The Cruise Ship Task Force has been working hard this season and things seem to be working to their advantage. This is thanks to community members participating this year.

“It was the same program that we ran last year but it seemed that the volunteers brought even more magic,” said John Farrell, member of the Cruise Ship Task Force.

Farrell talks about one unique occurrence as the cruise ship left the harbour on May 4^th.

“The Captain even opened the window and with a bullhorn said “Thank you Prince Rupert, good night” as he left the harbour and you know, I don’t think we’ve ever seen that kind of response by the visitors as well. They’re obviously enjoying what they see in Prince Rupert,” said Farrell.

There’s one ship left this season, which is set to cruise into town on July 23^rd and things seem to be moving in a positive direction, but I had to ask, is there anything that needs work for next year?

“No. The goal was to really re-engage the passengers and re-engage the cruise lines and I think we’ve done that. Now the next step is, let’s make our excursions, get more excursions happening and have more things for people to do and I think we’re doing that,” said Farrell.

On the 19^th, Community Futures and the Prince Rupert Port Authority will be running a workshop for new entrepreneurs that want their businesses to develop a cruise program for the 2013 season.

Seven cruise ships are already planned for next year.