PRINCE RUPERT, BRITISH COLUMBIA

*Prince Rupert tours are available on Norwegian Sun & Norwegian Star UNLESS otherwise noted on the tour description.

Prince Rupert Deluxe Highlights

North Pacific Heritage Village & Seafood Bake

Northcoast Native Culture: Tsimshian Ceremony

Whales & Marine Life Discovery Cruise

Marine Life Harbor Cruise

Kaien Island Reversing Rapids

Ksee Yaen Back Country Adventure

Laxspa'aws - Pike Island Cultural Tour

Exchamsiks River Nature & Jetboat Tour

Whales & Marine Life Encounter by Zodiac

Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Viewing

Granite Wall Climb & Rappel

Morse Basin Kayak Adventure

Butze Rainforest Nature Walk

Tsimshian Cultural Kayak

Tsimshian Traditional Canoe Quest & Rainforest Hike

Historic Raincoast Bike Tour

PRINCE RUPERT DELUXE HIGHLIGHTS Approximate Duration: 3 1/2 hours Level 1 / Family Recommended

Visit the area’s most popular attractions as you tour this picturesque Canadian community. You will hear about ancient warfare in the inner harbor, learn about the diverse cultural origins of the community, its role in WWII and its place in the new economy. Visit Kwinitsa, one of the last surviving Grand Trunk Railway stations and historic downtown. Get a sense of the rugged landscape as you travel to North Pacific, a National Historic site on “cannery row” near the Skeena River for a tour with time to stroll the boardwalk and explore the heritage fishing village. Your visit wraps up at the Museum of Northern BC with a guided tour and free time to browse the remarkable collection and gift shop before returning to your ship.
Note: Order of tour may vary.

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NORTH PACIFIC HERITAGE VILLAGE & SEAFOOD BAKE Approximate Duration: 3 hours Level 1 / Family Recommended / Meal

Step into the past with a visit to North Pacific, the oldest fishing village left on the west coast. You will get a sense of the bygone fishing era in the ghost town-like setting on the river, as you walk the boardwalks and explore buildings from the last century. You’ll see original belt-driven equipment, displays of fishing methods, hand-canning lines and rustic cannery docks. Many of the site’s 18 buildings are open to the public, including the old cannery store and company office with authentic ledgers, as well as the compact managers’ houses. The fresh air is sure to whet your appetite for a delicious meal of salmon or halibut in the Skeena River Cafe.

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NORTHCOAST NATIVE CULTURE: TSIMSHIAN CEREMONY Approximate Duration: 2 1/2 hours Level 1 / Physically Limited

Begin your experience of Tsimshian culture and ceremony at the Museum of Northern BC, where you will see 200-year-old examples of ceremonial regalia and learn about the Tsimshian Feast. Then proceed to the media room, where you will view images of the ecosystems and wildlife from which the Tsimshian derive their lifestyle, artifacts and ceremonies. The highlight of your experience will take place at the Tsimshian longhouse, where you will be guests at a small feast. Here, you will witness dancing and performances, hear ancient stories and songs and taste indigenous foods.
Note: Wheelchair access may be limited – for details please consult your Shore Excursion staff before booking.

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WHALES & MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY CRUISE Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 1 / Family Recommended / Outerwear

This four-hour cruise introduces you to the marine environment near Prince Rupert, home to transient and resident killer whales and humpbacks. You may also see porpoise playing alongside the boat, as well as seals, stellar sea lions, puffins and eagles. Your guide will provide you with commentary on the various marine species that you may encounter and information on the local communities and surrounding area.
Note: To fully enjoy this tour, we recommend you dress in layers and bring a jacket. Binoculars are provided for viewing wildlife. Disposable rain ponchos are provided if necessary. Whales are regularly seen, but not guaranteed.

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MARINE LIFE HARBOR CRUISE Approximate Duration: 2 3/4 hours Level 1 / Family Recommended / Meal

Enjoy an informative, fun and tasty introduction to the North Coast Marine Life. Our one-of-a-kind 150-gallon touch tank aquarium is used by a local marine biologist to educate you about sea cucumbers, Dungeness crab, octopus, starfish, anemones and many other creatures. On our voyage we will stop to pull up crab traps and those who dare can have a hands-on experience. Journey past Dodge Cove, Metlakatla – a Tsimshian First Nations Village, while seeking out seals, porpoises and a local hotspot known for viewing eagles. A North Coast salmon croissant, seasonal fresh fruit, cheddar cheese, crackers and choice of chilled Canadian water or hot chocolate is served. Dungeness crab with garlic butter cooked fresh on the back deck is served for an additional fee.

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KAIEN ISLAND REVERSING RAPIDS Approximate Duration: 2 hours Level 1

Be prepared for a truly memorable experience as you explore the marine environment of the north coast. You will be taken by boat through the reversing tidal rapids at Butze Rapids and Zanardi Rapids on an adventure with informed commentary by experienced local skippers. You will also see the WWII military installations, Seal Cove’s busy Float Plane Base and the Coast Guard Base. There is also a good possibility of sighting porpoise, harbor seals and eagles.

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KSEE YAEN BACK COUNTRY ADVENTURE Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 1 / Family Recommended / Meal

Ksee Yaen (Ksee-mist, Yaen-river) is the Tsimshian Indian name for the pristine Skeena River, believed to be the longest un-dammed river the world. Your guide will escort you on an air-conditioned motorcoach through Prince Rupert, the Coast Mountains and to the beautiful Skeena Valley to our camp site, an approximately 55-minute trip. Your Native Indian guide will be there to meet you and will explain the language, culture and history of their people. A unique meal consisting of local wild salmon will be served with traditional Indian delicacies: oolichan fish, seaweed, bannock bread, and more, all prepared by a Native Indian chef. Before leaving, you will take an exhilarating jetboat ride on the mighty Skeena. Bears, moose, seals, wolves and eagles frequent the river.
Note: Wildlife sightings are frequent but cannot be guaranteed.

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LAXSPA’AWS – PIKE ISLAND CULTURAL TOUR Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 1 / Meal

This guided tour takes you to a pristine coastal rainforest island on the traditional lands of the Tsimshian people. Your First Nation guide will provide insight into the history of the Tsimshian Nation, which encompasses more than 10,000 years! You will have an opportunity to walk on groomed trails and see significant archaeological sites. Here in the heart of Tsimshian territory, you will learn some traditional uses for the lush local plant life and view some ancient rock art and village sites. The tour of the island concludes at the hand-built solid cedar Traditional Longhouse, complete with a center fire-pit, vented roof, lots of seating and a cedar deck with a beautiful view. Here, you will enjoy a delicious barbequed salmon meal complete with baked potato, bun, and an assortment of beverages.
Note: We recommend you wear comfortable walking shoes, dress in layers and bring a jacket. There is an approximate 90 minutes of walking on a well-groomed path less than one mile long.

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EXCHAMSIKS RIVER NATURE & JETBOAT TOUR Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 1 / Meal / Age Restrictions

Board an air-conditioned bus for a guided 55-minute scenic drive through the Coast Mountains and along the valley of the mighty Skeena River. Upon arrival at the Exchamsiks Provincial Park, a naturalist guide will be on hand to take you on a 20-minute walk through an old growth forest, where cedar and spruce trees reach heights in excess of 200 feet. Fresh wild salmon cooked beneath a 4,000-foot vertical cliff will be served. The highlight of the tour will be a 30-minute jetboat ride on the river.

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WHALES & MARINE LIFE ENCOUNTER BY ZODIAC Approximate Duration: 3 hours Level 2 / Family Recommended / Meal / Age Restrictions

Board a 29-foot, 12 passengers Rigid-Hulled Zodiac for an exciting ride to the whale viewing grounds, safely reaching speeds of 50 mph with twin 200 Horse Power engines. The vessel is operated by a certified skipper and is equipped with comfortable seats and all necessary equipment. While whales are our main objection, the tour is aimed to be a complete nature experience with an array of other marine wildlife residing in these waters.
Note: Participants must be at least 7 years of age. This tour is not recommended for persons with back or neck problems, pregnant women and anyone with health concerns. We recommend you wear comfortable clothing and dress warmly. You will be outfitted with full body oater suits and safety glasses. Participants must be agile enough to enter and exit the vessel and navigate the ramp to the dock, and also sign a waiver.

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*Prince Rupert tour(s) also available for pre-booking on Norwegian Star, Norwegian Sun & Norwegian Wind.

KHUTZEYMATEEN GRIZZLY BEAR VIEWING Approximate Duration: 6 hours Level 1 / Meal / Outerwear

This tour is ONLY AVAILABLE for guests on Norwegian Star.
Experience an exciting boat excursion to view grizzly and black bears in their summer habitat in the Khutzeymateen Valley. Rocky coastal mountains, ancient rainforest, and diverse river valley ecosystems fill the sanctuary, providing a home to one of the highest concentrations of Grizzly Bears in North America. This tour is designed to provide you with the utmost in safety, without intruding on the bears’ natural activities. The tour departs from Prince Rupert and on the journey north you will cruise past two native villages, Metlakatla and Port Simpson. Your professional guides will provide a commentary on the villages as well as the marine environment. Keep your eyes open for sea birds and eagles. Porpoises are also often seen jumping through the wake of the vessel and, as you pass Work Channel, you may see resident humpback whales.
Note: To fully enjoy this tour we recommend you dress in layers and bring a jacket. Binoculars are provided for viewing wildlife. Disposable rain ponchos are provided if necessary. A delicious lunch and a selection of beverages will be served. Bears are regularly seen but not guaranteed.

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PRINCE RUPERT DIVE IN TO ADVENTURE™

GRANITE WALL CLIMB & RAPPEL Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 3 / Age & Weight Restrictions

The Skeena River Valley is home to some spectacular granite cliffs. A 25-minute motorcoach ride takes you to Tyee, the site of one of the best! Your guide will lead you on a hike through lush coastal rainforest to a spectacular viewpoint offering commanding views of the Skeena River and the rugged Coast Mountains. Pull on your climbing harness and rappelling gear, clip into the rope and rappel down an overhung rock face. You will be in the safe and capable hands of an experienced team of instructors, all certified by the Association of Canada Mountain Guides.
Note: Participants must be at least 15 years of age, weigh between 70 lbs. and 250 lbs., in good physical condition and must sign a waiver. All necessary equipment is provided.

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MORSE BASIN KAYAK ADVENTURE Approximate Duration: 3 1/2 hours Level 2 / Outerwear / Age Restrictions

See the beauty of the Great Bear Rainforest of the Pacific Northwest. Kayak at the foot of the mountains as they rise from the sea to reach for the sky. Watch the eagles soar high above and see the seals as they check out the kayaks that have entered their domain. Paddle the coastal tidal range and enjoy the spectacular sea life of plant and animal that call it home.
Note: Participants must be at least 8 years of age. Approximate time on kayak is 3 hours. Raingear will be provided.

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BUTZE RAINFOREST NATURE WALK Approximate Duration: 2 1/2 hours Level 2 / Outerwear

Depart by bus for the 10-minute drive to the Butze Rapid trail. Your journey along the trail through a true rainforest will last approximately two hours. Guides will describe the various plants and trees and their importance in traditional Native medicines and culture, as well as their importance in the food chain. The unique tidal rapids reverse direction with the tides, peaceful at high and low tides and roaring with white foam when the ocean tide is flowing.
Note: The path is an approximate 2.7 miles on a walking trail with some steep, short inclines. If necessary, rain ponchos will be provided. Wear good walking shoes.

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TSIMSHIAN CULTURAL KAYAK Approximate Duration: 4 1/2 hours Level 2 / Family Recommended / Meal / Outerwear / Age Restrictions

Before beginning your kayak excursion, take a 25-minute ferry transfer to Metlakatla – a Tsimshian First Nation village. First-time kayaker? No worries as your guides provide an introduction to kayaking and safety before departing on a kayaking journey through time. Visit mysterious petroglyphs and ancient village sites of the Tsimshian people and learn about our ancestor’s way of life.
Note: Participants must be at least 10 years of age. Paddling duration is approximately three hours, with stops along the way. We recommend you dress in layers and bring a jacket. Rain ponchos will be provided if needed. A delicious lunch and a selection of beverages will be served.

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TSIMSHIAN TRADITIONAL CANOE QUEST & RAINFOREST HIKE Approximate Duration: 4 hours Level 2 / Family Recommended / Age Restrictions

Experience a scenic and informative cruise across the harbor as you assist in paddling one of two 29 foot Voyageur canoes. This excursion is an authentic journey back to the days of old. Experience the means of travel that propelled the resilient Tsimshian First Nations people to their fishing and hunting grounds. This traditional style canoe is both safe and fun. Watch for eagles and seals as guides ensure the safety of all onboard. Our destination is McNichol Creek Beach, which, at low tide, harbors one of Prince Rupert’s sandiest beaches. Upon arrival at the beach, leave the canoe and explore the lush, old growth rainforest. The walk will eventually lead to McNichol Creek, which is a salmon spawning stream, and at certain times of the year salmon can be observed making their upstream trek, while dodging the razor sharp talons of the resident bald eagles. After the walk, return to the beach to cook a few crabs and indulge in some other snacks and beverages.
Note: Participants must be at least 10 years of age and must be agile enough to enter and exit the vessel and navigate the ramp to the dock. Approximate paddle time on canoe is 30 minutes. The trail is approximately a 30-40 minute return hike, with an approximate hike
distance of one mile.

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HISTORIC RAINCOAST BIKE TOUR Approximate Duration: 2 hours Level 2 / Outerwear / Age Restrictions

Your tour takes you along the Prince Rupert waterfront, where you will learn the history and culture of this vibrant port city. Enter one of Prince Rupert’s oldest residential districts to experience the architectural styles brought here by the first pioneers. The tour then takes you inside the northern temperate rainforest, and the final part of the tour leads across Acropolis Hill, the site of “Little America”.
Note: Participants must be at least 12 years of age. Bikes used are 2004 Norco Kokanee multi-speed, front suspension, aluminum framed bikes (17-20”). Helmets are provided. We recommend you wear comfortable, breathable, athletic pants or shorts and sneakers.
Equipment is provided. We recommend you dress in layers. If necessary, rain ponchos will be provided.

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