boat tours in tofino

charter boatinG adventures

In clayoquot sound, traditional ha houlthee of the tla-o-qui-aht nation.

Tofino's Charter BOAT ADVENTURE COMPANY

WHERE GETTING OFF THE BOAT IS ENCOURAGED.

FLOATING SAUNA TOURS

Minutes from town you will feel a world away at our floating sauna & camp complete with all amenities for a day of adventure.

Fishing Charters & Personalized Ocean Adventures in Tofino.

Join us on the water for an unforgettable experience in Tofino, British Columbia. We offer Fishing Charters, whale watching and wildlife adventures as well as custom ocean adventures.

Our Mission.

First and foremost we are dedicated to sharing an unforgettable day on the water – whether it’s fishing, wildlife spotting, or simply taking in the raw, natural beauty of Tofino. Our passion is creating adventure-filled experiences that will leave you with lifelong memories, a camera roll full of photos, and a better understanding of beautiful Tofino. Because we believe the best way to experience Tofino is from the water. In all our adventures we maintain a sustainable approach to fishing, focus on education, and are always working to conserve our local waters so they can continue to be as clean and vibrant for future generations to come.

Let’s bring your ideal adventure to life – whether you want to catch your dinner, get some quality time in with the wildlife, or just explore new areas, we are here to help you create it.

1000+ Happy Customers

5* reviews on google, trip advisor & fishbooker, certified title angling guide (ctag), tribal parks alliance member, what we do..

Fishing Charters

Tofino Ocean Adventures half day and full day fishing charters for a variety of species found along our coast. This includes Salmon, Halibut, Ling Cod and a variety of Rock Fish. Rates start at $800+GST for groups of 4.

Whale Watching

The Tofino coastline is an extremely active place and there is no better option than seeing it from the water. Whales species include Grey Whales, Humpbacks and Orcas. Other wildlife you can encounter are Seals, Sea Lions, Otters, Bears, Wolves and more. Rates start at $800+GST for groups of 4.

Custom Adventures

Whether you’re looking for a combination of Fishing and Whale Watching or you want to Crab and relax at the Hot Springs. We’re happy to accommodate your dream trip. Rates start at $800+GST for groups of 4.

Kind words from our amazing clients.

Call 1 (250) 720-5619 to book your adventure today.

tofino chartered tours

Year Round Customize to Suit

Sip on a cocktail while cruising along the shores and in sheltered areas of iconic Clayquot Sound with family and friends. Or gather colleagues for a barbeque on the back deck of Nanuq before swimming in Cannery Bay. Or bring your special corporate group out on a private whale watch or cultural tour.

Whatever the special occasion or gathering, reserve one of our vessels for your group. Our staff will work with you to arrange a memorable experience. Private charters are available for:

• Private wildlife tours
• Photography tours
• Surfing tours
• Corporate functions
• School functions and educational tours
• Birthday parties
• Fundraisers
• Other events/functions

The West Coast Aquatic Safaris charter experience includes private use of a heated cabin vessel with on-board restroom, certified and experienced marine crew.

TOFINO CHARTERED TOUR TIMES

Tofino chartered duration.

Customized per tour

cultural tours —

Whale tours —.

• Other events/functionstions

TOFINO CHARTERED TOUR DURATION

© Copyright 2024 West Coast Aquatic Safaris, Tofino, BC, Canada All rights reserved —  Privacy 1-250-725-9227

BOOKING POLICY | CAREERS | FAQs Agent/Resellers Login

• Whale Watching
• Bear Watching
• Hot Springs Cove
• Seasonal Tours
• Bird Watching
• Cultural Tours
• Chartered Tours Tofino
• Accessible Tours
• Gray Whales
• Humpback Whales
• Black Bears
• Bald Eagles
• Harbour Seals
• Harbour Porpoises
• About Tofino

Booking Policy

Agents/Resellers Login

• Family-Friendly

Calm Waters of Tofino Scenic Cruise

Quick Details

• Map Marker Location: Tofino
• User Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 2-2.5 hours

Enjoy a unique Tofino experience featuring sweeping panoramic views of Clayoquot Sound, the surrounding mountains and islands, rainforest, and wildlife on this scenic cruiser boat tour.

Join us as we depart from the town of the Tofino, heading for the calm inlets nearby. Throughout your journey, you’ll enjoy not only beautiful views but also get to enjoy some of the local wildlife in our ecosystems. Our knowledgable and enthusiastic crew will also be thrilled to share many fun facts about everything you see along with some interesting history & culture of the area.

*Whale/Bear sightings not guaranteed*

• Chevron down Our Vessels

Our Vessels: the Stellar Sea/Pacific Springs or Eagle 44

PLEASE NOTE: The vessel we depart on depends on the number of total guests and other factors.

Stellar Sea Our covered-panoramic view cruiser was specially designed for viewing bears in Clayoquot Sound. It is equipped with large panoramic windows that fully open, as well as a thoughtfully designed seating layout, offering great views for everyone onboard.

Some features of the Stellar Sea include:

– Seating for up to 40 passengers – Full commentary by captain and naturalists – Indoor heated seating – Onboard washroom – Fully certified, well-trained crew – Transport Canada Certified Vessel

Pacific Springs/Eagle 44

Travel in the comfort of our cabin cruiser, the Pacific Springs or Eagle 44

Some features of the Pacific Springs and Eagle 44 include:

– Full commentary by your skipper – Indoor heated seating – Open rear deck for wildlife viewing – Marine Toilet

*NOTE: Vessels are not wheelchair accessible.*

• Chevron down What To Expect

Throughout the tour, we’ll cruise the calm inlet waters around Tofino surrounded by the sprawling mountains, islands, and rainforest. As we cruise, we’ll stop along the way to point out some of our local wildlife which could include whales, bears, seals, sea otters, sea lions and various birds. There’ll also be plenty of opportunities to snap some pictures of the beautiful surroundings. Our knowledgeable crew will also share plenty of fun facts about our local ecosystem as well as interesting historic stories about Tofino & Clayoquot Sound.

• Chevron down Frequently Asked Questions

What wildlife will I see on this tour?

Every day and every tour throughout our seasons are unique. This means the wildlife sightings will vary from tour-to-tour. It’s possible you will see some of the following wildlife: whales, bears, seals, sea otters, sea lions, eagles & other birds, porpoises and more! You will also be treated to the stunning landscapes of Clayoquot Sound throughout the duration of your tour which can often make you feel like you’re living in a dream.

What if I don’t see wildlife on my tour?

Unlike our dedicated whale or bear watching tours, we do not offer a raincheck ticket if you do not see wildlife for this tour. While you may not see a whale or bear, we should be able to show you other wildlife throughout Clayoquot Sound’s diverse ecosystem.

What should I bring on my tour?

We recommend that you dress in warm layered clothing for all our tours. Also recommended are a camera, gloves, hat, binoculars, and most importantly – your sense of adventure!

Do I need to worry about seasickness?

This tour will primarily travel to the sheltered inlets around Clayoquot Sound which mean you should not have to worry about seasickness.

• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

Our Clayoquot Sound Nature Tour has a 24 -hour cancellation policy . If any cancellations are received, including a reduction in the passenger numbers, within 24 hours of the tour departure refunds will not be issued. Any cancellations outside of 24-hours will receive a 100% refund.

• Chevron down Safety

At Jamie’s, the safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we have extensive training and vessel maintenance schedules in place and have made significant investments in ensuring we have safety and life-saving equipment on our vessels that not only meet, but exceed Transport Canada standards.

Before each tour, our crew will gather all guests for a safety briefing while also distributing Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) to each individual.

• Chevron down Covid-19

Please read & understand our Covid-19 Safety Pledge & Updates before booking your tour.

• Chevron down Booking Policies & Fees

Minimum Passengers Required

Please note that we do require a minimum of 4 passengers to confirm a departure. If we do not have 4 or more passengers on a tour we will attempt to reschedule to another day or refund your purchase.

All tours are subject to the signing of a waiver releasing Jamie’s Whaling Station from liability. Reading, understanding, and accepting the terms of this waiver is necessary in order to take part in any Jamie’s Whaling Station tour. Read the waiver here . Waivers are sent with confirmation emails and can be completed before arriving for your departure. If you are purchasing tickets for other guests, you must ensure that all guests read and sign their own waiver.

Booking Fees

In addition to the listed fees on this page, all bookings will have the additional fees added at checkout:

-6% Booking Fees (online only)

-$3 Research, Rescue & Education Fee (per person)

Raincheck Guarantee

Please note, that unlike our whale and bear watching tours, we do not have a raincheck guarantee for our Calm Waters of Tofino Scenic Cruise.

Today's Tours Whale Watching at 11:30 AM Bear Watching at 3:00pm Hot Springs Special: use coupon code SPRINGS to receive a $10 discount per person for your Hot Springs Tour

ADVENTURE TOFINO

Wildlife tours.

Rated as Tofino's #1 Tour Operator on Tripadvisor

come to see these giant whales!

Calm waters, beautiful scenery!

informative, fun and always on the lookout !!

We are a small family owned company which offers personalized tours in smaller groups of maximal 12 passengers for an unforgettable wildlife experience! With our two open Zodiacs you will experience our whale watching, bear watching and hot springs tours with an open panoramic view which is great to watch the animals, take good pictures and take in the stunning sights of the area surrounding Tofino. 

One of our experienced  guides  will take you out on the water to show you the wonderful nature and wildlife out there. They will be happy to share their knowledge with you. With their passion and respect for the wildlife and nature they will show you the beauty which the waters around Tofino have to offer. 

All our tours are operated with our open Zodiacs and passengers are equipped with full body Mustang Survival Suits for their safety and comfort. For windy or/and rainy days we also provide additional rain jackets as well as gloves and toques for colder days. 

Come with us and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the calm waters of the beautiful Clayoquot Sound Inlets to watch the black bears moving rocks to feed on crabs and other shellfish.

Join us on an adventurous boat-ride out on the Pacific Ocean in search for the whales. You may also get to see other wildlife along the way such as sea lions, seals, sea otters and bald eagles.

Relax in the hot pools of the remote Hot Springs Cove and walk through the majestic rainforest with its big trees and ancient plants. During the 1.5 hour boat ride you get the chance of watching wildlife and enjoy a beautiful scenery.

Please find more information about our whale watch, bear watch and hot springs tours  on the following pages and we look forward to welcome you on board soon!

Meet The Guides

Captain & Owner Jens Kalwa

Growing up on the East Coast of Vancouver Island and on the water since he was 13 years old, Jens knows the ocean like the back of his hand. "learning from my father how to drive boats, catch fish and behave around ocean wildlife, was the start to my big interest in everything that involved the ocean. It became my passion to be in or on the water wether it was surfing and getting to know the changes of ocean swells and tides or being on the boat to observe marine wildlife". He made his passion to his Career in the year of 2007 when he moved to Tofino and started Adventure Tofino Wildlife Tours. With so many larger tour operators already established in Tofino, my goal was to provide a different wildlife experience for my guests, tours in smaller groups and with a more personal touch. "Right from the start I received great support. Friends which already worked in Tofino as tour guides would share their knowledge with me and people who liked what I was offering would sent their guests my way. This was a very positive start and I am very thankful for that".

Now with two boats in operation and with the support of a small team of great people, I am excited that together we can let people from all over the world be part of this adventure."

Captain Jeffrey Warden

Jeff joined our team in 2018 after guiding tours in Tofino's waters since 2016. Jeff is a real adventurer with a great personality and a huge love for the ocean and  wildlife.

When you are on a tour with Jeff and you listen to how he talks about the animals, with passion and in his deep and calm voice, you just don't want to stop listening!

 His love for the ocean makes him want to be on, in and above it. He loves scuba diving,  flying airplanes and skydiving. 

When Jeff is not on the water he is in 10000ft hight skydiving over Long beach and spotting whales from up there as a Tandem Instructor from Point Break Skydiving in Tofino.

Captain Jordan Koroll

Jordan was born and raised in a beautiful small lakeside town in Central Ontario, Canada. From an early age, watersports were an avid passion of his and through his travels wildlife became a great focus in his life. He paired the two by studying an Honors Bachelor of Health Sciences with a specialization in mammalian anatomy, physiology and biomechanics. 

His inquisitive nature and deep passion for both the cultural and natural history of many areas of the world have allowed him to guide in some incredible places. Bouncing from Canada’s Sub-Arctic with the King of the North’s beautiful polar bears, to the ends of the earth guiding kayak expeditions around the Antarctic continent. Jordan always looks forward to heading back to BC’s beautiful West Coast for the summer seasons. The Pacific Northwest wildlife draws him back time and time again, but when he is not skippering on the water you can find him running along the local trails, enjoying a nice early morning paddle, or sipping a delicious cup of coffee in town. 

Our two boats "Azonic" and "Guardian 2" which we use for all of our tours are open 26 ft Zodiacs which take up to 12 passengers. 

Whale Watching Tofino, Bear Watching Tofino, Hot Springs Tours Tofino

Site Search

Popular content, adventure tofino wildlife tours.

• Gatherings & Events
• NAAʔUU Tla-o-qui-aht Cultural Experience
• Songs for the Sound
• Sea of Lights

• Book Accommodation
• Book an Adventure

Hot Springs Cove

Hop aboard the Hot Springs Cove Tour to experience these natural pools, fed by ethereal geothermal waterfalls. Take in a scenic 30-nautical-mile boat ride where you’ll see beautiful coastal wildlife, and wander along a 1.5km cedar boardwalk through majestic old-growth forest on the way to these enchanting hot springs.

Be sure to review our FAQ section at the bottom of the page before booking.

The Black Fish

Our spacious 12 seat boat ensures you are not fighting the crowds to take in the coastal of the views. We guarantee a stress-free and intimate experience making your trip to the Hot Springs unforgettable.

The Black Fish is a covered boat with a little viewing platform. So, you don’t need to worry if the weather is a little wet.

• Tour Duration 6 Hours
• Availability Year-round
• Guests up to 12
• Per Person $229 + fees*
• $16 fuel surcharge
• $17 stewardship
• $3 access fee (all funds go to the hosting nation, Ahousaht)
• 1% Tribal Park Allies supports the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in the restoration and guardianship of their lands.
• 1% eco fees supports the protection and conservation of wild salmon populations in Clayoquot Sound.

Hot Springs Cove FAQ

• Water shoes or shoes with grip — the springs can be very slippery
• Warm clothes (layers are best)  
• Bathing suite / towel
• Bathrobe (nice to have item)
• Lunch (we have picnic lunches available for purchase, inquire at [email protected] or through the booking platform) 
• Binoculars   
• 1-hour boat ride to get to destination.
• 30-45-minute boardwalk into the hot springs (for persons of average fitness).
• 2-hour soak in hot springs/enjoy the view from the point of Hot Springs Cove.
• 30-45-minute boardwalk back to the dock for pick up.
• 1-hour boat ride back to the dock.  

Although the 1.5 km board walk is well maintained and considered an easy hike, persons with mobility issues should take note of the length and stairs within the trail. In general, most people have no trouble completing the hike in, which can take between 30-40 minutes for persons of average fitness. The Hot Springs Cove hike is not suitable for wheelchairs. The natural rock descending to the hot spring pools can be slippery and uneven, please be cautious. This section may be difficult for people with mobility issues.

Hot Springs Cove is a remote destination within Maquinna Marine Provincial Park. There is no potable water access or services. Hot Springs Cove does have out houses and changing rooms. The water is very hot, please be mindful of the time spent within the pools and be sure to stay hydrated. The boardwalk and rocks can be slippery at times, please take caution.

• Primary Tour Guide Contact ( 250-725-0699 )
• [email protected]

Tofino Whale Watching

Tofino, British Columbia, is one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations.

Lunar Fishing Charters and Tours is committed to sustainable tourism practices. We aim to provide a memorable whale-watching experience while minimizing our impact on the local ecosystem. Our experienced guides are knowledgeable about the area’s marine wildlife and the unique habitats in which they thrive and are committed to providing informative and fun tours for guests!

PLEASE FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH ALL SAFETY GUIDELINES

All prices are subject to applicable taxes and required surcharges., bear watching tofino.

• 3 Hour Tour
• Departs at 9 AM, 12 PM, 3 PM
• Private Tour Available! $800 / Group

TOFINO HOT SPRINGS

• 6 Hour Tour
• Departs at 11 AM
• Private Tour Available! $2500 / Group

Whale Watching Tofino

• Fishing License (Fishing licenses- required for all sport fishing prior to arrival. Can be acquired  online , also at Method Marine in Tofino).
• Motion sickness medication – options available locally at Tofino Pharmacy.
• Warm clothes and water proof footwear. Both our vessels provide heated enclosed cabins for your comfort, but we are in unpredictable west coast weather.
• Any beverages or snacks of your choice, you can bring. Or pre order in advance with us.

30 days emailed written notice required for a full refund. Less than 7 days notice or no notice at all, full balance will be due and payable on the booked charter date. Unfortunately, we cannot offer refunds for motion sickness or choosing to come back to the dock early. We strongly recommend taking the necessary precautions to combat motion sickness before departing. If you do get seasick while we’re out there, we can always move to the inshore fishing grounds to finish your trip.

While tipping is not required, we aim to provide the experience of a lifetime, if you feel you’ve had an above par trip- the general rate is 10-20%.

40 Fourth St, Tofino, BC V0R 2Z0 at the 4th street dock!

Yes both our units are pet friendly, strata rules only allow one small to medium sized dogs.

• All top of the line equipment, lifejackets, safety PFDs and bait included.
• We will pre-order your lunch from savoury pies ( menu option to come) with prior notice and have it on the boat for you.
• Setting of crab and prawn traps.
• Cooler, water and ice for fish. Transport Canada Vessel Approved.
• Coffee, hot chocolate, tea and waters will be provided on boats.
• Any beverages or snacks otherwise you can bring with or order in advance with us.
• Reservations for restaurants or seaplane and helicopter tours we also provide. (restaurants book quickly and its recommended to reserve at least 1 month in advance).

The guides will filet and clean your fish before dropping you off. You can then discuss further options with your guide on packaging and shipping.

Fishing License (Fishing licenses- required for all sport fishing prior to arrival. Can be acquired  online , also at Method Marine in Tofino)

Tofino Whale Watching Tours

Whale-watching tours are one of the most popular activities in Tofino, BC. Visitors love to witness the magnificent whales in their natural habitat!

Book with Lunar Fishing Charters and Tours for the experience of a lifetime.

Lunar cove inn

Enjoy a luxury experience.

Explore Tofino by day, admire its oceanside views by night. Combine your fishing charter or tours with a stay at our luxury waterfront resort guests enjoy all benefits of a private resort.

• Reservation Policies

BEFORE YOU GO!

GET 15% OFF ANY TOUR WITH THE DISCOUNT CODE:

* VALID UNTIL MAY 1, 2023

ALL TOFINO TOURS

Eco and cultural adventure tofino tours.

Join us for an exciting variety of excursions within the Ahousaht haḥuułii territorial lands, waters and culture including tours to Hot Springs Cove, Whale Watching, and Bear Watching.

Ahous Tofino Tours and Excursions

• Our Signature Experience
• User Ages 2+
• Hour Glass 5.5 Hours

Tofino Hot Springs Eco-Tour

Join Ahous Adventures for a memorable eco-tour to the natural hot springs on Vancouver Island at Hot Springs Cove. You’ll experience the power of geothermal energy in the midst of pristine, temperate rainforest alongside the Pacific Ocean. Book your tour online today!

• User All ages
• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Tofino Whale Watching

The west coast of Vancouver Island is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Join our experienced and knowledgeable crew while we explore the Pacific Ocean waters to find gray whales, humpback whales and occasionally transient orcas. Book your whale watching in Tofino online today!

• Hour Glass 2.5 Hours

Tofino Bear Watching

Observe black bears in their natural habitat as you journey through the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound, a pristine wilderness that has been home to the Nuu-chah-nulth Nations for thousands of years. Book your black bear tour online today!

Book with us today!   1.250.725-4222

Book with us today  , welcome to tofino sea kayaking, guiding values, tofino sea kayaking is dedicated to the protection of clayoquot sound as a unique wilderness area and quality paddling destination. our hope is that everyone gains a greater sense of well-being and appreciation for the natural environment by connecting to the area through kayaking., guiding purpose, we are the pioneer kayaking centre for west coast paddlers and travellers interested in exploring the area by kayak. we see ourselves as outdoor educators helping people understand and learn about the value of nature in their lives. we promote sustainable travel by kayak..

Tofino Sea Kayaking honours the traditional territories of the Hesquit, Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations.  We work in cooperation and respect of their traditional unceded title of this land.  For us being part of the waters and lands of what is now called Clayoquot Sound means understanding the significance of thier knowledge, connection, historical and present day use of this place.

Our Featured Kayak Tours

Harbour islands.

2.5 hours | $75*   Experience why kayaking is such a wonderful way to enjoy the scenery, explore the ecology and learn about the cultural history of the area. The Tofino's harbour has many stunning rain forest islands that offer exceptional paddling along the...

Meares Island Trees & Shores

4.5 hours |$135*  Experience a unique opportunity to explore the awe-inspiring old-growth forest of Meares Island. Paddle your way along the islands shorelines to the massive cedars that stretch hundreds of feet into the air where you land for a walk through the wild...

Hidden Places

6 hours |$180*  Discover some of the lesser traveled routes and inlets of Clayoquot Sound.  On this day tour we explore the inlet of formed by the mountains of the Iconic Meares Island where we explore the ecosystems the eel grass mudflats fed by the nourishing waters...

West Coaster

4hr |$120*  Venture out to the rugged coastlines, open vistas (next stop Japan) and lush shorelines of the coast.  Enjoy paddling along islands and crossing channels that give you the experience of the dynamic, vast and diverse paddling the area offers. No experience...

Check out our Instagram Photos

Tofinoseakayaking.

Find us on Facebook

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on Linked In Share by Email

Whale Watching & Wildlife Tours

BEAR WATCHING

Tofino bear watching tour, tofino offers the best coastline for viewing black bears in their natural habitat our bear watching tours cruise through the protected and calm inlets of clayoquot sound to view wildlife and the scenic views..

Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with our Bear Watching Tours, promising an unforgettable glimpse into the world of black bears within their natural habitat. Witness these majestic creatures as they emerge from the rainforest and venture down to the beach, all from the comfort of our boat. Tofino's lush environment provides ample sustenance for black bears, from berries to crabs and fish, enriching their foraging experience.

During this immersive two and a half hour excursion, encounter an array of wildlife, including bald eagles, harbour seals, porpoises, blue herons, and more. Our knowledgeable guides are adept at deciphering bear behavior, emphasizing the importance of respecting their space and refraining from disrupting their natural activities.

Bear Watching in Tofino is a cherished pursuit among nature enthusiasts and visitors alike, offering not only wildlife sightings but also scenic vistas, conservation insights, and enduring memories. Family-friendly and set against the backdrop of calm, protected waters, our Bear Watching Tour promises a serene and captivating experience for all.

As black bears awaken from hibernation in April, our tours run until early October, coinciding with their migration to rivers in search of salmon. Choose between our Covered Cabin Cruiser Boats featuring back viewing decks or the Open Deck Boston Whaler Boats, both offering optimal vantage points for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

BEAR WATCHING - OPEN BOAT

Departure times:.

All tours are posted on our Booking Page online or view our calendar below.

BEAR WATCHING TOUR RATES:

Adult: $159 Senior (65+) & Youth (13-18): $149 Children (2-12): $129 Private (up to 12 guests): $1,600

BOAT: 30 Foot Open Deck Boat

Tour duration: 2.5 hours.

Open Boston Whaler Boat, seats 12 passengers.

All guests will wear a Mustang Floater Suit.

Check-in time for the tour is 30 minutes before departure time.

Departure times vary depending on low tides & daylight.

Prices displayed do not include taxes & fees.

This boat does not allow infants.

BEAR WATCHING - CABIN CRUISER BOAT

BOAT: 30 ft Cabin Cruiser Boat with open back deck

Cabin Cruiser Boat with open back deck, seats 12 passengers.

One free infant per tour. First come, first served. All infants under 9 months need to be in a front carrier.

Embark on an unforgettable journey during the 2024 bear watching season in Tofino! Dive into the serene inlets and pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound aboard our family-friendly cruiser for an enchanting bear watching tour. Seeking more excitement book the open boat bear watching adventure, or inquire about our private charters catering to up to 12 guests. Book your experience now through the calendar below!

FIND YOUR DATE AND BOOK

PREPARE FOR YOUR BEAR WATCHING TOUR

No food or beverages (other than water) is allowed on the boat during the Bear Watching Tour.

Guests are advised not to wear strong smelling deodorants, cologne or perfumes on the tour.

Noise and movement must be kept to a minimum aboard the vessels to not disturb the black bears.

Smoking or vaping is not permitted on the boat or in our safety gear at any time.

WHAT TO BRING:

Dress warmly in layers for the open boat (long sleeves, pants, fleece or sweater)

Rain gear (if it is raining)

Enclosed shoes (sandals not recommended)

Winter hat and gloves (early Spring / late Fall)

Drinking water

Sunglasses / sunscreen

Your sense of adventure!

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

Full Mustang Floater Suits (XS to XXXL) for your safety and protection from ocean spray & cool air.

WHAT WILL WE SEE ON THE BEAR TOUR:

Black Bears! Plus Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles, Great Blue Heron and occasionally we see Coastal Grey Wolves and Killer Whales.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Check in for your tour 30 minutes before departure time.

Make sure you read & understand our booking policies and waiver terms before processing your reservation.

Read our cancellation policy and note we have a 48 hour policy to cancel.

These trips may not be suitable for people who are pregnant or with serious back or neck problems - please let us know at time of booking of any such conditions.

Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in. Participants must be 19 years of age or require a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

An eco wildlife conservation fee of $3 will be added to each fare in support of maintaining the ecosystem in Clayoquot Sound.  

Multi-tour discounts, $15 off second and additional tours , contact us to book your tours so you receive the discount. 

Prices are subject to change.

Parking is available on our property but if the lot is full here is some  parking information.

Our boats do not have washrooms on board.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What types of bears can we see.

We see black bears on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

How long is the Tofino Bear Watching Tour?

The Bear Watching Tours are 2.5 hours.

When is the best time of day for black bear sightings?

From April to October we see Black Bears on the low tide when they come down to the shoreline to forage on crabs and fish.

How close do we get to the black bears?

We are respectful of the black bears space and the fact that they are feeding.

When is the best time of year to view black bears?

We offer bear watching tours from April to October.

What type of boats do we use?

Our open air 12 passenger Boston Whaler vessels are excellent for viewing and photographing wildlife. With twin high horsepower engines you are ensured a safe and exhilarating ride through the waters off Tofino. The driver is located in the centre of the boat to ensure they can communicate with guests.

Our 12 passenger Cabin Cruiser Boat is a comfortable and heated ride with an open back deck to view wildlife from. Perfect for days when you want to stay dry.

Where do we check-in before the tour?

Please check-in at our office ready to go at 411 Campbell Street, 30 minutes before your departure time.

Do you see bears on every Bear Watching Tour?

The Whale Centre has a 96% success rate of seeing black bears on tours. If you do not see a bear we will provide you a rain check and get you out on a tour to see bears in the future.

Is there a washroom on board?

No. We remind you to use our office washroom before we get you into your floatation suit. We suggest not drinking a big coffee or drink right before your tour.

Do you want your own Private Bear Watching Tour? Learn more about our private tour options.

Give the gift of a Tofino adventure! Gift certificates for all of our tours can be purchased online .

How to book your tour:

BOOK ONLINE

CALL OUR OFFICE 1-888-474-2288

IN PERSON, VISIT OUR OFFICE AT 411 CAMPBELL STREET, TOFINO

TOURS | PRIVACY POLICY | GIFT CERTIFICATES | BOOKING POLICY

Contact | faq’s | cancellation policy, the whale centre 411 campbell street, tofino, british columbia v0r 2z0.

Toll Free:  1-888-474-2288

Local: 250-725-2132

Copyright @The Whale Centre 2024

All Rights Reserved

Sign up with your email address to receive news, promotions and wildlife reports.

We respect your privacy.