PRINCE RUPERT — The Port of Prince Rupert today released its 2018 cruise schedule in anticipation of another strong season for cruise tourism on British Columbia’s north coast.
A total of 25 vessels carrying approximately 12,600 passengers will dock at Prince Rupert’s Northland Cruise Terminal in 2018, representing the city’s second-biggest season since 2011.
“After reviewing our Passenger Exit Surveys, we are happy to report that the feedback we collected was overwhelmingly positive with regards to overall impressions of our community,” said Brian Friesen, Director of Trade Development and Communications for the Port of Prince Rupert.
“The work that we’ve undertaken in recent years with Tourism Prince Rupert and local businesses to improve our reputation as a cruise destination is certainly coming to fruition.”
Prince Rupert has become increasingly popular with luxury cruise lines operating in the Alaska market, and has positioned itself as a full-service port of call with unique attractions and excursions.
Most cruise lines visiting Prince Rupert in 2018 operate vessels with between 200-900 passengers, enabling nearly every disembarking passenger to take advantage of a shore excursion offering.
The Port of Prince Rupert also invested significant capital in 2017 to undertake waterfront improvement projects that will benefit visitors and residents alike, including a new public promenade adjacent to the Northland Cruise Terminal and the revitalization of the 1.5-kilometre Rushbrook Trail.
“These projects represent the Port of Prince Rupert’s continued efforts to enhance year-round waterfront access, as well as improving the flow of cruise passengers looking to experience the best of Prince Rupert during the visit,” said Friesen.
“We’re looking forward to construction being completed in time for the first vessel call of 2018, giving passengers more opportunities to take in our beautiful harbour vistas.”
The 2018 season will see the return of vessels from Oceania Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn Cruise Line, Crystal Cruises, Silversea Cruises, and Ponant. This year will also see Windstar Cruises call on Prince Rupert for the first time, with a total of five visits from its 208-passenger Star Legend vessel.
