Photo courtesy of BC Ferries Until 1979, ferry service to Prince Rupert operated out of a tiny bay in the centre of Vancouver Island. Ferry service to Prince Rupert proved to be an expensive venture and after a new road was put in, the ferry authority moved the terminal to the northern tip of the island, at Port Hardy. Summertime is the best time to experience the beauty of the mid-coast. The Queen of the North handles most excursions to Prince Rupert and takes approximately 23 hours sailing time in the summer. Northern Gulf Islands Cabins are available for overnight guests, but many knowledgeable travellers just spread out their sleeping bags on the deck and enjoy the evening starlight.
Tents are available for rent as well.
The Queen of Nanaimo in the Southern Gulf Island. Photo courtesy of BC Ferries BC Ferries' website offers a virtual tour of the Discovery Passage cruise, with excellent images and descriptions of the cruise's activities and sights. The Queen Charlotte Islands have been the home of the Haida people for 8,000 years and represent an unforgettable stop on your tour of Canada's westcoast waterways. The voyage on the Queen of Prince Rupert takes approximately 7 hours. The ship is equipped with a variety of amenities, including showers, a licensed lounge and facilities for persons with special needs.