Two days and 1500 km to get to Prince Rupert from Vancouver. The dreary weather during the drive did not offer any scenic splendors, all hidden behind a blanket of grey cloud. Our final destination is Haida Gwaii - home of the Haida people - an archipelago off the west coast of British Columbia. As we arrive in Prince Rupert we receive a text from a friend who wisely flew to Rupert. The plane has landed and we can meet in town. It's still morning so we have time to explore before boarding the overnight ferry to Haida Gwaii.
Museum of Northern British Columbia
Butze Rapid Trail
This trail east of Prince Rupert features a natural phenomenon of reversing tidal rapids around Kaien Island in the narrow Fern Passage. The tidal conditions we not right during our visit but it was good to stretch our legs after the long drive.
North Pacific Cannery
After the hike we have enough time to visit the North Pacific Cannery near Port Edwards. We enter the cannery building at the wrong end therefore learning about the canning process in the reverse order of the actual operation. Apparently you have to catch the fish prior to placing them in a can!
Back in Prince Rupert
Before heading to the ferry terminal we visit Cow Bay and then enjoy a dinner at the Crest Hotel overlooking the harbour.
Northern Adventure
Bound for Haida Gwaii
The Northern Adventure ferry has a curious boarding ritual. All vehicles enter and exit at the stern. Cars board first and must be oriented so that they can drive directly off the ferry. Trucks and vehicles with trailers or boats must back into the stern so that they also directly drive off the ferry. Boarding can take over any hour.
Credits:
Photography by Wolf and Karoline Eilers