Prince Rupert, British Colombia, Canada Port

Prince Rupert is a true gem of the Canadian coastline, and with this gorgeous harbour becoming much more than a transportation hub, the modern side of the city is full bloom, attracting a population of young professionals endeavouring to turn into an even more dynamic place.

Prince Rupert is unique in its own right, whilst offering cruisers a chance to explore the wider shores of Canada. Heading south, you can venture towards Vancouver Island, westwards brings you to Haida Gwaii, and following the icy roadways of the north can lead towards the incredible climes of Alaska. With excellent museums, and a storied culture dating back to an aboriginal heritage, these destinations might have to wait, especially when there is an entire thrilling township to explore.

Sightseeing in Prince Rupert

Museum of Northern BC

From the outside, the Museum of Northern BC is styled after an aboriginal longhouse, adorned with hand carved messages and striking pillars. As spectacular as its façade is, it can’t match up to the historical marvels displayed inside, some of which date back thousands of years. The exhibitions include Haida, Gitskan and Tsimshian primitive art, as well as an incredible collection of totem poles handcrafted by some of the first settlers to reach British Columbia.

Khutzeymateen

At over 44,300 hectares in size, this huge bear sanctuary offers an incredibly diverse landscape of hills, mountain peaks and pine forests. The first area in Canada established in order to protect the habitat of the native bear species, Khutzeymateen is surrounded by peaks that reach heights of over 2100 metres, and is home to some of the richest salmon streams anywhere in the world.

This is probably the reason why black and brown bears flourish in the hills of the sanctuary, raising their young in peace. The speciality of the park is controlled viewing platforms that let you get closer than you’ve ever been to these magnificent creatures, as they go about hunting in their natural habitats.  

Butze Rapids Interpretive Trail

This breathtaking trail is simple to reach from Prince Rupert, and is perfect for a casual hike that nevertheless rewards you with the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness. The trail passes through ancient forests, swamps and eventually, the Butze rapids themselves. These unusual waterways ebb and flow around Kaien Island, creating the phenomenon of reversing tidal rapids and extreme tide ranges. To get the finest view of the rapids, head to the lookout point halfway up the trail, which gives you a panoramic look at the splendour of Butze.

Shopping in Prince Rupert

For the latest modern art, take a trip to the ice house gallery, which houses contemporary pieces by the finest local artists.

Eating out in Prince Rupert

Cow bay café offers superb cuisine served in a warm, friendly establishment. The menu at this locally revered bistro is always changing, so there are constantly innovative delicacies to try out whatever time of year. A constant however, is the quality of the meat, which is served up cooked to perfection.