Rediscovering a Vision: A Feasibility Study Worth Revisiting

Sometimes the timing is right, but circumstances get in the way.

feasibility report

In 2019, just before the world changed with the arrival of COVID-19, the Wild Islands Tourism Advancement Partnership (WITAP), received the North Atlantic Oceanarium Preliminary Feasibility Study. The report examined whether an ocean discovery centre on Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore could succeed. Its conclusions were encouraging.

Like many promising community initiatives, momentum slowed as priorities shifted and uncertainty became the new reality. Yet the study itself remains just as relevant today—and perhaps even more so.

The feasibility study concluded that a North Atlantic Oceanarium could become a significant attraction for the region while complementing, rather than competing with, existing tourism experiences. It identified strong opportunities to collaborate with local organizations, businesses, researchers, and cultural partners, creating a destination that celebrates the Eastern Shore’s remarkable marine environment.

Importantly, the report found that the Oceanarium’s proposed exhibits and visitor experiences could meet—or even exceed—the standard of many existing interpretive and cultural facilities within Nova Scotia’s provincial museum network. It also suggested that, with effective management and strong community support, the Centre could eventually reduce its reliance on government operating assistance through earned revenue and partnerships.

Perhaps the most enduring message of the study, however, was that success would depend on people.

The report emphasized that the right team, collaborative partnerships, environmental stewardship, scientific integrity, cultural relevance, and community engagement would ultimately determine the Centre’s success. Those observations remain at the heart of the Eastern Shore Ocean Discovery Centre today.

As our vision continues to evolve, we’re reminded that this project has never been about constructing a building alone. It is about building a community around the ocean—one that welcomes scientists, artists, educators, fishers, students, tourism operators, volunteers, and residents to learn from one another and work together.

How Can You Help Shape the Future?

The feasibility study recognized that community involvement would be essential. We’d like to continue that conversation by asking a few simple questions.

  • What stories about the Eastern Shore’s ocean should every visitor hear?
  • Are there marine species, habitats, or local traditions you feel deserve greater attention?
  • Do you have skills, knowledge, or experience you’d like to contribute?
  • Would you enjoy volunteering, helping with research, developing exhibits, organizing events, fundraising, or sharing local history?
  • Do you know someone who should be part of this journey?

Whether your passion is science, conservation, education, art, history, photography, woodworking, boating, or simply sharing your love of the coast, there is a place for you in this growing community.

The Eastern Shore Ocean Discovery Centre will only become as strong as the community that builds it.

If you’d like to get involved, we’d love to hear from you. Email us to share your ideas, ask questions, or join our growing network of supporters.

After all, every great ocean begins with countless rivers coming together.

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