Meet Daniel Karakochuk, Excursions Operations Manager
Behind every successful cruise call in Prince Rupert is a team working diligently to create memorable experiences for guests. One of those team members is Daniel Karakochuk, Excursions Operations Manager at Prince Rupert Cruise Port.
Since joining the team in 2024, Daniel has played an important role in cruise operations and shore excursion development. Working closely with local tour operators and cruise line partners, he helps ensure visitors have opportunities to experience the very best of Prince Rupert during their time ashore.
According to Daniel, there is no such thing as a typical day during cruise season.
“The honest answer is that there really isn’t a typical day,” he says. “Every ship, every guest, and every operational challenge is a little different.”
His days can involve everything from fine-tuning excursions with local operators and coordinating transportation logistics to meeting with cruise line representatives and welcoming ships alongside. While the pace can be demanding, Daniel finds the work rewarding.
“Cruise days can be long, but it’s incredibly rewarding to see everything come together and know that thousands of guests had a great experience in our community.”
One of Daniel’s favourite parts of the cruise season is watching visitors discover Prince Rupert for the first time.
“We get to see our hometown through fresh eyes every day,” he explains. Whether guests are spotting a bald eagle, enjoying the waterfront scenery, or learning about the history and cultures that make the region unique, he enjoys seeing those moments of discovery unfold.
As cruise tourism continues to grow in Prince Rupert, Daniel is particularly excited about the opportunities it creates for local businesses and residents.
“Every new tour, partnership, and visitor helps support our community and showcases what makes Prince Rupert different from anywhere else on the coast,” he says. “I believe we are still only scratching the surface of what Prince Rupert can offer cruise guests.”
For Daniel, the most important part of any visit is the connection guests make with the community itself.
“More than anything, I hope guests leave remembering the people,” he shares. “We have world-class scenery, wildlife, and history, but what truly makes Prince Rupert special is the community.”
His goal is simple: for visitors to feel genuinely welcomed, leave with lasting memories, and perhaps even begin planning a return visit.
“If they leave wanting to come back, we’ve done our job.”
Thank you, Daniel, for your dedication to creating exceptional experiences for cruise guests and helping showcase Prince Rupert to visitors from around the world.