Port of Quebec Live Cam

Watch the commercial ships and cruise liners arriving and leaving the Quebec City



History

The Port of Quebec, strategically located at the confluence of the Saint Lawrence River and the Atlantic Ocean, is one of North America’s oldest and most historically significant ports. Established in the early 17th century, the port has played a pivotal role in shaping the geopolitical and economic landscape of Canada. Its origins trace back to 1608, when Samuel de Champlain founded the city of Quebec, laying the foundation for French colonization in North America.

During the colonial period, the Port of Quebec served as a critical gateway for fur trade, which was the backbone of the early Canadian economy. French explorers and traders relied on the port to export pelts to Europe and import goods essential for the survival of the fledgling colony. The port's prominence continued under British rule after the capture of Quebec City in 1759 during the Seven Years’ War. This shift marked a new era of British dominance in the region, with the port becoming a vital link in the transatlantic trade network.