MEDIA

22 Apr 2026

Prince Rupert Cruise Port Welcomes Holland America's Noordam to Kick Off Landmark 2026 Cruise Season

Prince Rupert Cruise Port has officially launched its 2026 cruise season, marking the start of a milestone year defined by significant growth, strong partnerships, and increasing global interest in the destination.

The season began with the arrival of the first cruise ship of the year, Holland America’s Noordam. Over 1900 passengers were greeted by the energy of the community, setting a positive tone for what is expected to be Prince Rupert’s busiest cruise season to date.

Building on recent momentum, Prince Rupert is preparing to welcome approximately 145,000 cruise guests in 2026—more than doubling visitation from the previous year—supported by 78 cruise ship calls from 14 cruise lines. The port is also projected to account for roughly 10% of all cruise calls in British Columbia, reinforcing its growing role as a key port of call in the Pacific Northwest.

“The launch of the 2026 season is an exciting moment for Prince Rupert and a reflection of the strong foundation we’ve built with our partners and community,” said Steve Finnigan, General Manager. “We are seeing unprecedented growth, and with that comes a tremendous opportunity to showcase what makes this destination so special.”

The successful start of the season highlights the ongoing collaboration between Prince Rupert Cruise Port, the Prince Rupert Port Authority, and the City of Prince Rupert. This unified approach continues to support the sustainable growth of the cruise sector while ensuring a seamless and high-quality experience for visitors.

Local businesses and tourism operators are also playing a central role in the season’s success, offering an expanding range of shore excursions that highlight the region’s culture, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. From Indigenous cultural tourism and wildlife encounters to culinary and adventure offerings, Prince Rupert is delivering a diverse and compelling experience for cruise guests.

Early indicators from the first call point to smooth operations, strong guest satisfaction, and meaningful community engagement—setting the stage for a successful season.

As the 2026 cruise season progresses, Prince Rupert Cruise Port remains focused on enhancing the visitor experience, supporting local economic development, and continuing to build strong relationships with cruise line partners.