Situated off the shores of continental BC, on secluded Kaien Island, Prince Rupert is the land, air, and water transportation hub of the North Coast. The city sits at the mouth of the Skeena River, surrounded by Chatham Sound and many small, uninhabited islands. Set against this spectacular backdrop of mountains and sea, the little marine city is steeped with history of the Pacific Northwest.
Main attractions in the port town include spectacular ocean fishing, cultural tours, whale-watching and grizzly bear-viewing tours in the Khutzeymateen. You will most certainly enjoy amazingly fresh seafood at Prince Rupert’s various trendy restaurants. Situated on the migratory salmon routes of the north coast waters, it’s rich in salmon, giant halibut, rockfish, lingcod, crab and prawns. And it’s not uncommon to see tame deer wander certain neighbourhood streets and yards!
Tourism, especially the cruise ships, has become increasingly important as an economic stimulus.
Trade, as in the past, is still the most important financial driver for this community. Tons of goods pass daily through the Prince Rupert port, which was recently expanded (now the 3rd largest in Canada), heading to and from Asia and the rest of Canada.
Prince Rupert is also a gateway for many more destinations. Ferries to Haida Gwaii (Queen Charlotte Islands), Vancouver Island and Alaska start and begin their passages here.
Prince Rupert Regional Hospital offers X-ray, Mammography, Ultrasound, Bone Densitometry, CT, Echocardiography, an Emergency Department, and an acute care ward. Other NHA facilities include Public & Mental Health services, & Assisted Living care.