A layover in Prince Rupert is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Prince Rupert/Seal Cove Seaplane Base sits just 30 minutes from the city center by Local Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Before heading into Prince Rupert, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Canada vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Prince Rupert is roughly 30 minutes from ZSW via Local Taxi. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Prince Rupert/Seal Cove Seaplane Base to Downtown
You have two main options for getting from Prince Rupert/Seal Cove Seaplane Base into town:
- Local Taxi: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
For a layover visit to Prince Rupert, we’d suggest Museum of Northern British Columbia and Cow Bay. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing. Perfect for a short walk when you need fresh air after a long flight.
If you’d rather stay inside ZSW — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Watching Seaplane Takeoffs & Landings
- Enjoy Scenic Views of Seal Cove
Food & Dining Options
For food in Prince Rupert, local travelers recommend Dolly’s Fish Market. If you have time for a second stop, Cowpuccino’s Coffee House is another popular pick.
Back at ZSW, Terminal Vending Machines is the go-to. Basic Coffee & Snack Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Prince Rupert might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$19 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$39 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at ZSW aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Prince Rupert itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ZSW for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Prince Rupert or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Rest Areas & Lounges
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at ZSW.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Prince Rupert is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Prince Rupert.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.