Prince Rupert Cruise Port Celebrates Record-Breaking Season with Final Inaugural Call of 2026
Prince Rupert Cruise Port (PRCP) celebrated another milestone in an extraordinary year for cruise tourism as Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ Seven Seas Explorer made its inaugural visit on Sunday, September 27, marking the final first-time vessel call of a record-breaking 2026 season.
The arrival was a fitting addition to a year of remarkable growth for Prince Rupert, with cruise calls more than doubling from 38 in 2025 to 79 in 2026. Passenger visitation was also projected to increase significantly, from approximately 65,000 guests last year to an estimated 138,264 in 2026, reflecting the destination’s growing appeal among international cruise lines and travellers.
Carrying 678 passengers and 547 crew members, Seven Seas Explorer brought another opportunity to showcase the beauty, culture and hospitality of British Columbia’s North Coast. Guests had access to a diverse selection of shore experiences, from wildlife and outdoor adventures to Indigenous cultural experiences, local culinary discoveries and sightseeing, creating opportunities for businesses and tourism operators throughout the community.
The PRCP team commemorated the event with a traditional plaque exchange ceremony, joining Captain Luca Morvillo and his crew onboard with representatives from the Prince Rupert Port Authority (PRPA) and the City of Prince Rupert.
“This season marks a significant step forward for cruise tourism in Prince Rupert,” said Steve Finnigan, General Manager, PRCP. “More cruise lines are discovering the value of including Prince Rupert in their itineraries, with brands such as The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Viking and Virgin Voyages joining us this season. This kind of growth brings more opportunities for local businesses and tourism operators, and we’re focused on turning that momentum into meaningful and sustainable value for our community.”
From Indigenous cultural performers and tour operators to volunteer ambassadors, restaurants and retailers, the season demonstrated the community-wide collaboration that helps make Prince Rupert a distinctive cruise destination.
As PRCP looks ahead, the focus remains on building stronger partnerships, expanding opportunities for local participation and ensuring that the benefits of cruise tourism continue to reach businesses and communities across the region.
Pictured from left to right are: David Vanderstelt, PRPA Harbour Master; Ben Shuttleworth, PRCP Shore Excursions Associate; Luca Morvillo, Regent Seven Seas Explorer Captain; Steve Finnigan, PRCP General Manager; Zosia Stevenson, PRCP Marketing & Operations Coordinator. Photo courtesy of PRPA.
