About this experience
Immerse yourself in BC's coastal wildlife as you travel through the gulf islands archipelago in search of killer whales (orcas), humpbacks, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and more. Your guide has an academic background in biology and a passion for marine life! Whale sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is FREE. You'll cruise through the Salish Sea in comfort and style onboard Kula, our 12-passenger vessel. Kula offers covered seating with sliding windows at each seat and a large open deck at the back of the vessel that provides unobstructed views of scenery and wildlife.
At a glance
- Duration: 4 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 4 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Compare the available options before choosing: their itinerary, inclusions and pickup arrangements can differ. Check the price for your date and whole group.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Toilets onboard
- Binoculars onboard (shared between guests)
- Sunscreen available
- Captain is certified by Transport Canada
- Professional guide with academic background in marine biology
Not included
- The listed price does not include parking, which costs around 5-7 dollars CAD for the day.
- Lunch is not included.
- Gratuities
- Transportation to/from office
Itinerary and highlights
Your day begins by checking in at our office 45 minutes before your departure time and then you'll head down to the boat as a group.
You'll then be introduced to the Salish Sea ecosystem and wildlife as you cruise through the Gulf Islands archipelago in search of whales and other marine life. You'll learn about the different types of whales that use the Salish Sea, including their natural history, and their roles in the marine food web.
Throughout your adventure, your captain will be in touch with other whale watching companies over VHF radio and will plan your route to maximize the area covered between vessels.
You'll spend a full hour viewing whales, and your marine naturalist will provide real-time insights into their behaviours. Onboard catalogues are used to identify individual whales, and this data will be collected throughout the season and sent to the Centre for Whale Research, Keta Coastal Conservation, and the BC Cetacean Sightings Network.
Your tour will wrap up with an educational talk on marine conservation focusing on threats to BC orca, and conservation initiatives will be discussed.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- Our office is located on Front Street on downtown Nanaimo's seawall.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Vancouver Island Whale Watch
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
- Not suitable for pregnant women.
- Minimum numbers apply. If there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, there is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation, in which case an alternative date or full refund will be offered.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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