Founded in 1995 by federal member of parliament Charles-Eugène Marin, Explorama: Sea, Mountains and Wonders was, at the time, dedicated to introducing visitors to the wonders of the Gaspé Peninsula. The centre educated visitors about the sea, the mountains, and Gaspesian culture and history. In a major shift, Explorama was transformed into a science museum and marine science centre in 2004. Today, Exploramer, Discovering the Sea is a museum recognized by the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications du Québec whose mission is to raise public awareness of the St. Lawrence marine environment and the importance of preserving it.
From the original marina project to the opening of Explorama, an initial vision for tourism in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts begins to take shape.
Explorama: Sea, Mountains and Wonders officially opens its doors.
After a period of uncertainty and the closure of Explorama, a revitalization committee is formed to rethink the future of the site. In 2004, the interpretation centre becomes a museum with a new mission, new management team, and a fresh start.
Exploramer expands its aquariums with new exhibition pools, quarantine pools, exhibitions, and visitor services. The museum strengthens its scientific and educational role with new activities focused on the St. Lawrence.
Created by Exploramer, the Smarter Seafood program promotes edible species found in the St. Lawrence and encourages more diverse, locally sourced, and sustainable seafood consumption.
Every year, in anticipation of fishing season, Smarter Seafood releases a list of marine species that are edible, sufficiently plentiful in the St. Lawrence, sustainably harvested, and which may not be overly familiar to consumers.
Exploramer is rocked by a major crisis following a devastating fire and the prospect of having to shut down due to a lack of funding. With support from the community and several partners, the museum is able to stay open.
In 2019, Exploramer launches the first two phases of its long-term sustainability project. A museum storage area is built; the aquarium pools are converted to saltwater; and the C-E Marin Exploramer ushers in a new chapter in exploring the St. Lawrence. At the same time, even bigger projects begin to take shape . . .
Exploramer enters the third phase of its sustainability project with the renovation of the museum, the opening of its permanent exhibition I, the St. Lawrence, the creation of an ecosystem-based aquarium, its first digital exhibition, and growing international recognition for its work on ocean-related issues.
Exploramer enters the third phase of its sustainability project with the renovation of the museum, the opening of its permanent exhibition I, the St. Lawrence, the creation of an ecosystem-based aquarium, its first digital exhibition, and growing international recognition for its work on ocean-related issues.
Following the ceremonial groundbreaking on May 26, 2026, marking the start of construction, Exploramer will inaugurate the St. Lawrence Shark Pavilion in summer 2027. In line with the museum’s mission of public education and awareness, this new immersive space will introduce visitors to fascinating shark species and explain their role in the marine ecosystem.
From the marina project to the opening of the Explorama Discovery Center, a new vision for tourism is taking shape around Sainte-Anne-des-Monts.
Opening of the Explorama Discovery Center: Sea, Mountains, and Wonders.
After a period of uncertainty and the closure of Explorama, a revitalization committee is formed to rethink the future of the site. In 2004, the interpretation centre becomes a museum with a new mission, new management team, and a fresh start.
Exploramer expands its aquariums with new exhibition pools, quarantine pools, exhibitions, and visitor services. The museum strengthens its scientific and educational role with new activities focused on the St. Lawrence.
Created by Exploramer, the Smarter Seafood program promotes edible species found in the St. Lawrence and encourages more diverse, locally sourced, and sustainable seafood consumption. Every year, in anticipation of fishing season, Smarter Seafood releases a list of marine species that are edible, sufficiently plentiful in the St. Lawrence, sustainably harvested, and which may not be overly familiar to consumers.
Between a fire and the threat of closure due to a lack of operating funds, Exploramer is facing a major crisis. Thanks to the community’s efforts and various sources of support, the museum is moving forward.
In 2019, Exploramer launches the first two phases of its long-term sustainability project. A museum storage area is built; the aquarium pools are converted to saltwater; and the C-E Marin Exploramer ushers in a new chapter in exploring the St. Lawrence. At the same time, even bigger projects begin to take shape . . .
Exploramer enters the third phase of its sustainability project with the renovation of the museum, the opening of its permanent exhibition I, the St. Lawrence, the creation of an ecosystem-based aquarium, its first digital exhibition, and growing international recognition for its work on ocean-related issues.
Following the ceremonial groundbreaking on May 26, 2026, marking the start of construction, Exploramer will inaugurate the St. Lawrence Shark Pavilion in summer 2027. In line with the museum’s mission of public education and awareness, this new immersive space will introduce visitors to fascinating shark species and explain their role in the marine ecosystem.
Exploramer’s mission is to:
