After a nearly three-year hiatus, the M/V Matanuska returned to Prince Rupert, British Columbia on Monday, June 20. The three-year service interruption was due to new border requirements and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Eighty-three passengers and 39 vehicles arrived at the port at approximately 11:15 p.m. After unloading, 107 passengers and 55 vehicles embarked for Ketchikan at 2:15 a.m. Tuesday, June 21, according to the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.
A 2019 Land, Rail, Marine and Air Transport agreement, between the U.S. and Canada requires that the Prince Rupert terminal become a preclearance facility, making it the first preclearance port in the nation. The designation allows for easier travel and trade between the United States and Canada. Additionally, changes to the facility were needed, including high speed data into the terminal, the installation of a U.S. government approved weapon and document safe, and the installation of a security system for the terminal building. Further terminal upgrades will be required over the next few years.
Commissioner Ryan Anderson, Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, said:
“I’m pleased to announce that, through our department’s efforts, and our partnerships with the Canadian government, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, we are sailing to Prince Rupert again. Prince Rupert is a valuable mainland link for Alaska, and we intend to keep it open for travelers in the years to come.”
Gov. Mike Dunleavy said:
“Prince Rupert is an important connection for commerce and passenger traffic in the Alaska Marine Highway System, especially for southern Southeast Alaska. There are significant cultural and family ties that will benefit from this service. I anticipate increased service in the future now that federal requirements in both Canada and the United States have been met.”
The M/V Matanuska will visit the port twice monthly from June through September 2022. Service was ended in October 2019 while both governments were working through pre-clearance requirements.
