Nowhere else in the world provides a whale watching show more spectacular than Vancouver Island. Around 250 orcas live in the waters off the northeast coast; while each year over 20,000 grey whales arrive off the west coast having migrated from the Gulf of Mexico.
Join a whale watching tour at Telegraph Cove, Tofino, Port McNeill or Johnstone Strait to see these magnificent creatures spout, breach and hunt. For a day you won’t forget, combine a whale watching tour with a trip to the hot springs near Tofino. Having spent the morning marvelling as whales emerge from the water beside your boat, you can pass the afternoon feeling the stress melt away in the warm waters of natural hot springs.
If you are visiting Victoria join a whale watching tour, we recommend taking a sunset evening cruise. Creating a truly unique atmosphere where you can enjoy watching the whales breach as the sun sets.
Top Tips from our Experts
Rozario
Destination Specialist
"In early May as the whale watching season starts, take a early morning tour as the cruise tend to be less crowded and this way you'll feel like you're on a private tour."
Great sample itineraries
Experience Whale Watching Vancouver Island as part of these itineraries
9 days
Vancouver Island Suggested Motorhome Itinerary
Explore the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island with your Cruise Canada motorhome on this 8 day suggested itinerary. Starting in Vancouver, enjoy the scenery by taking a leisurely stroll from Vancouver Harbour along the sea wall to Stanley Park, head...
Experience vibrant, cosmopolitan cities, incredible wildlife and the unrivalled beauty of Vancouver Island's scenery. Arriving first in the provincial capital of Victoria, where you'll hit the water for a world-class whale watching journey in the Strait of Georgia. Then, travel...
