Campbell River Whale Watching Tours

Vancouver Island offers some of the best whale watching opportunities in British Columbia. Our Campbell River whale watching tours cruise deep into the narrow channels and inlets of the Discovery Island Archipelago and Desolation Sound in search of the biggest and most exciting marine wildlife. Escape reality and be surrounded by mountains, tidal rapids, and wildlife on an adventure tour of a lifetime!

Wildlife we see in Campbell River

  • Humpback whales
  • Bigg’s (transient) killer whales
  • Pacific white-sided dolphins
  • Steller sea lions
  • California sea lions
  • Bald eagles
  • Harbor seals
  • Porpoises (Harbour & Dall’s)
  • Black bears
  • Grizzly bears
  • Colourful sea birds

Pick your favourite CAMPBELL RIVER Whale Watching tour

Zodiac Tour

See why Campbell River is quickly becoming known as whale watching hotspots on Vancouver Island! This is our most popular family-friendly tour, and takes place on our fun and stable zodiacs. Cruise throughout the Salish Sea and Desolation Sound in search of the biggest and most exciting marine mammals that call this region home. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for breaks at interesting and historical sites in this beautiful area. 

What’s included:

campbell river whale watching tour orca killer whale

Covered Vessel Tour

 Cruise deep into the current-swept channels and inlets of the Discovery Islands Archipelago. This tour takes place aboard our covered vessels which have a comfortable indoor seating area and spacious outdoor viewing deck. This tour covers a vast area where we often encounter humpback whales, killer whales, bears, sea lions, seals, dolphins, and a range of colourful sea birds. Join us for this incredible once-in-a-lifetime Campbell River whale watching tour!

What’s included:

How to view the famous “Eagle Show” in 2024

Witness hundreds of bald eagles feeding in the tidal currents! On specific dates on our 7 Hour Big Animal Encounter Tour, we will visit this spectacular natural phenomenon near Campbell River. Learn more about the Eagle Show here, and click the button below to find out which dates to book!

Welcome Aboard Big Animal Encounters

Based in Campbell River and Comox on beautiful Vancouver Island. We’re a passionate and professional team of wildlife enthusiasts – and we can’t wait to welcome you aboard for the whale watching tour of a lifetime!

Click below to learn more about us and meet our crew.

Would you rather have your own private boat tour?

You’re the admiral as we explore Desolation Sound under the towering scenic mountains and current-swept bays. Hire a vessel and crew for the day, and bring your friends and family along for a Campbell River whale watching tour they will not soon forget! Zodiacs and covered vessels available.

Custom and personalized private boat tours for:

  • Photographers
  • Families 
  • Birthday parties
  • Corporate events… and more!
bald eagle campbell river
Big Animal Encounters

Feathered Friends of Campbell River

Most people go on a whale watching tour in Campbell River with one goal: to see whales. And yes, whales are incredible to encounter! But

Big Animal Encounters

The Impressive Migration of Humpback Whales

In the pristine waters of the Pacific Northwest a magnificent marine migration unfolds every year, drawing attention to one of the most awe-inspiring journeys in