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May 1, 2026
Planning a whale watching tour in British Columbia? Whether you’re joining us in Victoria, Vancouver, or Telegraph Cove it’s natural to have a few questions before heading out on the water.
From the best time to what whales will we see to what to wear on board, here are the answers to some of the most common whale watching questions we hear from guests.
1. What whales can you see in British Columbia?
The Salish Sea and Johnstone Strait are two world-renowned whale watching destinations, known for the incredible diversity of marine wildlife found along the coast.
Depending on the season, you may spot:
- Humpback Whales
- Orcas
- Gray Whales
- Minke Whales
- Fin Whales
Our waters are also home to sea lions, harbour seals, bald eagles, porpoises, and a huge variety of seabirds, making every tour a unique experience!
2. Will we really see whales?
While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, British Columbia offers some of the most consistent whale watching opportunities in the world. Our experienced captains and certified marine naturalists work together using years of local knowledge, along with communication between vessels, to locate whales and other marine wildlife responsibly and respectfully. As a result, our tours have a 95% whale sighting success rate.
In the rare event that no whales are seen during your tour, our whale sighting guarantee allows you to return for another trip at any of our locations by paying only a small conservation fee.
3. What should I wear whale watching?
Even on warm summer days, it can feel cooler out on the ocean than it does on land, especially when the boat is moving. The glare off the water can also make it feel much brighter than expected, even on cloudy days.
We recommend bringing:
- Warm layers
- A waterproof jacket
- Comfortable closed-toe shoes
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A hat or toque depending on the season
4. Are whale watching tours safe?
Yes, our tours are extremely safe. Our captains are highly trained and maintain safe viewing distances from wildlife at all times to protect both guests and wildlife. Before departure, every tour includes a full safety orientation so you know exactly what to expect on the water.
Our catamaran tours are very family-friendly and can accommodate guests of all ages, offering a stable and comfortable experience with both indoor and outdoor viewing areas. Our Zodiac tours are also safe, but are designated for ages 7+ due to the more active nature of the experience.
5. Do people get seasick on whale watching tours?
Most guests are pleasantly surprised by how comfortable the experience is on the water. Our larger catamarans and cruisers are designed to provide a smooth, stable ride, with spacious indoor and outdoor viewing areas so guests can relax and move around throughout the tour. That said, ocean conditions can change from day to day, and some guests may be more sensitive to motion than others.
If you are concerned about seasickness, we recommend:
- Taking motion sickness medication before departure
- Staying well hydrated
- Spending time outside in the fresh air on the tour
- Looking toward the horizon while underway
- Avoiding heavy meals before your tour
6. Can I bring a camera on a whale watching tour?
Whale watching tours offers incredible photography opportunities, from breaching humpback whales to dramatic coastal scenery and diverse marine wildlife. Guests are more than welcome to bring cameras on board any of our whale watching vessels.
On our Half-Day tours, our crew members also capture high-quality photos throughout the experience using DSLR cameras. After the tour, guests receive a complimentary photo package featuring professionally captured wildlife images from their trip, allowing them to spend more time enjoying the experience and less time worrying about getting the perfect shot.
7. Do I need to make a reservation for whale watching?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially during the busy summer season. Whale watching tours can sell out quickly during peak travel months, weekends, and holidays. Booking in advance helps secure your preferred departure time and tour type.
If you have questions before booking, our team is always happy to help you choose the best whale watching experience for your trip.
Ready for Your Whale Watching Adventure?
Whale watching is an unforgettable experience and one of the best ways to connect with the wildlife and natural beauty of the West Coast. Whether you’re hoping to see orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, or breathtaking coastal scenery, every trip out on the water offers something different.
If you still have questions before your tour, be sure to visit our FAQ page or contact our team anytime.
