( It will stay light until about 8pm)
This will be our last stop on the cruise. About 15,000 people live on Kaien Island which is about 480 miles north of Vancouver, BC. The town of Prince Rupert was named after Prince Rupert of the Rhine. The Tsimshian Nation is the indigenous First Nations people to live in the Prince Rupert area. Prince Rupert holds the title of rainiest city in Canada, with about 2500 mm of precipitation annually. The island is connected to the mainland by a bridge and rail line. The main industry is fishing - especially sports fishing for folks that come here just for that. It also has a pulp mill which is supplied by logging elsewhere. We will arrive here at 4pm and leave at 10pm which will limit what we can do. Sunset on our arrival date will be 8:03pm and we can expect a temperature of 58-60 degrees.
Here is a short history and overview of this port: http://www.youtube.com/v/Ege4hHH_xoo&hl.
Most of our ports of call are very small towns which means you can walk to many if not most of the attractions.
Here are some that the locals recommend.
.Pacific Mariners Memorial Park, between the foot of McBride St and the Northland Terminal. Note the two focal points of the Park: one being the bronze Mariner's statue and Memorial Walls, the other the Shinto Shrine which was built for the "Kazu Maru", a Japanese fishing dingy that drifted across the Pacific Ocean from Prince Rupert's sister-city Owase in Japan.
The Museum of Northern British Columbia, W. First Ave., is located on the downtown waterfront at the foot of McBride St (Hwy 16). It tells the story of the 10,000 year old history of the Haida, Tsimishian, Tlingit, and Nisga. Open to 8pm in summer. Adult $5. Museum also operates the Carving Shed and the Kwinitsa Station.
First Nations Carving Shed (1-800-667-1994), located just a block from the Museum of Northern British Columbia, features artists and carvers of the region, creating everything from sculpture and totems to jewelry, working with silver, copper, cedarwood and gold.
Totem Park at Hospital Lookout is home to many of Prince Rupert's totem poles.
NCL shore excursions
Canada's Wilderness by FloatplaneA floatplane is the only way to truly appreciate the awe-inspiring scenery of "Beautiful British Columbia." This journey will take you through some of Mother Nature’s greatest works. Fly over lush rainforest, deep valleys, rugged mountain fjords and spectacular glaciers. Pass cascading waterfalls, winding rivers and remote freshwater lakes. Photographers, be ready as you may see wildlife such as eagles, mountain goats, seals, porpoises, or whales. Your flight will set down in a majestic inlet where you’ll float alongside a glacial waterfall as it plunges down the rocky mountain fjord. Note: Weight surcharge does not apply. Guests confined to wheelchairs should notify the onboard Shore Excursions Desk upon embarkation. This tour is non-refundable.
Approx. Duration: 1.5 hrs Adult Pricing: $239 Child Pricing: $199
Whales & Marine Life Discovery Cruise
Be inspired as we introduce you to the marine environment near Prince Rupert, home to transient, resident killer, and humpback whales. You may see these gentle giants emerge along with porpoises, seals, stellar sea lions and eagles. Your guide will provide you with commentary on the various marine species as well as the local communities and surrounding area. Experience the beauty of the northern coastline and the creatures that bring it to life!
Note: To fully enjoy this tour, we recommend you dress in layers and bring a jacket. Binoculars are provided for viewing wildlife. Disposable rain ponchos are provided if necessary. Whales are regularly seen, but not guaranteed. Guests confined to wheelchairs should notify the onboard Shore Excursions Desk upon embarkation. This tour can ONLY be booked on the ship.
Approx. Duration: 4 hrs Adult Pricing: $129 Child Pricing: $89
Butze Rainforest Nature Walk
Whales & Marine Life Discovery Cruise
Be inspired as we introduce you to the marine environment near Prince Rupert, home to transient, resident killer, and humpback whales. You may see these gentle giants emerge along with porpoises, seals, stellar sea lions and eagles. Your guide will provide you with commentary on the various marine species as well as the local communities and surrounding area. Experience the beauty of the northern coastline and the creatures that bring it to life!
Note: To fully enjoy this tour, we recommend you dress in layers and bring a jacket. Binoculars are provided for viewing wildlife. Disposable rain ponchos are provided if necessary. Whales are regularly seen, but not guaranteed. Guests confined to wheelchairs should notify the onboard Shore Excursions Desk upon embarkation. This tour can ONLY be booked on the ship.
Approx. Duration: 4 hrs Adult Pricing: $129 Child Pricing: $89
Depart by bus for a short drive to the Butze Rapids Trail for a guided walk through the temperate rainforest. Take pictures and experience the lush plant life as your experienced guides describe the various plants and trees and their importance in traditional Native medicine and the food chain. Your destination is the viewing platform of the Butze Rapids. These unique tidal rapids reverse direction with the tides: while peaceful at high and low tide, they roar with white foam while the ocean tide is rising or falling. Note: The path is approximately 2.8 miles on a walking trail with some steep, short inclines. Wear good walking shoes.
Approx. Duration: 2.75 hrs Adult Pricing: $59 Child Pricing: $49
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