An interpretation centre called Explorama: Sea, Mountains and Wonders was founded in 1995 by the member of parliament of Canada Charles-Eugène Marin. Its original mission was to introduce visitors to the fascinating world of the Gaspé peninsula. The centre offered a showcase for the wonders of the sea and the mountains, as well as for local culture and history. 

In 2003-2004, the centre made a significant reorientation toward museology and marine sciences.

Today, Exploramer: Discovering the Sea is a museum institution recognized by the Minister of Culture, Communications and the Satus of women . Its mission is to raise public awareness about conservation and encourage recognition of the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem as a vital part of our environment.

This mission is pursued through various activities aimed at popularizing science. These take place at the Museum and Aquarium, on sea excursions and in Gaspé schools through a learning program adapted for various academic levels.

In the summer of 2009, Exploramer is launching a program to promote healthy management of our marine resources, by appealing to visitors’ tastebuds. The accreditation program Smarter Seafood - Protecting the St. Lawrence’s marine biodiversity is encouraging Gaspesian restaurants and fish markets to try some lesser-known edible species of fish from the waters of the St. Lawrence.