Top 10 Best Whale Watching Tours in Victoria, BC (Local’s Guide)

There are plenty of wonderful whale watching tours in Victoria, BC Canada, you can take to see the abundant and majestic wildlife in west coast waters. You can tour by zodiac, covered boat, kayak and even plane.  

With so many different companies offering the “best” tour in Victoria, it can be hard to figure out which one to take.

Growing up in Victoria, BC I’ve seen and done it all. Either as a family, or taken many visitors to see the local sites both on and off the waters. Including taking a recent Victoria whale watching tour with my youngest. I share our personal experience whale watching and our favourite companies and tours to take.

🐳 Our top pick for everyone is this half day Eagle Wing tour we took ourselves. Excellent guides, great for all ages. Plus free wildlife photos & whale sighting guarantee.

I’ve put together what you need to know about the best whale watching Victoria (a local’s guide). So you’ll know what to expect, and who it may be best for. To help you find the best experience for your budget and travel preferences.

Ready to book your epic whale watching adventure? Let’s go!

Top 3 Picks: Best Whale Watching Victoria

#1 TOP PICK

Orca whale tail splashing out of water off Victoria Canada.

EAGLE WING TOURS

✔️ Heated cabin, outside seating, toilets

✔️ 3.5 – 4 hours, whale guarantee

✔️ Accessible & for all ages

#2 PICK

Prince of Whales Tour boar with orca in front

PRINCE OF WHALES – ZODIAC BOAT

✔️ Small Group

✔️ All-weather flotation suits

✔️ Wildlife photos & whale guarantee

#3 PICK

Sunset whale watching tour, orca swimming.

SUNSET WHALE WATCHING

✔️ See sunset & whales

✔️ Viewing decks, toilets

✔️ Hot drinks & Free wildlife photos

Victoria Whale Watching Season

The best time of year for whale watching in Victoria BC is from  late April to October. For the best chance of seeing Orcas, Humpback Whales and Minke Whales around Vancouver Island. Sometimes you may even be able to see Grey Whales.

The most popular time for visitors to Victoria is summer months June to early September. 

If you are looking to avoid the peak season crowds, try late April / May or late Sept/October. All major tour companies, including this highly rated and popular Prince of Whales, run from April to October.

Become more in tune with nature aboard this sunset whale watching tour.

Or splurge on a once in a lifetime opportunity to book Vancouver to Victoria sea plane & whale watching day trip.

It really is one of the most magical and best things to do in Victoria.

We have more tips and info at the bottom of this post, so don’t forget to check those out too.

Best Whale Watching Victoria Tour Companies 

There are quite a few whale watching tour companies that offer marine wildlife tours and whale watching from Victoria.

While you can see the transient orcas, and other whales by boat, kayak or plane, or even the ferry, we recommend taking a boat tour for the more up close and unique views. 

  • Zodiac Boat Tour – Choose zodiac tours if you want a smaller group, have older kids or don’t mind being more exposed to wind, and water. It gives you a more unique and personal feel being at ocean level.
  • Covered Boat Tour – Choose a covered boat tour, if you prefer a warm place to escape the elements, don’t mind a larger group, or have younger kids you need to keep an eye on. They also have toilets, which is handy. If you get seasick, a larger catameran boat is the better option, as it will be more stable.

Popular whale watching companies in Victoria are:

  • Prince of Whales – *most popular*
  • Orca Spirit Adventures
  • Five Star
  • Spring Tide
  • Eagle Wing

They typically leave from downtown Victoria and the Inner Harbor area. These companies all have great success rate in finding wild whales, and orcas in the coastal waters, over 80 to 95% of the time.

They know the best places to look, and communicate with other boats as to where the whales have been sighted that day.

Top 10 Best Whale Watching Tours in Victoria, BC 

We’ve highlighted our top 10 picks for the best whale watching tours in Victoria, BC (a local’s guide) below.

As well as more detailed info on each tour option. Including cost, best features, accessibility, and who it may be best for.

  • All these tours have review ratings of 4.5 or 5 / 5, and are well reviewed and liked by those who’ve taken the tours.
  • All tours offer experienced and knowledgeable guides / naturalists who can teach you all about the magnificant marine life.

Generally whale watching tour costs range from around $130 / per adult on up to $190+ / per adult. Youth and kids are less, and lap infants are usually no cost. The higher priced tours tend to offer more perks.

Prince of Whales Tours are one of the most popular with local’s and visitors to the Pacific Northwest, and for good reason.

They make it easy to book with many different time options, and have a guarantee for whale sightings.  If you don’t see whales on your tour, you can book another time for free. They also have over four thousand 4 or 5 / 5 star reviews.

Prince of Whales tours are slightly more expensive than the other tours. But with the extras they provide like photos, and their well equipped catamaran boats, it more than makes up for it.

Whale watching really is one of the best things to do in Victoria.

1. Victoria Whale & Wildlife Cruise – Eagle Wing (Wheelchair Accessible)

Mom and daughter in front of Eagle Wing Whale Watching Tour boat, smiling after tour.
All smiles after our awesome whale watching tour with Eagle Wing Tours
Photo by Packed for Life

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 – 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

Our number one pick is the Eagle Wing Tours, and is the most recent whale watching tour we’ve taken.

Cruise the Salish Sea in comfort during this Eagle Wing whale & wildlife cruise from Victoria, BC in either an open or semi-covered boat.

What sold us on Eagle Wing were their semi-covered boat, with max 50 peope.

We were highly impressed with the engaged guides, up front seating & amazing views of not only sealife, but the Olympic Mountains, & San Juan Islands. Handy to have a washroom on hand, and a place to warm up out of the wind.

A certified naturalist will lead your adventure searching for orcas, humpbacks, seals and sea lions.

Great day on the water! The entire experience was excellent. Great communication pre-trip, engaging interactions on board, a very well-designed boat. We saw a group of orcas as well as some bald eagles, sea lions and sea otters. Wind breakers gloves and caps were a welcome offering. All in all a fun morning and a must do in Victoria.
AMIT ⭐️ Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Cruise reviews

🐳 This cruise is enjoyable for everyone, as it’s wheelchair accessible, their semi-covered boats have washrooms, and whales are guaranteed! Plus with only a max of 50 passengers, it’s a smaller group experience.

BEST FOR: Everyone!

Leaves from: Fisherman’s Wharf Downtown.

Size: Max 50 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, on the semi covered vessels only. Service animals allowed.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

Whale sighting guaranteed, or you can return for free!
Expert & Engaged Guides / Captain
Live commentary on board
Open custom-built, high-performance boats or semi-covered catamerans
$5 Wildlife fee included 
3.5 – 4 Hour Whale Watching Tour from Victoria, Canada
10% off certain vendors at Fisherman’s Wharf

2. Zodiac Whale Watching Tour by Prince of Whales

Prince of Whales Zodiac boat and orca whale
Zodiac Whale Watching – Orca sighting | Photo by Prince of Whales

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Cruise the rolling waves of Haro Strait into the Strait of Juan de Fuca aboard a zodiac speedboat. A highlight for teenagers, and those who like a bit of speed.

🐳 Taking this 3 hour Zodiac Whale Watching Tour by Prince of Whales is a must for whale watching, adventure seekers.

See orcas and humpbacks breach from ocean level, for a more unique and personal experience. While you learn all about their migration habits, life cycle, and history of the area.

Amazing trip. Our captain was very friendly and informative. Flotation suits kept us cozy out on the water. It didn’t take him long to locate a pod of Orcas. He got close enough to let us view and take photos, but not too close to disturb them. We also seen approx 5 humpbacks which was awesome. Highly recommend.
VARI_E ⭐️ Prince of Whales Zodiac Tour reviews

They provide all weather floatation suits to keep you cozy and warm. Just remember to wear layers underneath, and warm socks / footwear.

BEST FOR: Families with Teens & Adventurous folk

Leaves from: Lower causeway, Inner Harbour, 812 Wharf St

Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Also not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE ZODIAC TOUR

3 Hour marine wildlife tour. Guaranteed whale sightings (or free tour until you see whales)
Expert Guide / Skipper
All-weather exposure flotation suits to wear
The $5 per person Salish Sea Conservation Fee

3. Sunset Whale Watching from Victoria – Prince of Whales

Killer Whales on a Sunset Whale Watching Tour

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3+ hours | ✅ Book it!

See the stunning coastal scenery from a perspective many people miss, on this sunset whale watching tour from Victoria. 

Head out on the Juan de Fuca Strait to see bald eagles soar overhead, and whales swim, play and feed as you watch the sunset from one of their three viewing decks. Then head inside for a warm drink to warm up. 

🐳 A top pick for epic photos. This is a photographer’s favorite sunset tour, for the vibrant colors, scenery and unique sunset experience. 

An experience of a lifetime. Far exceeded my expectations. Our guide was as awesome, very knowledgeable, a lot of fun. He made sure everyone was comfortable and enjoying themselves. What a phenomenal site to see not one but two separate pods of killer whales. If I’m ever in Victoria again I will definitely do this again.
MARIE ⭐️ Sunset Whale Watching from Victoria, BC reviews

Not good with a camera? No worries the tour guides will take photos of the marine life, and send them to you electronically. 

So you can just focus on the magic of watching whales, sea lions and the sunset with your sweetie or family.

BEST FOR: Photographers, Couples, Families & Sunset Cruise

Leaves from: Lower causeway, Inner Harbour, 812 Wharf St

Tour Size: Max 95 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Service animals allowed with documentation.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

3+ Hour sunset tour. Guaranteed whale sightings (or free tour until you see whales)
Captain & crew of 3-4 guides / naturalists
Hot coffee & Tea
Open sun decks or heated indoor seating for epic views
Onboard washrooms
Free photo package of your trip & wildlife, with personal photos of your family

4. Vancouver Seaplane to Victoria and Whale Watching Cruise

Harbor Air float plane landing in Victoria's Inner Harbour
Visitors love this this Vancouver to Victoria day trip | Photo by Harbour Air Seaplanes

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: ~10 hours | ✅ Book it!

Combine the best of both worlds with this amazing sea and sky tour. Take a scenic seaplane flight from Vancouver, then hop aboard your choice of a Victoria whale watching cruise.

🐳 This option is perfect for those who only have a little time on the west coast, or are looking for a quick day trip to Victoria from the mainland. Or when taking the fast ferry from Seattle. You can even stay a bit longer in Victoria after your tour, and sightsee, making this the best option.

Start your day with aerial views of the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands below. You may even be lucky enough to spot some Orca pods from the sky.

Worth every penny! First time doing both sea plane and whale watching and it was beyond expectations! The staff and crew of all; Viator (helped me rebook), Harbour Air and the whale watching crew was amazing! Can’t say enough about this package! Bucket List checked off!
TAEKO ⭐️ Vancouver to Victoria Whale Watching Cruise reviews

During your whale watching tour listen as your guide shares fascinating facts about the coastal marine life and ecosystem. While keeping your eyes open for Orcas (killer whales), sea lions, and other coastal gems.

When choosing your tour, consider that covered boat tours welcome people of all ages. But the zodiacs are restricted to those 6 years old and above, and have a minimum height of 4 feet.

Check out more whale watching from Vancouver Island.

BEST FOR: Quick Victoria day trip. Options for Everyone!

Leaves from: Harbour Air Seaplanes 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC

Tour Size: Depends on tour chosen

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Zodiac Tour option also not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

Roundtrip scenic seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria
3 Hour Whale Watching Tour in Victoria with Expert Guides
Carbon offset levy

5. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria – Prince of Whales

Orca (Killer Whale) swimming off the coast of Victoria, BC Canada

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3+ hours | ✅ Book it!

This 3 hour whale watching adventure aboard the Prince of Whales catameran, semi-covered vessel, is one of the best experiences you can have.

While cruising through the Haro Strait you’ll spot beautiful orcas, humpback whales and sea lions from the open sun decks or heated indoor cabins. Also keep your eye out for bald eagles,

🐳 Perfect for families and people of all ages, as there’s restrooms, and covered areas to stay warm, and free warm drinks served.

Plus their informative guides bring the animals’ stories to life and teach you all about the Salish Sea and its marine life.

Wow – amazing trip. Saw so many humpbacks and luckily an Orca on our way back. Guides were incredible- couldn’t recommend more. Boat was perfect for children – inside warm seating, toilets and great out side areas. Just amazing.
– TINA ⭐️ Half Day Prince of Whales Tour reviews

While you may not want the tour to end, you can take home precious photo memories of the wildlife seen, and your family, which is included in the tour.

The catameran holds up to 95 passengers. If you are looking to eascape the crowds, our next choice, a zodiac tour may be more your speed.

BEST FOR: Almost everyone! Included photos and whale guarantee

Leaves from: Lower causeway, Inner Harbour, 812 Wharf St

Tour Size: Up to 95 passengers

Wheelchair accessible: No

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

3+ Hour marine wildlife tour. Guaranteed whale sightings (or free tour until you see whales)
Captain and expert crew of 3-4 guides / naturalists
Stunning Marine life view sightings from the open sun decks or heated indoor seating
2 onboard washrooms
Free photo package of you, your trip & wildlife
The $5 per person Salish Sea Conservation Fee

6. Victoria Covered Boat Whale Watching Tour – Orca Spirit Adventures

Orca Spirit Adventures Covered Boat in Inner Harnour, Victoria Canada
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

This Orca Spirit Adventures can start right from your hotel, with pick up service.

Choose from morning (for the early birds) or afternoon departures into the stunning Juan de Fuca and Haro Straits. For a delightful whale watching cruise from Victoria, with certified marine biologists.

🐳 Great for families and people of all ages, as there’s a washroom on board, and comfortable indoor seating and viewing areas. Plus free hot beverages and snacks to buy just in case.

Great experience! We saw orcas, sea lions, and harbor seals. The team was knowledgeable and friendly and the boat was spacious and warm with plenty of interior and exterior viewing space.
ANGEL ⭐️ Victoria Covered Boat Whale Watching reviews

Your guides are happy to teach you all about, and answer any questions you may have on orcas, humpbacks, marine birds, seals, and sea lions you see along the west coast waters.

Travel in the comfort of this covered boat that offers indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Raised upper deck offers fantastic photo ops with their panoramic views.

Then warm up with a hot beverage.

BEST FOR: Almost everyone! Hotel Pick up / Drop off

Leaves from: 146 Kingston St. Go down to the Marina Level of the Coast Hotel & Marina by APA.

Tour Size: Max 75 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: No.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

3 Hour Whale Watching Tour Victoria
Driver & Professional certified marine biologist guides
Hot beverage included & snacks to buy
Washrooms onboard 
Hotel / port pickup and drop-off

7. Victoria Whale Watching Cruise – Five Star (Wheelchair Accessible)

Killer Whale Pods in British Columbia, Canada. Best whale watching Victoria.
Keep your eye out for Killer Whale Pods in British Columbia, Canada

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Get ready to take in the beauty of British Columbia’s Salish Sea, with Victoria’s 1st Certified Responsible Whale Watching Operator Five Star Whale Watching.

🐳 This Victoria whale watching tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, with washrooms, making it a great choice for everyone. With a smaller capacity boat (up to 40 passengers), you also get the comfort of a covered boat to warm up in, but with less crowds. 

Excellent! The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, the boat was comfortable and spacious and we saw several species of whales! Overall a fantastic trip and I would happily do it again..
CHANTELLE ⭐️ Five Star Victoria Whale Watching Cruise reviews

You’ll have plenty of time on this 3 hour Five Star covered boat whale watching cruise to ask questions and  learn all about the surrounding marine ecosystem.

As well as the opportunity to spot humpback whales, orcas, harbor seals, porpoises, sea lions, sea otters and more!

BEST FOR: Everyone!

Leaves from: Meet at 645 Humboldt Street on the North side of the Fairmont Empress Hotel, next to Willow Stream Spa.

Tour Size: Max 40 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes. Stroller accessible & service animals also allowed.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

3 Hour Whale Watching Tour Victoria
2 onboard marine naturalists / guides
Washrooms
Indoor heated cabins
Indoor & Outdoor viewing areas

8. Victoria Whale Watching Tour and Wine Tour

Humpback whale tail, whale watching off Vancouver Island

⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Combine the best of Victoria with this unique Victoria Whale Watching and Wine Tour.

Wine, Whales and a Vancouver Island sunset off the shore, is a true west coast experience not to miss. 

🐳 This full-day luxury combo tour is for wine & cider lovers who also want the adventure of whale watching.

Great experience! Our Wine Tour Driver and expert was a very charming host and expert on the province and island. Our Whale Watching Captain and guide was full of really amazing information. Both of them were very devoted to their work and we learned a lot, saw a lot, and had ALOT of fun! This is a GREAT day!!!
MARGO ⭐️ Victoria Whale Watching & Wine Tour reviews

You’ll love the opportunity to first visit and enjoy tastings at three wineries on the Saanich Peninsula. Then stop at a local bistro for farm to table lunch along the way. 

Followed by a 3 hour sunset whale watching tour aboard a semi-covered or open boat with Eagle Wing Tours. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, as knowledgeable guides regale you with stories of the wildlife of the Salish Sea. 

Sightings may include killer whales, humpback whales, and porpoises!

They also offer the option of the wine tour, and a next day whale watching tour during the day if you prefer.

BEST FOR: Wine Lovers and people 19+ years

Leaves from: Meet at 645 Humboldt Street on the North side of the Fairmont Empress Hotel, next to Willow Stream Spa.

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes. Service animals allowed

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

Hotel pickup and drop off (select hotels only)
4–5 hour chauffeur driven luxury transportation, wine tasting at 3 wineries (gratuities included)
Lunch at a local bistro
3 Hour Whale Watching Tour Victoria (sunset or day)
$5 Wildlife fee

9. Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour in Victoria – Orca Spirit Adventures

Orca Spirit Adventures Zodiac Boats for Whale Watching
Photo by Donna | Packed for Life

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Get ready for an up close experience you won’t want to miss.

Set out on the Pacific Ocean in this Orca Spirit Adventures Zodiac whale watching tour from Victoria.

For a chance to see resident Orcas, Humpbacks, Harbor Seals and more.

🐳 Perfect for families with older kids, adventurous folk and those looking for a small group, up-close and personal west coast experience.

This tour was the highlight of our short time in Victoria, the captain was awesome and very informative. We saw killer whales, seals, eagles, and the best was a mamma humpback and her yearling calf.
STACY ⭐️ Orca Spirit Zodiac Whale Watching Tour reviews

The wild at heart will feel the salty wind against your face, as you grab the chance to photograph magnificent marine creatures.

BEST FOR: Families with older kids, Adventurous folk, Avoiding crowds, Hotel Pick Up

Leaves from: 950 Wharf St. Same dock as seaplane tours & terminal

Size: Max 12 passengers

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Also not suitable for pregnant people, or people with injuries / conditions

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

Hotel pickup and drop off (select hotels only)
Expert Guide / Captain
Cold weather gear
Coffee or tea
3 Hour Whale Watching Tour Victoria

10. Victoria Whale Watching in Luxury Yacht – Spring Tide

Things to do in Victoria, BC with Kids. Humpback sighting on whale watching tour
Humpback whale breaching off the coast of Victoria British Columbia, Canada.

⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!

Travel out onto the Pacific Ocean aboard a comfortable, motorized yacht. With fantastic views of Vancouver Island in between sightings of orcas, humpback whales, elephant seals and sea lions in their natural habitat.

Keep your camera ready and eyes out for Bald Eagles and marine birds as well.

🐳 Spring Tides Whale Watching is great for almost everyone, due to their comfortable luxury cruiser (with washrooms), that provides 360 degree views. Plus a hydrophone to hear the orcas underwater.

Best whale watching tour we have been on. The boat was perfect size, not too small or too big. Was able to get close to the whales and follow along them easily. Great crew, super informative. Great views of Olympia and the islands too.
MONICA ⭐️ Spring Tide Luxury Whale Watching reviews

Learn from their expert naturalist guides all about the Pacific Coast ecosystem and wildlife. Ask questions, take amazing photos up close.

When the conditions are right, you can even hear the boat’s hydrophones pick up and amplify the orca’s sounds, as they travel off the coast of Vancouver Island.

While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, they have had guests with collapsible chairs and limited mobility join their tours. I recommend calling them directly with any questions, prior to booking.

BEST FOR: Almost everyone! Hydrophone for hearing the whales

Leaves from: 1119 Wharf St (at street level – next door to Darcys Pub)

Size: Max 84 passengers.

Wheelchair Accessible: No. Service animals allowed. Stroller accessible.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THIS TOUR

Spacious indoor heated cabin & washrooms
Expert Guide / Captain
Hot Chocolate, Coffee or Tea
All-weather jackets and pants provided 
Hydrophone to listen to the Whales
3+ Hour Whale Watching Tour Victoria

VICTORIA WHALE WATCHING TIPS & INFO

Types of Whales off Vancouver Island

These are a few of the most common whales you can see on a whale watching tour in Victoria, BC. Including:

  • Orcas: Also known as Killer Whales. These majestic beauties are black and white with a large dorsal fin. You can also often see them feeding off the islands, and traveling with their young, on the ferry ride between Vancouver and Victoria.
  • Minke Whales: Are the smallest of the baleen whales. They are dark grey / black with white patches on their bodies.
  • Humpback Whales: Largest of the whales, they can reach up to 52 feet long. You can ID them with their distinct hump, and long fins. 

Other sea life that can be seen on a Victoria whale watching tour can include California Sea Lions and Elephant Sea Lions, Harbour Seals and Porpoises, Dall’s Porpoise, Pacific White-sided Dolphins, and Sea Otters. 

Look to the skies for bald eagles and other west coast marine birds. As you cruise the southern tip of Vancouver Island.

Victoria, BC sunset and whales in the distance.
Look from shore, you never know when you’ll see whales in the distance

Types of Whale Watching Tours

By Boat

The best and easiest way to see whales is to take zodiac or covered boat whale-watching tours from Victoria, BC Canada.

As mentioned earlier, there a few things to consider when choosing which type of boat.

Zodiac Boat Tour

Choose a zodiac boat tour if you want a smaller group, have older kids (6+ years) or don’t mind being more exposed to wind, and water. It gives you a more unique and personal feel being at ocean level.

These small inflatable boats hold up to 12 People and tend to be less expensive.

Covered Boat Tour

Choose a covered boat tour, if you prefer a warm place to escape the elements, don’t mind a larger group, or have younger kids you need to keep an eye on. They also have toilets, which is handy.

If you get seasick, a larger catameran boat is the better option, as it will be more stable.


Both types of boats allow you to get close to whales. There are rules in place for the safety and protection of the whales as to how close the boats can get, and the tour operators follow these carefully.

By Air

A plane or helicopter tour can potentially allow you to see more whales, as you can cover more area of the sea.

This would provide a unique perspective, of both Vancouver Island and marine wildlife. However you won’t get as close.

By Kayak

If you are an experienced kayaker, renting a kayak, and heading out on the ocean, is a great way to see whales up close at their level. But they can be quite far from shore.

Definitely not for beginners, or those without any kayaking experience.

By Ferry  

I love the BC ferry ride from Victoria to Vancouver and it’s my favorite way to see orcas.

There’s no guarantee, but they can often be seen as the ferry passes between the Gulf Islands. 

From Land

There are times when you can see pods of Orcas or Humpback Whales, and other marine mammals from the shore.

The breakwater is a great place to walk, and often you can see harbour porpoises in the distance.

I’ve even seen whales from Willows Beach (one of our favourite parks / beaches in Victoria) on occasion.  

Check out Race Rocks Lighthouse, as Orcas sometimes gather around here, and you can often see sea lions on the rocks.

Wolf Mural and Sea Lions on a rock. Victoria Whale Watching Tours.

What to Wear Whale Watching

Being out the water you will be exposed to the elements; wind, sun, rain, spray from the water. It’s best to wear layers. Wear a sweater, wind / waterproof jacket, warm socks, and appropriate closed toe footwear (no flip flops!).

Even on sunny summer days, it can be cool on the water.

If taking a Zodiac Tour, the company usually provide survival suits for you to wear. In open boats, tours often also provide jackets and rain pants. Check to see what your tour will provide.

Make sure to bring a plastic bag or other waterproof case to keep your camera safe and dry.

FAQs

When is the best time to see whales in Victoria?

The best time to see whales in Victoria is from the end of April through to October. During the peak season you have up to a 95% chance of seeing resident & tranisent Orcas, and humpback whales. However you can see whales year round. Whales are active throughout the day, so morning, or afternoon you have an equal chance of viewing these majestic mammals, as well as other wildlife.

Is Whale Watching worth it in Victoria, BC?

Yes, whale watching in Victoria, BC is worth it. Seeing these awe inspiring creatures up close is one of the most memorable, and best things to do in Victoria in winter or anytime. . The southern tip of Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world to see orcas, humpbacks and other marine wildlife like sea lions, seals, and porpoises.

How much does it cost to go whale watching in Victoria?

Whale watching in Victoria costs anywhere from around $130 to $200 per adult, and $100 to $170 per child / youth. Infants 1 and under are under $25, sometimes free. Tours last around 3-4 hours.

Can you see Orcas in Victoria?

Yes you can see Orcas in Victoria, both resident and transient Orcas who who pass through west coast waters. While you can see them year round, the best time to see Orcas in Victoria in larger numbers is Spring and then late summer into fall.

QUICK GUIDE: Best Whale Watching Victoria, BC

WHALE WATCHING TOUR NAMECOMPANYBEST FORFEATURESCOST
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Eagle Wing ToursWine Lovers and folks 19+ yearsWine tasting at 3 wineries, lunch at a local bistro & whale watching tour (sunset or day tour options).Whale guarantee.$$$$
Zodiac Whale watching tour porpoise sighting by boat.Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour in VictoriaOrca Spirit AdventuresFamilies with older kids (6+), Avoiding Crowds & Hotel Pick-upGear, coffee or tea, Hotel pick-up / drop-off Whale guarantee$$$
Orca Whale in front of 5 Star Tours covered vessel. Victoria Whale Watching Cruise (Wheelchair Accessible)Five Star Whale Watching ToursEveryone! Wheelchair accessible. Avoid the crowds (40 ppl max).Wheelchair & stroller accessible. Indoor heated cabins & washrooms. Whale guarantee.$
Spring Tide Yacht Whale Watching Tour boat with orca whale swimmin gin front.Victoria Whale Watching in Luxury YachtSpring Tide Whale WatchingAlmost everyone! Hydrophone for hearing the whalesLuxury boat, indoor cabins & Washrooms. Hot drinks. Gear provided. Stroller accessible. Whale guarantee.$$

Final Thoughts: Best Whale Watching Victoria

🐳 We think this half day whale watching tour with Eagle Wing is the best option. As it’s great for everybody due to their inside warm seating areas, toilets and fantastic 360 degree views from their outside platforms. And only 50 people max.

Plus the personal extras of tour photos, Whale sighting guarantee & accessibility make this a fantastic choice.

Or there are nine other fabulous tours to choose from that may better suit your travel needs.

I hope our local’s guide has helped you choose the best Victoria whale watching tour for your Victoria, BC Canada Itinerary.

Things to do in Victoria, BC - Whale Watching
Vancouver Island Bucket List, orca whale & zodiac tour.

VICTORIA & CANADA RESOURCES

Here are our favourite resources we use to research and book our trips. They offer competitive deals, and good customer service. Plus itineraries and more travel ideas for Victoria & Canada:
3 Day Victoria Itinerary with Kids
Free & Cheap Things to do in Victoria, BC
Top 11+ Victoria Parks & Playgrounds not to miss!
How to travel from Vancouver to Butchart Gardens
20 Day trips to take from Victoria
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Vancouver Island Bucket List
Best Whale Watching from Vancouver Island
Fun things to do in Parksville, BC
Top places to stay in Parksville, BC Canada
How to see the Northern Lights in Yellowknife


Booking.com – Book accomodations here. Excellent all round site for lowest lodging rates.
VRBO Book family friendly accommodations here, All the comforts of home, but no cleaning!
Viator – Find & book even more experiences, tours & fun lessons world wide.
Discover Cars – Make finding the cheapest or best car for your trip easy (worldwide)
Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) – Save money on flights

Anything else? Check out our Family Travel Resources & Tips page

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