The agreement will see Global Ports work closely with local stakeholders to develop and mindfully curate immersive programs spotlighting local heritage, culture, gastronomy & the diverse plant, animal, and marine life of the Great Bear Rainforest.
‘Prince Rupert Cruise Port (PRCP) marks another first for us, as GPH enters a new region of Alaska in North America,’ said Mike Maura Jr., regional director – Americas, Global Ports Holding.
‘As Global Ports Holding, in partnership with the Prince Rupert community, our focus will be to strengthen and expand the shore excursion capabilities of the beautiful destination of Prince Rupert, as well as bring the global expertise and GPH operating model to the port. Our approach to this partnership recognizes that we are invited guests committed to both the environment and good people of Prince Rupert.’
40mi from Alaska
Prince Rupert Cruise Port is located 40mi from Alaska, one of the largest cruise markets in the world and ideally placed for cruise itineraries to and from the key homeports in the region, including Seattle and Vancouver.
It received approximately 41,000 cruise passengers in 2022 and is expected to receive 80,000 for the 2023 cruise season, with the figure continuing to climb. It can handle larger ships and significant increases in passenger volumes.
‘We’re bullish on the future of Prince Rupert’s position in the expanding Alaskan cruise market and this strategic partnership with GPH represents a significant step toward the growth of Prince Rupert as a cruise destination,’ said Shaun Stevenson, president and CEO, Prince Rupert Port Authority.
‘Prince Rupert’s value proposition to cruise visitors is strong – its strategic location positions Prince Rupert to be an efficient and attractive port of call on Alaskan itineraries with a rich and diverse cultural history, and spectacular north coast scenery as a backdrop, setting the stage for diverse passenger experiences.’
He added, ‘GPH has the proven expertise to elevate cruise tourism in northern British Columbia to meet Prince Rupert’s vision of growing a thriving cruise sector into a world-class destination, with significant economic benefits for the local community and surrounding region. We are thrilled to be working in partnership with GPH to bring these ambitions to reality.’
Shore excursions
Global Ports has added industry veteran Kevin D’Costa, Prince Rupert Cruise Port’s GM to the team as part of its efforts to provide more excursion alternatives.
Prince Rupert is home to unique and rich Indigenous cultures and traditions. It has a culturally diverse community with a long history of Coast Ts’msyen habitation and is the only municipality situated in the Great Bear Rainforest - the largest coastal temperate rainforest in the world. It has a vibrant art scene, abundant wildlife, parks and trails, a remote grizzly bear sanctuary and scenic views.
Remarked Colin Murphy, head of business development – Americas, Global Ports Holding, ‘Prince Rupert is a beautiful unspoilt destination and has tremendous potential as a key player in the Alaska market. We are looking forward to working with our cruise partners to improve the guest experience, working with the local community to add more exciting shore excursion opportunities, and driving more traffic.’
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