Vancouver - British Columbia - Prince Rupert
Passengers on several cruise lines, among them Norwegian Cruise, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Regent, sailing the Inside Passage heading for Alaska, have discovered a fascinating port-of-call on the northern coast of British Columbia where eagles, bears, and whales outnumber people.
Prince Rupert, only a short distance from Ketchikan in Alaska, is renowned for its sport fishing (salmon and halibut) and wildlife viewing.
The most popular shore excursions include whale and bear watching; river jet boating; and activity-focused tours such as kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. Other popular excursions include the Northcoast Explorer train trip along the scenic Skeena Valley which stops at the North Pacific Cannery Museum.
Built in 1889, the Pacific Historic Fishing Village in Prince Rupert features tours and live performances that provide an entertaining look at life in a cannery village. The Museum of Northern BC houses artifacts from the regionÕs fur-trading history and exhibits the ancient and modern histories of the region, including a detailed look at the Native Americans of the Pacific Northwest.
Visitors to Prince Rupert also have the option of a day trip to the Khutzeymateen Valley, a wildlife refuge ideal for viewing grizzly bears and other wildlife .
Visitors to Prince Rupert will find a wide variety of hotels, motels and lodges in or close to the downtown area.
Photo courtesy Lonnie Wishart