A delegation from Prince Rupert, B.C., recently visited Alaska officials to explore restoring ferry service between the port city and the U.S. state. The Alaska Marine Highway System suspended the route in 2019 after Canada failed to provide law enforcement at the Prince Rupert terminal, a requirement from U.S. Customs and Border Protection to safeguard American personnel conducting passport and contraband inspections.
Issue Resolved, Hopes High
Prince Rupert Mayor Herb Pond states the law enforcement concern has been addressed, paving the way for potential resolution. “We’ve held conversations with Alaska for several years,” Pond explains, “just trying to find ways to overcome the obstacles from the cancellation. That ferry served as a vital feeder to both Alaska and British Columbia for many years.”
Vital Link for Communities and Economy
The route historically connected communities across the border, boosting tourism and the local economy in Prince Rupert and nearby areas. It carried approximately 7,000 passengers and 4,500 vehicles annually. “It’s an important link we miss and have worked to restore for some time,” Pond adds.
The service also bridged Haida and Tsimshian communities divided by the border. Pond highlights a recent example: residents from Metlakatla, Alaska, attended opening ceremonies for the All-Native Basketball Tournament in Prince Rupert but flew to Seattle, rented vans, and drove north—despite being just 90 miles away. “It’s almost insanity,” he notes.
Discussions and Next Steps
Talks with Alaska State Sen. Bert Stedman focused on shared economic gains, including better health-care access and collaboration opportunities. The city remains committed to partnering with Alaskan officials to enable service resumption.
Upcoming plans include a high-level meeting between the B.C. government and Alaska. “Cultural and economic benefits, plus plain good friendship—all good reasons to bring this back,” Pond concludes.
