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March 18, 2026
At Prince of Whales, we believe that understanding wildlife is just as important as seeing it. That is why we are proud to sponsor the Orcas: Our Shared Future travelling exhibition at the Royal BC Museum. This powerful exhibit explores the deep and evolving relationship between humans and orcas, combining science, storytelling, and immersive experiences to highlight both the beauty of these animals and the challenges they face today.
For us, education is a core pillar of what we do. Every day on the water, we aim to connect guests not just to wildlife, but to the bigger story behind it. This exhibit reflects that same goal on land, helping visitors better understand the lives of orcas and what it takes to protect them into the future.
A Difficult History: Orcas in British Columbia
During the 1960s and early 1970s, the Salish Sea was the centre of a global capture industry. Orcas, particularly Southern Resident killer whales, were captured for aquariums and marine parks. In total, hundreds of orcas were taken from the Salish Sea, with a significant portion coming the Southern Resident populations.
One of the most well-known events was the 1970 Penn Cove capture, where entire families were chased, separated, and young whales were taken into captivity. These events had long-lasting effects on the population. Today, there are only around 74 Southern Resident killer whales remaining, making them one of the most endangered whale populations in the world.
Because of this, at Prince of Whales, we do not watch Southern Resident killer whales. Instead, we focus on other species such as Bigg’s killer whales and humpback whales, ensuring our tours support responsible wildlife viewing.
Why This Exhibit Matters
Experiences like whale watching and museum exhibits play an important role in conservation. When people learn about orcas, their family structures, their intelligence, and the challenges they face, it creates a deeper connection. That connection often leads to action, whether it is supporting conservation efforts, reducing environmental impact, or simply spreading awareness.
Education is not separate from what we do; it is at the heart of it. Every tour, every conversation, and every partnership is an opportunity to inspire stewardship and respect for the ocean.
How to See the Exhibit
You can experience Orcas: Our Shared Future at the Royal BC Museum from February 27 to July 27, 2026. The exhibit is included with general admission and offers an engaging and informative look into the world of orcas. After its time in Victoria, the exhibit will continue to travel to communities across British Columbia and beyond. If you are not local, keep an eye out. There is a good chance it will arrive at a museum near you in the future!
