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.

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

humpback whale spyhopping beside zodiac. campbell river whale watching vancouver island

Zodiac Tour

See why Campbell River is quickly becoming known as a whale watching hotspot 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 vancouver island 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 tour!

What’s included:

Welcome Aboard Big Animal Encounters

Based in Campbell River 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 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!

HOW TO VIEW THE FAMOUS “EAGLE SHOW” THIS YEAR

Be surrounded by hundreds of swooping bald eagles and bubbling tidal rapids. On specific tidal currents near Stuart Island, BC, hundreds of bald eagles migrate to feed on hake fish in the tidal currents. Book our 7 Hour Big Animal Encounter Tour on the special dates posted and witness this incredible natural phenomenon!

Big Animal Encounters

Dolphins and Porpoises of Campbell River

Dolphins and porpoises are part of the toothed whale family Odontocete. There are a number of dolphin and porpoise species in British Columbia’s waters, with

Book 3, Get The 4th Spot FREE!

Give the gift of adventure this spring with our exciting 4 Hour Whale & Wildlife TourDepart from Campbell River and encounter humpback whales, killer whales, sea lions, bears, thrilling tidal rapids, and more. 

Book 4 or more seats, get one free! Use the code “4SPRING2023” at checkout on dates from May 19th – June 23rd.