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Shipwrights by Improbable Escapes

Shipwrights by Improbable Escapes​An immersive ‘escape room’ experience with nautical-themed puzzles and challenges. Suitable for groups of 2-6 people.

Special Events

There’s always something new on the horizon. Discover our upcoming events, spread the word, and mark your calendar.

Children &
Youth (Age 5-13)

Programs to ignite curiosity and provide opportunity for exploration! Delivered virtually or in-person, these group programs can be adapted for ages 5-13.

Nautical
Nights

The Nautical Nights Speaker Series, in partnership with Kingston Yacht Club (KYC), has become an annual tradition at the Great Lakes Museum.

Lifelong
Learning

Life-long learning is a journey of continuous growth and development, enriching our lives with new knowledge and perspectives. Immerse yourself in the history of the Great Lakes!

About the
Collection

Archives and artefacts. A library collection covering all aspects of Canadian shipping and marine heritage. Photographs, shipping company collections and shipbuilding and design collections.

Ship Lists

A selection of unique registers of ships and individuals that were compiled to facilitate the research process.

Ways of Giving

Donate your time. Donate your money. Become a member. Leave a gift in your will. There are many ways to support the museum and we appreciate your interest in supporting the Great Lakes Museum!

The Story of the Great Lakes Museum

‘Know the Ropes’ – Museum News & Stories

Explore the rich maritime history of the Great Lakes, read the stories of our artefacts, find out interesting information to share at your next party! Know the Ropes shares a mix of museum news and interesting stories.

James McDonald

James McDonald

James is a partner and member of the Litigation Group at Cunningham Swan LLP. An advocate by nature, James has a broad-spectrum litigation practice that includes municipal, corporate, commercial and contractual disputes. Among other areas, James has direct experience with municipal zoning and by-law litigation, commercial lease and real property litigation, and construction disputes and liens.

In 2017, James retired from Naval Reserve of the Canadian Armed Forces into the Supplementary Reserve, having previously served as a Marine Engineering Systems Operator with HMCS Prevost in London, HMCS Brandon in Esquimalt, BC, and most recently Kingston’s HMCS Cataraqui. In recognition of his community involvement and efforts, James was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and has twice successfully challenged the International Four Days’ March and received the Vierdaagskruis Cross (2008 and 2019).

On weekends, when he is not exploring the outdoors with his daughters, James can be found puttering in his workshop and experimenting with different woods and finishing techniques.