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Prince Rupert/Seal Cove Seaplane Base (ZSW/CZSW) is a waterfront floatplane facility at Seal Cove in Prince Rupert, British Columbia. It serves as a key North Coast gateway for scheduled and charter seaplane flights to Haida Gwaii, remote coastal communities, and fishing lodges. The base has roots in coastal aviation and wartime seaplane operations, and it remains a compact, weather-dependent alternative to Prince Rupert's Digby Island airport.
💡 Local Tip
Seaplane flying here is highly weather-dependent; fog, wind, and low ceilings can delay or cancel flights, so build buffer time into connections and keep your operator's contact info handy. Wear grippy shoes and be ready for a hands-on boarding onto the floats.
🚖 Getting There
Seal Cove is a short drive from downtown Prince Rupert, so a taxi or pre-arranged shuttle is the easiest option with luggage. If you are connecting from Prince Rupert Airport (YPR) on Digby Island, allow extra time for the airport ferry and shuttle into town before continuing to Seal Cove. Walking from downtown is possible but not ideal with bags, and local transit service is limited, so confirm your ride in advance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is ZSW the same as Prince Rupert Airport (YPR)?
A: No. ZSW is the Seal Cove Seaplane Base in Prince Rupert harbour, while YPR is the main airport on Digby Island, reached by ferry and shuttle. Check your ticket carefully.
Q: How early should I arrive for a seaplane flight?
A: Most operators ask passengers to check in 20–30 minutes before departure. Arrive earlier if you have baggage, are connecting from YPR, or need to complete paperwork.
Q: What destinations are served from Seal Cove?
A: Scheduled and charter seaplanes typically link Prince Rupert with Haida Gwaii communities such as Masset and Sandspit, plus remote lodges and coastal spots. Routes vary by season and operator.
Q: Are there terminal facilities at the seaplane base?
A: Facilities are basic and operator-specific, often a small waiting area or dock office. Do not expect a full airport terminal; confirm amenities with your airline.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash