In this drawing, the Yarrows-built frigate HMCS St. Catharines, accompanied by the naval tug Haro, is returning from post-completion sea trials.

Sea trials evaluated a ship's performance and seaworthiness, and had to be successfully completed before a ship could enter service. After being commissioned in mid-1943, St. Catharines was transferred to the Atlantic, taking part in the 1944 boarding and destruction of the German submarine U-744. In the foreground are some of Esquimalt's defences, located on Duntze Head. They include a searchlight and a twin 6-pounder quick firing gun designed to counter small, fast-moving vessels.

HMCS St. Catharines Entering Esquimalt Harbour
Drawn by Rowley Murphy in 1943
Beaverbrook Collection of War Art
CWM 19710261-2399