and heritage sites. It operates under the governance of the Steveston Harbour Authority, ensuring the facility remains a functional industrial space. The site maintains a clear separation between active maritime zones and pedestrian-friendly public walkways. Waterfront dining options primarily feature locally sourced seafood caught by the residing fleet. It serves as a central hub for the historic village of Steveston.

Photo spot

The end of the public pier looking back toward the cluster of masts and the historic cannery building.

Insider tips

Bring a cooler and ice if you intend to purchase fresh seafood directly from the boats.

Check the official harbour website for real-time vessel listings to see which species are currently being offloaded.

Dress in layers, as the proximity to the open ocean causes rapid temperature drops regardless of the inland weather.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to board boats that do not have 'Fish for Sale' signage displayed, as these are active workspaces.

Good to know

Fish sales are seasonal and depend entirely on current commercial fishing openings and catch availability.

Etiquette

Stay clear of active loading zones and heavy machinery; respect private vessel decks unless clearly marked for public sales.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring to early autumn, specifically on weekend mornings when the fishing fleet is active and the market floats are busiest.
Address
Steveston Harbour, 3820 Bayview St, Richmond, BC V7E 6K7, Canada
49.124, -123.184
Get directions
Details
Market highlightsDirect-from-boat salmon, spot prawns, and Dungeness crab
Facility typeActive commercial small craft harbour

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring to early autumn, specifically on weekend mornings when the fishing fleet is active and the market floats are busiest..

The end of the public pier looking back toward the cluster of masts and the historic cannery building.

Close by you'll find Garry Point Park, Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site, Britannia Shipyards National Historic Site.

Canada

About Richmond, British Columbia