7 Things You Didn't Know About Prince Rupert

The port city of Kaien Island offers a diverse lifestyle and opportunities for locals and tourists to experience all the while surrounded by the natural wealth that has earned it a reputation across British Columbia and beyond. Follow our list of 7 features and facts that you may not have known about this remarkable slice of Canadiana!

1 - Named for Prince Rupert of the Rhine

Born in 1619 and commonly remembered under the title of Prince Rupert of the Rhine, Rupert was a man of many skills and professional accomplishments. Among the more Canadian-centric historical points, he was the first Governor of the Hudson's Bay Company. Many of his investments into exploration of North America contributed to the development of the area and has numerous places named in his honour.

2 - Has the Deepest Ice-Free Natural Harbour in North America

For years Prince Rupert owed its growth and economy to fishing and mill-related industries and it's not much of a wonder with its sheltered harbours and varied options of fish. However, it goes beyond that, too. Prince Rupert's harbour, while being the deepest in North America is also the 3rd deepest natural harbours in the world.

3 - Prince Rupert is the First Inbound Port of Call for Cargo Ships

Because of its location and its deep harbor, Prince Rupert has become the first inbound and last outbound port of call for cargo ships traveling between eastern Asia and western North America.

4 - Connected to the Continental Passenger Rail Network

Three times a week VIA rail offers a Prince Rupert to Jasper train that, in turn, connects with The Canadian - the transcontinental passenger train for tourists and adventurers that are looking for a scenic ride to start or complete a trip across the country.

5 - Naturally Diverse Climate with Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary

If you're of an adventurous stock and looking to get out and see some of the wilderness and wildlife that will leave you boasting about your time in Prince Rupert, check out the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. A remarkable experience that puts you in touch with nature and exposes you to the wonders of these incredible creatures and the habitats that they dominate.

6 - Traditionally the Territory of the Tsimshian First Nation

With a rich cultural history, you'll be surprised and delighted by how much of the traditional features and art have survived into contemporary society in Prince Rupert. Inspired and developed, Prince Rupert has become a fusion of societies that existed before it.

Thanks to the Tsimshian, Gitxsan, Nis ga'a, Haida, and Heiltsuk people, Prince Rupert has become a vibrant and culturally diverse city. While here take a trip to Laxspa'aws, now called Pike Island, which was last inhabited 1,800 years ago and walk through the archaeological sites.

7 - Home of the Museum of Northern BC

Being a gateway to North American has its share of expectations associated with it. Prince Rupert is, unquestionably, an ideal place to first experience Canadian cultural values and a great place to learn more about the heritage that Canadians share starts at the Museum of Northern BC. Expertly designed with engaging exhibits, the museum encourages the concepts of unity and education with a diverse selection of artifacts that will astonish as they amaze.