TERRACE, B.C. – While national headlines report a decline in international visitors to Canada, Northwest British Columbia’s tourism sector is charting a different course, marked by robust growth, record-breaking forecasts for cruise traffic, and a steady stream of travelers through its regional airport.
Recent data from Statistics Canada shows that Canada has indeed seen a downturn in some key international markets in 2025. In May, trips by U.S. residents were down 5.6% compared to the previous year, and overseas arrivals fell by 6.6%. Economists point to global economic uncertainty and past trade tensions as contributing factors.
But here in the Northwest, the story is one of remarkable resilience and strategic growth. The Port of Prince Rupert, a cornerstone of the regional tourism economy, is preparing for an unprecedented boom. After welcoming approximately 65,000 cruise passengers in 2025, the port is forecasting a massive 135% increase to over 154,000 passengers in 2026. This surge is fueled by new partnerships with prestigious lines like Virgin Voyages and The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, cementing the region’s status as a must-see destination on the Alaskan cruise circuit.
This trend of local strength is further evidenced by activity at the Terrace-Kitimat Airport (YXT). Passenger numbers have remained strong and have shown steady year-over-year growth, solidifying its position as one of Canada’s busiest and most vital regional airports.
Industry analysts suggest the Northwest is successfully capitalizing on a major shift in travel patterns. While fewer international visitors are entering Canada, a TD Economics report indicates that domestic tourism is on the rise, as more Canadians choose to spend their travel budgets exploring their own country. This trend plays directly to the strengths of the Skeena region, which offers the authentic wilderness, rich culture, and uncrowded spaces that domestic travelers are increasingly seeking.
While the national tourism landscape faces headwinds, the outlook for Northwest B.C. is bright. By leveraging its unique appeal and capitalizing on the booming cruise industry and a renewed interest in domestic travel, the region is not just navigating the challenge—it is thriving.
