Bonavista and its harbour played an important role in the fishing and sealing industries in Canada beginning in the 16th century. Fishermen from Spain, Portugal, France and England traveled across the ocean to reap the bounty of the nearby fishing grounds that teemed with wildlife.
The Ryan Premises, once owned by fish merchant James Ryan, is a preserved example of a large merchant operation. Now a national historic site, it features five buildings that tell the tale of the region’s fishing past.
Fishing remains an important commercial industry in Bonavista, as seen by the many fishing vessels in the harbour, each with their own unique character and name.
