Best Whale Watching Tours Vancouver Island – A Local’s Guide
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Have you been wondering about whale watching on Vancouver Island? We have everything you need to know.
Growing up on the island I’ve had the pleasure of seeing whales many times, and taken many visitors on tours over the years. My last trip I even took my youngest daughter whale watching from Victoria, BC Canada to see these beauties.
With so many options, it can be hard to know where to go whale watching, and which are the best tours. I am excited to share these local whale watching tips, the best spots to take tours, which whales you’ll see and our favorite tour options with you.
Whether you’re hoping to witness the playful breach of a Humpback or Grey Whale or the awe-inspiring power of a pod of orcas, these top 10 best whale watching tours on Vancouver Island are unmatched.
My Top 3 Picks: Best Whale Watching Vancouver Island
#1 TOP PICK
PRINCE OF WHALES
✔️ Small Group Zodiac Tour from Victoria
✔️ All-weather flotation suits
✔️ Wildlife photos & whale guarantee
#2 PICK
EAGLE WING – SEMI COVERED BOAT
✔️ Heated cabin, toilets, outside seating
✔️ 3.5+ hours, whale guarantee
✔️ Accessible & for all ages. From Victoria
#3 PICK
SALISH SEA WHALE WATCHING
✔️ Covered boat, toilets & small group
✔️ First Nation culture, history, visit old village
✔️ Snacks & drinks
Best Places to See Whales on Vancouver Island
Having ventured to the farthest corners of the world, my heart invariably leads me back to British Columbia, my home town and the ruggedly beautiful coastline of Vancouver Island.
Witnessing the majestic dance of whales in their natural habitat is thrilling. Something everyone should do at least once.
I’ve been lucky enough to see them just 50 metres from shore, on the BC Ferries, and on whale watching tours. It always stops me in my tracks and I am overcome with this sense of awe.
Here are some of the top spots for whale watching on Vancouver Island:
- Victoria:The bustling city of Victoria offers numerous tours right from the inner harbor, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Victoria is our top pick as it provides excellent opportunities to spot resident orcas (all year) & transient orcas, humpback whales, grey whales (March to November), and even minke whales. It’s the most popular place to whale watch, with the most options. Plus there are plenty of amazing places to stay.
- Nanaimo: Conveniently located in the central part of the island, Nanaimo offers a variety of whale watching tours. With opportunities to see both humpback whales and orcas, as well as seals, sea lions, porpoises, and eagles.
- Cowichan Bay: Centrally located on the southern east coast of Vancouver Island, this quaint spot offers a chance to see Killer Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales and Minke Whales off the coast & Gulf Islands. You may also encounter California Sea Lions, Bald Eagles, Harbour Seals, Dalls and Harbour Porpoises.
- Tofino: Located on the rugged west coast of the island, Tofino is renowned for gray whale sightings, particularly during their migration season from March through May. As well as humpback whales May to September. They feed closer to shore in the summer months & can be seen in Clayquot Sound.
- Ucluelet: Just south of Tofino, Ucluelet offers a fantastic viewing point for both humpbacks and grey whales, along with a variety of other marine wildlife. The season is the same as Tofino. Whales can be seen into Barkley Sound. Orca sightings are rare.
- Telegraph Cove: This small community on the northeastern coast of Vancouver Island is one of the best places to spot orcas. Look out for the Northern Resident Orcas all year, Humpback Whales from May to September, plus Dolphins & Porpoises. They estimate 200 northern resident Orca Whales hang out in the Johnstone Strait.
- Campbell River: Known as the “Salmon Capital of the World,” Campbell River is a great spot for whale watching, with humpback whales frequently seen in the surrounding waters. Season runs All year for the resident orcas, and May to Sept / Oct. for Humpback Whales.
- Port Hardy: The northernmost point of Vancouver Island, Port Hardy is a fantastic spot for viewing orcas, humpback whales, and occasionally even Transient Orcas. Season is the same as Campbell River. Also look out for Pacific White-sided Dolphins, Stellar Sea Lions, porpoises, and Harbour Seals
Remember that sightings can never be guaranteed as these majestic creatures follow their own rhythms and patterns in the Salish Sea.
However, these locations offer some of the best chances to see whales in their natural habitat on Vancouver Island. Add these to your Vancouver Island Bucket List ideas
Vancouver Island Whale Watching Season
The Vancouver Island whale watching season typically runs from from late March through October, with peak season for visitors between June to September. It’s one of the best things to do in Victoria and on the island.
During these months, the chances of sighting a variety of species on the Salish Sea, including orcas (killer whales), humpback whales, and grey whales, have a success rate of up to 80 to 95%.
Orcas, the resident pods, are sighted year-round but are most frequently seen from April through October. Humpbacks make their grand appearances mostly from June to October.
So, if you’re keen on meeting these oceanic giants, plan your visit to Vancouver Island accordingly for the best whale watching experience!
10 BEST WHALE WATCHING TOURS VANCOUVER ISLAND
Here are some of the top spots for whale watching on Vancouver Island with responsible whale tour operators.
1. Zodiac Whale Watching Tour from Victoria, Prince of Whales
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Zodiac | 📍 LOCATION: Victoria, BC | ✅ Book it!
Victoria, BC is the most popular place for whale watching on Vancouver Island. And the Prince of Whales tour company offers many different time slots, making booking your trip at the time you want, easy.
Experience the ocean’s enchanting symphony in an entirely new way with this local favorite 3 hour Zodiac Whale Watching Tour by Prince of Whales. Right from the Inner Harbour in Victoria, BC.
Perfectly suited for thrill-seeking teens and adults alike, this open, zodiac boat tour will bring you face-to-face with the spectacular orcas, majestic humpback whales, steller sea lions, and more.
Up close and personal in their natural habitat, in the Juan de Fuca Strait on the Salish Sea.
⭐️ We had a great time! We saw many whales . It was an incredible experience. Highly recommended. Our guide went above and beyond to find us whales and we got to see humpbacks and orcas.
Danielle ⭐️ Prince of Whales Zodiac Tour review ⭐️
To ensure your comfort, all-weather flotation suits are provided, allowing you to enjoy your encounter, no matter the weather.
With a small group size of only 12 people, this tour promises a personalized experience, and unforgettable journey into the wondrous world of whales.
BEST FOR: Families with Teens & Adventurous folk
Leaves from: Victoria’s Lower Causeway, Inner Harbour, 812 Wharf St
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Includes: 3+ hr tour, whale guarantee, tour guide, flotation suits, conservation fee
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Also not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.
2. Victoria Whale & Wildlife Cruise with Eagle Wing
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Semi-Covered |📍 LOCATION: Victoria, BC | ✅ Book it!
Just recently, we embarked on this extraordinary adventure with Eagle Wing Whale Watching Tours. Picture yourself sailing on the serene waters of the Salish Sea, originating from Victoria, BC, aboard a semi-covered vessel.
What truly won us over about Eagle Wing? It was their semi-covered boat with a cozy capacity of just 50 people, perfect for keeping things intimate yet spacious. Plus they went out of their way to find whales on this 4 hour trip.
The excursion blew us away with its enthusiastic guides who know their stuff, prime seating that lets you soak in the breathtaking views, and unparalleled vistas of not just the local marine life, but also the majestic Olympic Mountains and the San Juan Islands.
⭐️ We had an amazing time, we saw so many whales and orcas during the trip. The crew was wonderful and replied to all our questions. It is definitely a life time experience. I highly recommend this company.
– Myriam ⭐️ Eagle Wing Whale review ⭐️
And let’s not forget the handy on-board washroom and a warm hideout to retreat from the chilly winds.
Embark on a treasure hunt for marine mammals, led by a certified naturalist, seeking out orcas, humpbacks, seals, and sea lions.
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: Everyone!
Leaves from: Fisherman’s Wharf, Downtown Victoria
Tour Size: Max 50 passengers
Operated by: Eagle Wing
Includes: 3.5+ hr tour, guides, whale guarantee, washrooms, indoor seating area, wildlife fee, 10% off vendors at Fisheman’s Wharf
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes, on the semi covered vessels only. Service animals allowed.
3. Sunset Whale Watching from Victoria, Prince of Whales
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Covered |📍 LOCATION: Victoria, BC | ✅ Book it!
Take an incredible journey, with this twilight whale-watching expedition with Prince of Whales, starting from Victoria. A unique experience
Journey through the waters of the Juan de Fuca Strait, catching sight of majestic bald eagles cutting through the sky above you, and witnessing humpback & killer whales frolic, swim and feed as the sun sets, painting the sky with a myriad of colors.
Take advantage of the three viewing decks on board. And when the cool night air creeps in, pop inside for a free hot drink to warm up.
📸 This sunet whale tour from Victoria, is a photographer’s dream. With a chance to capture the stunning vistas, vibrant hues, and the unique spectacle of sunset and whales.
⭐️ 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 review ⭐️
If you’re not a great photographer, not to worry. They’ll take epic wildlife photos during your tour, and send them to you electronically afterwards.
BEST FOR: Photographers, Couples, Families
Leaves from: Victoria’s Lower causeway, Inner Harbour, 812 Wharf St
Tour Size: Max 95 passengers
Operated by: Prince of Whales
Includes: 3+ hr sunset tour, guides, hot drinks, washrooms, inside seating area, free photos, wildlife viewing.
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Service animals allowed with documentation.
4. Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Zodiac |📍 LOCATION: Nanaimo, BC | ✅ Book it!
Ocean enthusiasts, get ready to hop on board this Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour for an marine adventure you’ll never forget.
⛴️ The BC Ferries also arrives in Nanaimo, BC, making it an easy stop for whale watching on a Vancouver Island road trip.
Keep your eyes wide and jaws dropped for the whole three hour boat ride. While cruising through the Gulf Islands archipelago in search of whales and other marine life.
Look out for majestic humpback whales breaking the surface, and playful pods of killer whales (orcas).
⭐️ This was a perfect day. Not only did we get SUPER lucky with the whales, the captain and the tour leader were both excellent. They answered every question we had, and always had the whales’ best interests in mind while making sure we got to see them. Probably the best day of my life so far.
MARIE ⭐️ Nanaimo Whale Watching Open Boat Tour review ⭐️
Don’t forget about the charming seals, agile sea lions, frolicking Dall’s porpoises, and soaring eagles. It’s like being right in a nature documentary.
Visitors love that their guides are so knowledgeable and enthusiastic.
They’re the kind of people who can answer all your whale-y tricky questions and will throw in an ocean of fun facts for good measure. (I couldn’t resist a good ocean pun.)
BEST FOR: Families with Teens & Adventurous folk
Leaves from: Front Street, the seawall along downtown Nanaimo’s waterfront
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Vancouver Island Whale Watch
Includes: 4 hr tour, guides, anti-exposure suits, toilets onboard, binoculars & sunscreen available to use.
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Also not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.
5. Nanaimo Whale Watching in a Semi-Covered Boat
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Semi-covered |📍 LOCATION: Nanaimo, BC | ✅ Book it!
This Whale Watching Tour in a semi-covered boat launches from beautiful Nanaimo, BC.
First stop, sailing straight into the heart of the Salish Sea on their family friendly semi-covered boat. Perfect for catching all the action.
On board the cozy, 12-passenger ship, you’ll get a chance to see humpbacks and orcas up close and personal. Without the crowds.
Had a fantastic afternoon following a few orca whale pods. Wonderful experience seeing them in their natural habitat. We even saw a breech! Was a fabulous experience and I’d recommend without hesitation.
– Melissa ⭐️ Nanaimo Whale Watching Semi Covered Boat review
Worried about a no-show? Don’t be. While their success rate is over 85%, they’ve got a whale watching guarantee that promises more than just a splash. (See what I did there?!?)
To sweeten the deal, you’ll be led by a marine naturalist guide, who’re very knowledgeable about these waters.
Get ready for a whale of a time, folks.
BEST FOR: Families & People Looking to avoid the crowds
Leaves from: Front Street, the seawall along downtown Nanaimo’s waterfront
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Vancouver Island Whale Watch
Includes: 4 hr tour, local guides, toilets onboard, sunscreen & binoculars available
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Also Not recommended for people with back problems.
6. Cowichan Bay Half Day Whale & Wildlife Adventure
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Zodiac |📍 LOCATION: Cowichan Bay, BC | ✅ Book it!
Cowichan Bay is just a quick 90 minute drive from Victoria, BC on the east coast of southern Vancouver Island.
These Cowichan Bay Whale & Wildlife tours leave from the super cute Cowichan Bay marina and town area. Save extra time for exploring the shops and restaurants after your tour.
Spend a good 3.5+ hours witnessing nature’s marine marvels up close. We’re talking Orca Whales, Transient Killer Whales, Humpback Whales, Grey Whales, and sometimes even Minke Whales.
The best part? They offer multiple tour times throughout the day to fit everyone’s schedule for a family-friendly outing. For an adventure of a lifetime.
It was really awesome. The captain and co-captain really knew how to spot the wildlife and were clearly passionate and well informed about them, sharing facts along the way. 10/10 would visit again!
Jorick ⭐️ Cowichan Bay Half Day Whale Wildlife Tour review ⭐️
They even do sunset whale watching tours, if you’re looking for even more dramatic photos with your sweetie.
Set sail for an unforgettable afternoon or breathtaking sunset journey, as you navigate the coastal waters and the picturesque Gulf Islands.
BEST FOR: Almost everyone (Kids must be 4+)
Leaves from: Cowichan May Marina 1721 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Ocean EcoVentures
Includes: 3.5+ hr tour, local guides, professional photographer, all taxes & fees
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes. Not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.
7. Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Telegraph Cove
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Zodiac |📍 LOCATION: Telegraph Cove, BC | ✅ Book it!
Telegraph Cove tours on the Johnstone Strait is the place for Humpback Whale sightings.
This is a not to miss activity if you’re spending time in northeastern Vancouver Island from end of April to September. Or want to get up close and personal with marine life without the hustle and bustle of a crowded boat.
Take this intimate, small group Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure, departing from the scenic Telegraph Cove, BC. It will be the highlight of your trip.
⭐️ Not only was our guide knowledgeable about the whales and marine wildlife, he was very attentive to our questions. We saw humpback whales, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises and bald eagles! It was the highlight of our family vacation.
Trek ⭐️ Telegraph Bay Zodiac Whale watching Tour review ⭐️
Zoom straight into the heart of the Johnstone Strait by zodiac boat, fully geared up in a safety suit.
Over the course of 3+ hours, you’ll be admiring humpback whales, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises, and even bald eagles. On a rare occasion you may even see a black bear on shore or orcas.
BEST FOR: Families with older kids (must be 4ft+) & adventurous folk
Leaves from: Telegraph Cove Marina & RV Park, Telegraph Cove, BC
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Prince of Whales
Includes: 3+ hr tour, local guides, all-weather suits, whale guarantee
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Not recommended for pregnant people, or those with back issues.
8. Salish Sea Whale Watching from Campbell River
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Covered |📍 LOCATION: Campbell River, BC | ✅ Book it!
Enjoy this Salish Sea Whale Watching Tour from Campbell River, on a covered boat.
In addition to the plentiful whale sightings, what makes this whale watching tour unique are the beach landings thanks to their special watercraft.
What really sets this tour apart though, are your Indigenous guides – ready to weave in threads of fascinating First Nations culture and history as you explore.
With a max of just 12 passengers and a minimum age of 2 years, it’s a cozy, family-friendly trip. From Campbell River and into the Homalco First Nation traditional territory of Bute Inlet.
⭐️ Culturally rich and meaningful experience with a connection to stories of the land. Our guides were very personable and knowledgeable. We saw alot of humpback activity. The boat ride was very comfortable with both indoor and outdoor seating and they even provided us with a pair of binoculars.
Sarah ⭐️ Salish Sea Whale Watching Tour review ⭐️
Step aboard this Salish Sea Whale Watching Tour from Campbell River for a truly unique and intimate wildlife viewing experience.
No crowded decks here, folks! Every passenger gets two dedicated seats – one snug inside a warm cabin, and another out in the open air.
Ready your cameras and binoculars because the stars of this show are the marine residents of the Salish Sea: playful dolphins, majestic orca whales, and a myriad of other marine life.
It’s more than just a tour; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of the sea and culture.
BEST FOR: Almost everyone, & learning from Indigneous Guides & Culture
Leaves from: 1003 B Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Homalco Wildlife and Cultural Tours
Includes: 4 hr tour, local Indigenous guides who share cultural stories & knowledge, snacks and beverages.
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Not recommended for people with back problems.
9. Kayaking with Whales and Wildlife Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Kayak & Covered |📍 LOCATION: Campbell River, BC | ✅ Book it!
Fancy an ocean of fun with two different activities? Whale watching by Kayak & covered boat.
Dive into this nine-hour, small-group whale watching adventure. It blends the best of both worlds.
First, paddle your kayaks through the serene coastal waters, keeping eyes peeled for playful dolphins, majestic sea lions, and other marine life.
Then, it’s ‘anchors aweigh’ as you swap your kayaks for a comfy, covered whale watching boat.
⭐️ This was a stunning trip, full of wildlife and the serenity of kayaking in the wilderness. We were picked up on Quadra Island and then set out for the tour. We didn’t just see two pods of orca’s, we saw sea lions, trees of eagles and to top it all a lovely small black bear on the way home. I would highly recommend this trip to anyone. It was truly a memorable lifetime experience.
Pearl ⭐️ Kayaking with Whales Tour review ⭐️
Feel the thrill of experiencing the ocean from two totally unique vantage points, both equally awe-inspiring and immersive. You’ll have front-row seats to what’s arguably the greatest natural show on earth.
Adventuring can work up an appetite, so they’ve got you covered with a tasty lunch, snacks, and piping hot drinks.
BEST FOR: Adventurous folk & Families
Leaves from: E Dock, Campbell River, BC, Canada
Tour Size: Up to 12 passengers
Operated by: Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours
Includes: 9 hr tour, transportation, kayaking equipment, lunch, snacks, coffee or tea, whale watching tour,
Wheelchair Accessible: No. Not recommended for people with back or heart problems.
10. Whale Watching & Sightseeing Tour in Ucluelet
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | 🚤 BOAT: Covered |📍 LOCATION: Campbell River, BC | ✅ Book it!
Your Whale Watching & Sightseeing Tour right here in Ucluelet, BC awaits.
Hop aboard the cozy, covered vessel, heated to just right and perfectly designed to keep you sheltered from whatever the weather decides to throw at you that day.
This experience is a crowd-pleaser, suitable for all ages. And with onboard toilets for when nature really does call.
⭐️ Highlight of our trip.Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Roomy boat. Once in a lifetime experience!!! Beautiful scenery and sooo much incredible wildlife!
Kevin ⭐️ Salish Sea Whale Watching Tour ⭐️
Guests rave about their super friendly guides who will not only introduce you to the local marine celebs (think gray whales, orcas, and humpback whales), but they’ll also fill you in on the scoop about the local area and its wild inhabitants.
An unforgettable day out on the water!
Whale watching is just one of the many amazing things to do in Ucluelet, BC.
BEST FOR: All Ages.
Leaves from: 1645 Cedar Rd, Ucluelet, BC
Tour Size: Up to 14 passengers
Operated by: Cameron Ocean Adventures
Includes: 3.5+ hr tour, local guides, onboard toilets, stroller accessible,
Wheelchair Accessible: No. No heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
Whale Watching Tips
Types of whales & wildlife off Vancouver Island
Common whales you may see on whale watching tour off Vancouver Island include:
- Orcas (Killer Whales): Majestic black and white whales with a arge dorsal fin. Transient (aka Bigg’s Killer Whales) eat mammals and roam the inner coast of Vancouver Island. The Northern & Southern Resident Orcas can be seen often when salmon spawning. The southern group has 3 pods.
- Minke Whales: Are the smallest of the baleen whales, with dark grey/black with white patches on their bodies. It’s in the same family as the humpback whale. They have a characteristic white band on each flipper. They frequent the Pacific Northwest during spring and fall.
- Humpback Whales: Are the largest whales, reaching up to 52 feet long. You can ID them by their distinct hump and long fins, which can reach up to the length of 1/3 of their body. Breaching is one if their spectacular beahviours, leaping with enough force to get 2/3 of their body out of the water.
- Grey Whales: The Pacific grey whale is a baleen whale as well. They have dark skin has with distinct grey patches and white mottling. A grey whale can dive up to 15 minutes and travel at speeds up to 9.6 kph (6 mph). They eat mostly worms, mollusks and other invertebrates.
In addition to these magnificent whales, you may also see California Sea Lions and Elephant Sea Lions lounging on rocks. Or Harbour Seals and Porpoises gracefully navigating through the waters.
Keep an eye out for the sleek and swift Dall’s Porpoise, as well as the energetic Pacific White-sided Dolphins.
Don’t forget to direct your gaze towards the skies, you might just catch sight of bald eagles and other marine birds that inhabit the west coast of Canada.
Many people enjoy seaplane tours in Victoria, as well as whale watching.
Types of Whale watching boats
There are two types of whale watching boats most tour operators use. These include:
- Smaller group (up to 12 passengers)
- Suitable for older kids
- Open Boat, more exposed to wind and water
- Provides a unique and personal experience at ocean level
Covered or Semi Covered Boat Tour:
- Provides a warmth and shelter away from the elements
- Larger group
- Better for families with young children
- Includes toilets for convenience
- Recommended for those prone to seasickness (Larger boat for better stability)
FAQs
Where is the best place to see whales in Vancouver Island?
The best place to see whales in Vancouver Island is during a whale watching tour from Victoria, BC. Victoria’s whale watching tours offer an abundant presence of whales, particularly orcas, grey and humpback whales feeding off the coast and around the nearby San Juan islands.
Final Thoughts: Whale Watching from Vancouver Island
As you embark on your journey to Vancouver Island, get ready for an unforgettable adventure that will take you into the majestic realm of the ocean’s giants. Whale watching is top of our list for a Victoria, BC itinerary.
The best whale watching tours from Vancouver Island offer many choices for epic experiences. Where you might just witness the awe-inspiring sight of orcas swimming, humpback whales breaching.
With knowledgeable guides, well-equipped vessels, and the chance to spot an array of marine wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and even bald eagles, these tours promise memories that will last a lifetime.
It’s time to set sail and witness the wonders of the deep blue sea like never before.
Check out our list of the top 10 whale watching tours from Victoria, Canada.
