News release

Sea Monsters at the Maritime Museum

Tourism, Culture and Heritage (Dec. 2003 - Jan. 2011)

This March Break, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic will explore the truth, fiction and folklore behind the mysteries that lurk in the ocean's depths - Sea Monsters!

From March 8 to 16, visitors of all ages will discover how many tentacles krakens possess, the Nova Scotia harbour that has been visited by a merman and what it means to find a blobster.

"This exhibit is another wonderful example of how the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic presents subjects that are not only fun and engaging, but also significant to this province's folklore and heritage," said Bill Dooks, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage.

From stories shared by our First Nations, to mariners' reports during the 19th century to contemporary sightings as recently as 2003, tales of sea monsters have reflected our fascination and fear of creatures who live beneath the waves.

While scientific discoveries during the last 150 years have shed much light on the true nature of sea monsters, the are still occasional reports of unknown beasts.

"Over the centuries, dozens of encounters with sea monsters have been reported by Nova Scotians," said the exhibit's co-creator, Gerry Lunn. "It's exciting to think that there are still unexplained sightings. I know I intend to keep my eyes peeled when I'm next on the water!"

Program highlights from the exhibit include a legendary kraken with seven-metre-long tentacles attacking a ship, a mermaid and mermen dress-up corner for kids and Oceans Wild's 20-metre-long inflatable whale.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is located at 1675 Lower Water St., Halifax.