Continuing on with our theme of trip extensions, next up on our list is extending your stay in Prince Rupert: the launching off point for our Khutzeymateen trips, and either the port of return or departure for our Southeast Alaska trips. Khutzeymateen and Southeast Alaska offer incredible spring wildlife viewing, and after Haida Gwaii, are our second and third trip itinerary to set sail for the season. After going the distance to reach this small, northern, coastal town – why not stay a little longer?
Why Extend Your Trip?
Regardless if you are coming from overseas or from right here in Vancouver, extending your trip helps reduce your flight carbon footprint and also puts money back into the small, coastal communities we operate out of. As regenerative and sustainable travel are core pillars of our operations, staying two or three extra days before or after your trip is always something we recommend.
Prince Rupert: Getting There
Prince Rupert, like Haida Gwaii, has the opportunity for guests to arrive by three modes of transportation: plane, ferry, or car. For Khutzeymateen trips that operate on a loop, guests will depart from and return to Prince Rupert, making leaving a car in town a possibility. For those who are traveling to Southeast Alaska, check your itinerary to see if you are arriving back to, or departing from, Prince Rupert as that will affect your travel plans.
- By Plane: Prince Rupert is serviced by Air Canada with one flight daily from Vancouver, arriving into Prince Rupert around 3:00pm, and departing Prince Rupert around 3:30pm.
- By Car: If time allows, a road trip up to Prince Rupert is — way to experience the range of beauty British Columbia has to offer. Taking roughly 18 hours from Vancouver airport, the drive winds north through mountain ranges, into the dessert landscapes of Cache Creek, onward through lake districts, and then through the mountain ranges of the north arriving into your final destination of Prince Rupert, gateway to the Khutzeymateen. There are many options for car rentals from the Vancouver airport, or if you’re doing a linear trip and only departing from Prince Rupert, there is a National & Enterprise car rental office.
- By Ferry: It is possible to take a ferry up the famous Inside Passage to access Prince Rupert. Departing from Port Hardy on the northeastern tip of Vancouver Island, the ferry travels along the –. Departing at 7:30am from Port Hardy and with a sailing time of 16.5 hours, this ferry runs every other day, so be sure to check the BC Ferries schedule prior to booking. To take the ferry, you can either drive on, or walk on as a foot passenger.
Where to Stay
From quaint bed & breakfasts with lots of coastal charm, to more upscale hotels with dining options, Prince Rupert has no shortage of guest accommodations. Browse through the variety of accommodations here to find a stay that fits you best.
Things to Do
With a year-round population of just over 12,000, Prince Rupert becomes a hot spot for tourists and adventurers alike.
- Outdoor Adventure: Looking to hike, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or venture further into the wilderness, Prince Rupert has many possibilities to experience the raw wilderness of the north
- Cannery History: Browse through the national historic site and museum of BC oldest surviving salmon cannery
- First Nations: The Museum of Northern BC has an extensive and beautiful collection of art and artifacts showcasing the history and culture of the First Nations people who have called the north coast home for thousands of year.
Need some inspiration on how to spend your extra day or two? The Prince Rupert tourism website has some example itineraries to help guide folks in creating a memorable stay.
Places to Eat
From dockside pubs to refined, local seafood, to a quick coffee & pastry, food in Prince Rupert is focused on fresh, local ingredients highlighting all that Prince Rupert has access to.
We’re Here to Help
If extending your coastal adventure on either side of your Bluewater trip is something you’re interested in, please contact the office to run over your tentative plan so we can confirm it aligns with your trip departure and arrival needs. Hoping to explore more of BC but not sure where to start? We’re also happy to help offer some guidance.
