Discover the rich and enthralling history of the Tsimshian through native dances, songs, stories and priceless artifacts on display in a museum.
Your tour begins with a 20-minute walk from the ship to the renowned Museum of Northern British Columbia in downtown Prince Rupert. The moment you step inside, you will realize that this is a special place. The lobby resembles a traditional Native North American longhouse made with massive cedar timbers. The exhibits in the Great Hall and Treasures Gallery reveal a rich legacy of archaeological artifacts and unique ceremonial works of art that reflect thousands of years of Northwest Coast history and culture. You will also encounter exhibits devoted to the more recent history of fur trading, the railway and the development of the fishing industry. Additionally, you may watch a video presentation that shows the vital role of the natural environment in the lives of the local people.
To enhance your understanding of the Tsimshian culture even further, you will make your way to another longhouse where you will be greeted as guests of the feast and named to your clan before being treated to an authentic performance of traditional dances and songs. You may also sample some of the traditional foods vital to the Tsimshian culture, which might include codfish, halibut and salmon, although the Tsimshian also hunted bears, mountain goats and deer.
Following the performance, you are free to stay behind and further explore on your own or make your own way back to the ship.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2 hours of easy to moderate walking/standing. There is an incline to negotiate to reach the Museum and the longhouse. The tour is available to wheelchair guests with non-motorized wheelchairs only. No guides or service animals are permitted in the Museum. A Museum staff member may be requested in advance for visually impaired guests. Warm, layered clothing; waterproof jacket and flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.