Explore the wonders of the Salish Sea and see different species of whales in their natural environment on a half-day cruise. Marvel at the different seals, sea lions, porpoises and other marine species on board a comfortable boat.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- Small group
- Limited to 12 participants
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 3.5 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Booklets
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Watch the marine wildlife in its natural habitat
- Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the local islands
- Get great photo opportunities as the captain helps you to catch the best angle
Full description
Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and take a tour to the quaint old fishing village of Cowichan Bay. Browse through an art gallery, grab a coffee, and enjoy some freshly made baked goods at the bay's infamous bakery before boarding on a small, personal whale watching vessel and heading out into the Salish Sea for some spectacular scenery and wildlife.
Experience the diversity of British Columbia's ecosystem with certified captains who are at the top of their fields in photography, whale research, and conservation and will be onboard for every trip to provide narration. Get the chance to see harbor seals hauling out on beautiful rocky shoals. Take photographs of humpback whales who have made a huge recovery since whaling ended at Vancouver's coast and are now a regular sight in the summer and fall. Discover distinct ecotypes of killer whales like the southern residents killer whales, who feed on salmon and the biggs killer whales who are mammal hunting whales that feed on seals, sea lions, porpoises and even other whales. During spring and fall time, you may even be lucky to see some steller sea lions, the biggest sea lions in the world.
This tour can be also used as an educational tour to help bridge the gap and give people a greater understanding and appreciation for this amazing coast. A portion of every fare is directly donated to the whale and wildlife conservation efforts and supports local researchers. Once your experience is finished, enjoy the rest of what the Cowichan Valley has to offer - spectacular restaurants, hikes, and wineries.
Includes
- Guided half-day tour
- Full body anti-exposure suit
- Hats and gloves
- Sunscreen
- Googles
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Food and drinks
- Gratuities
Not suitable for
- Children under 2 years
- Pregnant women
- People with back problems
- Wheelchair users
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Meet at our office. You will see the big red suits outside the door, a big killer whale mural and a "Whale Watching" sign.
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Warm clothing
- Sunscreen
Not allowed
- Pets
- Smoking
- Open-toed shoes
Know before you go
- This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility
- This tour is not recommended for pregnant women
- Please wear closed-toed shoes