With cruise season wrapped up, the Prince Rupert Cruise Terminal looks to build on this year’s success.
The PRCT had a slight increase in passengers from last year. With the rapid growth around the port, it is no surprise that the PRCT also saw an increase in passengers this year with even more expected next year. The city will benefit from an increase in cruise ship dockings, said PRCT general manager Steve Finnigan.
“Next season we are expecting an increase from 42 calls to 78 calls so the Cruise industry will create more opportunities for local businesses and more employment for the community. PRCT will continue to work closely with our tour partners to promote, refine and develop the tour offerings. This serves to expand the economic impact from cruise tourism in Prince Rupert.”
The success of this cruise season was largely helped by tourist attractions such as the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary and large recreational fishing opportunities. Without the support of the community, the cruise port wouldn’t have been this successful, said Finnigan
“The main impact on the success of the cruise season was community involvement, our passionate team at PRCT and the partnerships Prince Rupert has developed within the cruise industry. Our city has been able to witness a positive impact on the economy generated by cruises. Our locals want to show the world the beauty and the culture of the Great Bear Rainforest.”
It takes lots of work to prepare for the first cruise call, said Finnigan
“We need to hire and train local staff. We are looking for locals to share their pride of place and local knowledge with our visiting guests. We will continue to work closely with tour operators and the wider community to both expand the benefit to local businesses and increase the menu of experiences offered to our visitors.”
