April will see the return of large cruise ships docked in the Prince Rupert Harbour as the Cruise Port prepares for record passengers.
In 2025, the Prince Rupert Cruise Terminal saw over 60,000 passengers visit the city of rainbows in the summer with more than double that is expected this cruise season. With the large increase in passengers, the Cruise Port has been working with its partners to ensure guests have a positive experience in the city, said Cruise Port general manager Steve Finnigan.
“In preparation for the upcoming cruise season and the expected increase in passengers, the Prince Rupert Cruise Port has been working closely with key partners to ensure both the port and the community are ready to welcome more visitors.” Finnigan said.
“We’ve been collaborating with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Prince Rupert Port Authority, and the municipal government to ensure the city is well prepared to manage the additional passenger traffic, at the same time, we’ve worked with local shareholders and tour operators to develop new excursions that allow guests to experience more of what Prince Rupert has to offer while supporting local businesses.”
Along with the increase in passengers, the cruise port is also expected to receive more ships more often this season, Finnigan said.
“Prince Rupert will see a significant increase in cruise activity this season compared to last year. In 2025, the port welcomed 42 cruise calls across 39 different days. In 2026, that number will grow to 78 cruise calls over 64 days, meaning the community will see cruise ships in port much more frequently throughout the season. With the increase in cruise calls, we will also see more days where multiple ships are visiting at the same time, That means additional opportunities for local businesses, tour operators, and retailers to welcome visitors to Prince Rupert.”
The increase in passengers will create both challenges and economic opportunities for the city, so the cruise port held an event with partners to discuss potential issues and opportunities, Finnigan said.
“The Cruise Port hosted the first-ever Prince Rupert Cruise Connect event, bringing together local tour operators, retailers, and restaurant providers to discuss collaboration, share best practices, and identify opportunities to improve the cruise guest experience. Cruise Connect was really about strengthening communication with our local stakeholders. Going forward, one of our key priorities is ensuring businesses have the information they need as early as possible so they can plan ahead and be fully prepared for the season.”
One of the biggest challenges the Cruise Port will face is two days with three cruise calls, said Finnigan.
“A few dates will require particular coordination. June 9 and August 18 are scheduled as triple-ship days, when the city could welcome approximately 6,000 passengers, in addition to crew, in a single day. We’ve been working closely with our partners, including the Prince Rupert Port Authority, the City of Prince Rupert, CBSA, and local businesses to ensure we are prepared for these larger days and that visitors have a great experience in the community.”
