Plan a CruiseYour cruise ship will dock conveniently near the center of Prince Rupert, utilizing new cruise facilities. From the dock, it's about a 10-minute uphill walk to reach the main town area. While Prince Rupert is renowned as the "Fishing Capital of Canada's Northwest Coast" due to its prime location on the Hecate Strait, visitors will discover much more to explore beyond fishing. Be prepared for rain, as the city experiences an average of 220 rainy days a year.
Getting Around from the Port
Most of Prince Rupert's attractions are accessible on foot from the cruise dock. The walk into the main town area is approximately 10 minutes uphill. For destinations further afield, taxis are readily available, with rides anywhere in town typically costing between five and ten Canadian dollars. Many boat tours and excursions, including those offered by Adventure Tour's Excursions, depart from the Atlin Terminal, which is conveniently located adjacent to the cruise ship dock.
Attractions and Activities
- Na Xbiisa Lagigyet (Museum of Northern British Columbia): Located a short walk from the dock, this museum, whose name means "Treasure Box of the Ancient Ones" in Tsimshian, offers spectacular views of Prince Rupert harbor. Admission is $6.57 USD. Explore artifacts reflecting ancient ways of life alongside contemporary art by local First Nations people. Nearby, a carving shed showcases local artists transforming copper, silver, gold, and argillite into unique works. During summer evenings, the museum also hosts performances dramatizing Prince Rupert's history.
- Cow Bay: Just a 10-minute walk from the cruise terminal, Cow Bay is a charming district known for its shops painted in distinctive black and white cow spots. It's a pleasant area for a stroll and browsing.
Dining & Shopping
For unique shopping experiences, head to Cow Bay, located just a 10-minute walk from the dock. This charming area features shops distinctively painted with black and white cow spots, offering a variety of local goods and souvenirs. While specific restaurants aren't detailed, Cow Bay is a good starting point for local shops.
Currency and Language
The local currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). Major credit cards are widely accepted. You'll find ATMs in many grocery stores and other commercial areas, which are typically linked to international networks such as Cirrus, Plus, Star, and Maestro. While you can get cash advances using a major credit card at ATMs, be aware that this method often incurs a service fee and immediate interest charges. English is the predominant language spoken in Prince Rupert, as it is throughout most of Canada outside of Quebec and New Brunswick.