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
Teens
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 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 AccommodationWest Coast Wilderness Lodge
On the edge of the wilderness yet within 3 hours' drive of Vancouver or a scenic sea plane ride away, West Coast Wilderness Lodge is in an idyllic location with luxury accommodation, fine food and plenty of water activities and wildlife viewing to enjoy.
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View AccommodationEcho Valley Ranch & Spa
Echo Valley Ranch offers a fusion of guest ranch, adventure lodge and luxury wellness retreat in the heart of Canada's "cowboy country". Usually adult only, during July and August they also welcome families looking for a comfortable ranch experience.
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View AccommodationRosewood Hotel Georgia
Lovingly restored, the elegant Rosewood Hotel Georgia offers an oasis of calm and relaxation in the heart of Vancouver. This luxurious hotel offers a fusion of old world glamour and modern amenities including a fabulous pool and terrace.
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View AccommodationLoden Hotel
Located on a residential street just a few minutes walk from Vancouver's beautiful Coal Harbour and 10 minutes in to the centre of the city, the boutique Loden Hotel offers a warm welcome and distinctive personalized service in the heart of the city.
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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 AccommodationMiddle Beach Lodge
Set on the edge of Tofino's wild coast, Middle Beach Lodge is perfectly hidden amongst towering cedar trees whilst boasting spectacular ocean views. Rustic and cosy in style, the lodge is the ideal retreat after a day of island adventures.
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View AccommodationFairmont Waterfront Vancouver
Conveniently located just a stone's throw from Vancouver's beautiful harbour with its walkways, restaurants and bars, the Fairmont Waterfront offers a contemporary style and superb facilities making it the ideal base for your Vancouver stay.
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View AccommodationLong Beach Lodge
A relaxed family friendly lodge perched on a stunning surf beach at Cox Bay, just 10 minutes South of Tofino. Long Beach Lodge offers a fantastic base for beachcombing, whale and bear watching, surfing and exploring the Pacific Rim National Park
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 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 ExperienceDay 3 - Farewell Harbour Lodge
Today you'll be back on the water for another bear viewing safari or you can opt for an extenstive exploration of the Johnstone Strait in search of whales.
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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 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 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.
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View ExperienceZip Trek Eagle Tour
The exhilarating and exciting Ziptrek Eagle Tour sees you travel along 5 ziplines, including a 2,400ft awe inspiring monster that makes this the perfect choice for those who are seeking an adrenaline pumping adventure!
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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 ExperienceStanley Park Cycling Tour
This is definitely more than just a ride in the park! Your guide will weave through pristine forest trails that criss-cross through iconic Stanley Park, bringing this amazing wilderness city to life with their commentary.
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View ExperienceGranville Island Market Tour
Our local foodie connoisseurs will bring to life Canada's best-known public market on a fun-filled tour. Led by a chef guide, the tour will be a true highlight for your taste buds. Enjoy donuts, sourdough breads, locally-cured meats and other treats!
Call us on 020 8682 5030 to start planning