Join us for the experience of a lifetime aboard our British Columbia Grizzly Bear Expedition!
Depart from our Campbell River Marine Adventure Centre aboard our comfortable, heated, covered vessels for a scenic 2-hour boat trip through Desolation Sound Marine Park. Your arrival at the dock in Orford Bay begins a 3-hour land experience led by members of the Homalco First Nations. Guides will transport you by bus to a variety of raised wildlife viewing platforms and prime ground viewing locations to look for the magnificent grizzly bear, elk, bald eagles, and more. The grizzly bears converge on the Orford River valley between August and October every year to feast on the spawning salmon in preparation for the long winter hibernation.
During our trip to and from Bute Inlet you may also see killer whales, humpback whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, black bears, seals and sea lions – all in an unspoiled natural environment.
Lunch is served on the boat in Orford Bay with an unobstructed view of the estuary and its spectacular mountain surroundings.
Your expedition starts at our Campbell River Marine Centre where you will meet our friendly, professional crew and briefed on the safety of our confortable covered vessels. From there we will make our way deep into Desolation Sound, keeping our eyes open for whales and other marine mammals in the area.
After a scenic 2 hour boat ride, we'll arrive at the Orford River in Bute Inlet where you will be met by members of the Homalco First Nations on their traditional territory. After learning about the Grizzlies and traditional Indigenous culture, you'll be taken by road into the forest where there are numerous elevated viewng platforms allowing for up close and personal grizzly watching opportunities. The land-based portion of the tour lasts an an average of three hours.
We operate heated covered vessels, however please ensure you dress for the ever-changing weather of the British Columbia coast.
Consider bringing:
Due to the extremely high cost and volatile pricing of fuel there is a fuel levy added to all tours. 5% Goods and Services Tax is also not included.
We reserve the right to alter itineraries and vessels based on weather, availability, animal locations, mechanical breakdowns or other factors which our skipper / crew consider imperative.
Our crew work very hard to make your trip as exciting and comfortable as possible and are always greatly appreciative of gratuities received for good service.
Our vessel must depart on time and as a result we cannot wait for late passengers.
Contact us directly for any details not listed here. Toll Free: 1-877-800-3483 or +1-250-338-3219
Our Grizzly Expeditions operate on a minimum passenger load of 8. If we do not meet the minimums we will take the following steps;
- You may choose to rebook on another date,
- We will do our best to schedule you onto another tour provider,
- You may request a full refund without penalty
Thank you for your understanding.