Vancouver Whale Watching
Every summer some eighty orca whales visit the waters south of Vancouver. Travel out in search of these fascinating creatures and catch a glimpse of humpbacks, as well as sea lions and bald eagles.
Area
British Columbia
Type
Wildlife & Nature
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Leisurely
Duration
Half Day
Departing from the small fishing village of Stevenson, approximately forty minutes from downtown Vancouver, this whale watching tour travels through the Gulf and San Juan Islands. Chances of seeing Orca whales in the summer are high, and you'll also likely encounter humpback whales, sealions and seals. Rarely you might see Minke whales. The trip is taken on a comfortable, covered, high-speed boat, with wash room. Expect the experience to last between four and six hours inclusive of transfers from Vancouver.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View Accommodation
Fairmont Pacific Rim
With unobstructed views of the harbour and mountains beyond, the Fairmont Pacific Rim offers a prime location for exploring this vibrant and cosmopolitan city, with a stunning rooftop pool and terrace to unwind and enjoy the view from.
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View AccommodationFarewell Harbour Lodge
Nestled on Berry Island, surrounded by ten acres of pristine rainforest, Farewell Harbour Lodge is an authentic family owned and run lodge, and an excellent base from which to see Grizzly Bears and marine mammals in their natural habitat.
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View AccommodationClayoquot Wilderness Lodge
Part of the Baillie Lodges collection, Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is set in a breathtaking location in the heart of the forest, within a stone's throw of spectacular wildlife viewing, superb walking and a host of unforgettable outdoor experiences.
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View AccommodationNita Lake Lodge
Nita Lake Lodge in Whistler is a luxury four star boutique hotel, situated on the glistening shores of Lake Nita. Quiet and peaceful, the hotel is very relaxed and exceptional service is at the very heart of this beautiful lodge.
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View AccommodationThe Sutton Place Hotel Toronto
Situated in the heart of downtown Vancouver, Sutton Place is an understated choice, boasting stylish decor and well-appointed guest rooms. Its convenient location is without a doubt its draw, as you are placed just steps from the city's best attractions.
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View AccommodationWestin Resort and Spa, Whistler
Sitting at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountain, the Westin Resort is an excellent choice for those wishing to be in the heart of all the action. This all-suite hotel is the perfect base for families and couples exploring Whistler in the summer.
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View AccommodationNimmo Bay Resort
From the peaks of the BC coastal mountains to the Pacific Ocean below, the intimate Nimmo Bay offers an all-encompassing world class wilderness adventure. Choose from heli-ventures, marine adventures or a combination of the two.
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View AccommodationAlpine Meadows Resort
Nestled on pretty Hallamore Lake, just 14 miles South of Clearwater in the heart of British Columbia, Alpine Meadows offers rustic yet comfortable chalet and log cabin accommodation in a beautiful location on the edge of Wells Gray Park.
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View AccommodationRocky Mountaineer
The Rocky Mountaineer is one of the world's great train journeys. Over the course of two or three full days, this luxurious train travels to or from the Rocky Mountains with a choice of stunning routes, start points and destinations, in total comfort.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceGuided 1-hour Zodiac Nature Tour at Sonora
Go on an adventure in Sonora's 28-foot Eaglemaster. Kitted out with all the gear and headphones, communicate with your guide as you whiz through channels and whirlpools in search of porpoises, dolphins, orca whales and bald eagles swooping down to feed.
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View ExperienceCoastal Bear Watch from Tofino
Travel by Zodiac along the calm and tranquil waters of Clayoquot Sound in search of coastal black bears who wander down to the water's edge to forage for food. Viewing from the water ensures an up close encounter with these fascinating creatures.
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View ExperienceWhale Watching in Tofino
This tour takes you through the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound to view beautiful scenery and wildlife. Depending on the time of year, you could encounter gray whales, humpback whales, sea lions, sea birds and resident bald eagles.
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View ExperienceWhistler Bear Viewing Tour
Whistler has a population of around 50 black bears who have adapted to the alpine environment. This 3-hour tour takes you out to visit the areas most frequented by them with short walks to main feeding sites, day beds and rub trees. Travel by 4x4 vehicle
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View ExperienceDay 4 - Farewell Harbour Lodge
Today you'll choose to enjoy your last day at Farewell Harbour either on a guided rainforest hike, a marine excursion or take a short kayak around Farewell Harbour, and soak in this secluded and spectacular island in the Great Bear Rainforest.
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View ExperienceFirst Nations Canoe with T'ashii Paddle
Canoe in traditional cedar canoes to Meares Island and learn about First Nations history, knowledge and stories with Tsimka, the co-owner of the school and a Tla-o-qui-aht woman who grew up in her traditional territory, Tofino.
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View ExperienceVallea Lumina Experience
Enjoy a magical night time experience in the forests surrounding Whistler. Join an evening excursion in search of a hidden valley that’s filled with unexpected enchantment.
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View ExperienceDay 1 - Farewell Harbour Lodge
On your first day at Farewell Harbour, you'll arrive at the lodge by water taxi from Alder Bay. After a welcome orientation and lunch, you'll head off by boat in search of marine wildlife on the Johnson Strait.
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View ExperienceDay 2 - Farewell Harbour Lodge
Today will be a wildlife viewing day to remember as you head out by boat to on your first full day bear viewing adventure to one of the main grizzly viewing estuaries.
Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning