When is the best time of year for whale watching in Vancouver?

May through October offers the highest success rate, especially for humpbacks and orcas.

How close do the boats get to the whales?

Operators follow government-regulated distances to keep wildlife safe, but the animals often choose to approach the boats on their own.

Will I definitely see whales?

Whale sightings are not guaranteed, as these are wild animals; however, success rates are typically above 95% during peak season. All tours offer a free return-trip guarantee if no whales are spotted.

Does this experience support marine conservation?

Yes. Operators follow responsible wildlife-viewing guidelines and often contribute to research and rescue initiatives in the Salish Sea.

How far in advance should I book my whale watching tour?

Tours frequently sell out in peak season (May–September), especially morning departures. Booking at least 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended to secure your preferred date and time.

What types of whale watching tours can I choose from?

Choose from daytime tours and seasonal sunset cruises. Both include guided wildlife viewing with certified naturalists; the main difference is lighting, ambiance, and potential marine activity patterns.

Vancouver Whale Watching Tours | Daytime & Sunset Cruises

What to expect

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Boarding at Granville Island

Vancouver tours depart from Granville Island, located close to downtown and easy to reach by water taxi or local transit. After check-in, the crew provides a short safety briefing before you board the 95-passenger custom-built catamaran.

Cruising to whale habitat

The captain sets course toward the Salish Sea or Howe Sound, following recent reports from wildlife networks to reach active whale feeding and travel areas.

Whale & wildlife viewing

When whales are located, boat speed is reduced for clear viewing and photography. Orcas and humpbacks are most often seen; gray whales and minke whales appear occasionally. Sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins, and bald eagles are frequently spotted throughout the tour. Whale Sighting Guarantee applies.*

*If no whales are seen on your tour, you’ll receive a free return trip to try again, subject to availability and standard booking terms.

Three viewing elevations & indoor comfort

Move between open decks, rail-level vantage points, and a 22-foot elevated platform for wider scanning. Inside, stay warm in a heated cabin with 10-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, plus access to washrooms and hot drinks.

Canada-certified naturalists

3–4 trained marine naturalists support spotting, share species identification tips, and explain ongoing conservation and research efforts in the Salish Sea.

Return to the harbour

The boat heads back to Granville Island once wildlife viewing time is complete. Crew members recap sightings and answer questions before docking. Access professionally captured images after your return with the photo package included with your tour.

Things to know before booking your Vancouver whale watching tours

Know your options: Daytime whale watching tours run from March–November, with a scheduled departure at noon; sunset whale watching tours run from June–August with a scheduled departure at 4:30pm.
Guarantee applies: Both tours offer a ~95% sighting success rate. In the unlikely event that you don’t see any, the Year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee applies to both tours, which will get you on another tour, at your convenience and free of charge.
All tours take place in a custom-built, 95-passenger catamaran, designed to be environmentally friendly, comfortable, and fast.
The boats used on this tour are one-of-a-kind, built with a 22-foot elevated platform and 10-foot floor-to-ceiling glass windows for unobstructed views.
The boat is not wheelchair accessible; if you require assistance, inform the operators in advance.
All tours are led by a team of 3–4 Canada-certified marine naturalists who’ll educate you about marine life under the waves.

Highlights from your tour

Certified marine naturalists

A group of professional, Canada-certified marine naturalists accompanies every tour. They help spot whales and other wildlife, explain behavior and habitat, and share current conservation efforts in the Salish Sea to ensure the experience is informative as well as memorable.

Unobstructed viewing

A 22-foot elevated platform gives you a higher vantage point to spot whales at a distance. Inside, floor-to-ceiling windows ensure clear visibility and continuous viewing without needing to step outdoors.

Heated cabin and beverages

Stay warm, dry, and comfortable in the heated indoor cabin with spacious seating. Enjoy complimentary hot drinks during the trip, especially useful on early-season tours or days with changing marine conditions.

Scenic coastlines and diverse wildlife

Cruise through the Salish Sea with views of Vancouver’s skyline, coastal mountains, and nearby islands. Wildlife sightings commonly include orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, harbor seals, dolphins, and bald eagles—every tour varies based on that day’s wildlife activity.

Wildlife you’ll spot on your Vancouver whale watching tour

Orcas swimming in the ocean during a Vancouver whale watching tour.

Orca whales

Black-and-white killer whales traveling in family groups, often seen hunting or traveling through the Salish Sea.

Humpback whale breaching in Vancouver ocean during whale watching tour.

Sea lion resting on a rock during Vancouver sunset whale watching tour.

Harbor seals resting on rocky outcrop in Vancouver ocean.

Bald eagle soaring over ocean during Victoria whale watching tour.

Plan your visit

Woman using binoculars on Vancouver whale watching tour.

Daytime whale watching tours depart at noon; duration of 3–5 hours.
Sunset whale watching tours depart at 4:30pm; duration of 3–5 hours.
Tours run daily from November to March, unless extreme weather and marine conditions prevail.

Best time to visit:

Peak season for whale watching is from May to September, although tours start as early as March and go on till November.

Address: Granville Island Adventure Centre located at 1666 Duranleau St, Vancouver, BC V6H 3S4, Canada | Find on Maps

Getting here:

Water taxi: A 2 kilometer walk from Downtown, and catch a ferry to cross the False Creek to your departure point.

Modern washroom facilities with sinks and mirrors in a tourist attraction.

At departure point:

Guest check-in area.
Nearby restrooms, cafes, food market, and seating at Granville Island.
Shops for last-minute layers or waterproof gear.

Onboard:

Heated indoor cabin
Floor-to-ceiling windows
22 feet elevated viewing platform
Airline-style washrooms
Complimentary hot drinks—tea, coffee, and hot chocolate

Family enjoying the view from the top deck of a boat in Victoria, B.C.

Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for a smooth check-in.
Carry a government-issued ID, if requested.
Dress appropriately for marine weather; temperatures are lower on open water.
Follow crew instructions for safe footing and movement between decks
Flash photography is restricted near wildlife.
Avoid feeding or attracting wildlife.
Smoking and vaping are prohibited on the boats.
Photos from the complimentary photo package will be emailed to you shortly after the tour.

Your checklist for a smooth whale watching tour

Arrive early: Plan to reach Granville Island 30–45 minutes ahead. Finding the dock and parking can take time, especially on weekends. Early arrival means a calm check-in and better boarding choices.
Dress well, carry extras: It’s always cooler on open water. Wear layers, closed shoes, and bring a windproof jacket. Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a camera strap to protect gear from sudden gusts.
Follow guidelines: Listen for instructions when moving between viewing areas. Keep your hands free on stairs and railings. Avoid loud noise or flash photography that could disturb wildlife during viewing stops.
Stay curious: Ask the naturalist questions—they help you spot behaviors you might miss. Check the horizon frequently; whales can appear suddenly in different directions during the trip.
Capture moments: Keep your camera ready, but also enjoy the view directly. Use short bursts for breaching whales, and back up photos with the free post-tour photo package.

Sights along the way

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Salish Sea

A marine ecosystem shared by British Columbia and Washington, known for diverse whale populations and frequent orca and humpback activity.

Strait of Georgia

Protected inland waters between Vancouver and Vancouver Island, where humpbacks forage and sea lions cluster near rich feeding grounds.

Howe Sound

A scenic fjord north of Vancouver, backed by steep mountains, with dolphins, seals, and occasional transient orca sightings.

English Bay

Open waters beside downtown Vancouver, offering skyline views as the boat heads toward active whale areas farther offshore.

Gulf Islands

Sheltered island channels east of Vancouver Island, often part of the route when whale sightings occur near kelp beds and rocky haul-outs.

Juan de Fuca Strait

A major migration corridor near the US–Canada border, where whales frequently travel between the open ocean and inland waters.

Note: Route varies daily based on whale locations. Your captain selects the most active areas to maximize sightings.

Frequently asked questions about Vancouver whale watching tours

You may spot orcas (killer whales), humpbacks, gray whales, and minke whales, depending on the season and marine activity.

Whale watching adventures off the coast of the Salish Sea on a custom-built catamaran.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour led by certified marine naturalists, on a purpose-built catamaran. Enjoy a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee, a photo package, and complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Why choose this: The custom-built catamaran used on this tour is the only one of its kind on the British Columbia coast and offers two unique vantage points for whale watching—outside, from the 22-foot-tall elevated platform, and inside, through the 10-foot-tall floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise
Panoramic views from a 22-foot platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows
Certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Free photo package
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.
Carry reusable mugs and water bottles for the complimentary beverages onboard.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Light snacks are available for purchase on board; meals are not included.
Parking at the departure location (Granville Island) is not included and fills up quickly; allow extra time for parking.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Onboard airline-style washrooms are available for guest use.
Reservations are recommended as tours often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

The experience is not wheelchair-accessible.
Reach the departure point 30 minutes before your tour begins.
Carry a windbreaker and sweater with you and wear long pants and closed shoes for the cruise because it can get quite chilly.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a fitted hat with you for the experience.
Bring binoculars to enhance your experience and a camera for some great photographs.
If there’s no sighting, you can redeem it for another tour under the Whale Sighting Guarantee (additional taxes/fees apply).

Inclusions #

Tickets to a guided whale-watching and marine wildlife tour with 3 to 4 certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
Free photo package (group photos and wildlife photos)
Whale Sighting Guarantee (redeemable for a free tour in case of no sighting)

Exclusions #

Food (light snacks are available on the catamaran at an additional cost)
Transport to and from the departure point

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points. You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket. Hop-on Hop-off bus tour - Red route

First bus: 8:45am from stop #1 (Canada Place / Vancouver Convention Centre)
Last bus: 4:45pm from stop #1 (Canada Place / Vancouver Convention Centre)
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Popular stops: Vancouver Aquarium, Granville Island, Stanley Park

Inclusions #

24/48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
Access to Red route
2-self guided walking tours
Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean & Mandarin
Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Exclusions #

Entry to attractions

What to bring

Carry your earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.

What's not allowed

Remember that luggage is not permitted on the bus. Pack wisely!
Your pets cannot join this tour.

Accessibility

The buses are accessible for wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
Motorized wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted on board the bus.
Your service dogs are allowed on the buses.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Feel the ocean spray on your face as you cut through the waters on a high-speed, open-air boat.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour in a small group (12 people), led by certified naturalists, in an open-air, rigid-hull inflatable zodiac. Includes a Mustang Survival Suit (hats & gloves included) and a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee (return for a free tour if no whales are spotted).
Why choose this: To enjoy one of the world's best whale watching destinations from very close, while seated in a high-speed, open-air boat.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise in an open-air boat
All-weather exposure suits, hates, and gloves
Certified marine naturalists
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.

What's not allowed

Children under 4feet (120cm) in height or 50lb (23kg) in weight (typically under 7 years old) are not permitted on this tour.
The tour is not suitable for anyone with serious medical conditions, including back or neck injuries, recent surgery, or pregnancy.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
There are no onboard washroom facilities; use public restrooms before departure.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in; guests under 19 require a parent or guardian signature.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Reservations are recommended as tour-size is limited to 12 passengers and often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Whale watching adventures in prime whale habitats, off the coast of Victoria, in a custom-covered boat.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, led by certified marine naturalists, on a purpose-built catamaran. Enjoy a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee, a photo package, and complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Why choose this: Experience one of the world's best whale watching destinations, either standing on a 22-foot elevated platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows, led by expert guides.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise
Panoramic views from a 22-foot platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows
Certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Free photo package
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.
Carry reusable mugs and water bottles for the complimentary beverages onboard.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Light snacks are available for purchase on board; meals are not included.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Onboard airline-style washrooms are available for guest use.
Reservations are recommended as tours often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Whale watching adventures off the coast of the Salish Sea on a custom-built catamaran.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour led by certified marine naturalists, on a purpose-built catamaran. Enjoy a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee, a photo package, and complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Why choose this: The custom-built catamaran used on this tour is the only one of its kind on the British Columbia coast and offers two unique vantage points for whale watching—outside, from the 22-foot-tall elevated platform, and inside, through the 10-foot-tall floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise
Panoramic views from a 22-foot platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows
Certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Free photo package
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.
Carry reusable mugs and water bottles for the complimentary beverages onboard.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Light snacks are available for purchase on board; meals are not included.
Parking at the departure location (Granville Island) is not included and fills up quickly; allow extra time for parking.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Onboard airline-style washrooms are available for guest use.
Reservations are recommended as tours often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

The experience is not wheelchair-accessible.
Reach the departure point 30 minutes before your tour begins.
Carry a windbreaker and sweater with you and wear long pants and closed shoes for the cruise because it can get quite chilly.
Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a fitted hat with you for the experience.
Bring binoculars to enhance your experience and a camera for some great photographs.
If there’s no sighting, you can redeem it for another tour under the Whale Sighting Guarantee (additional taxes/fees apply).

Inclusions #

Tickets to a guided whale-watching and marine wildlife tour with 3 to 4 certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate
Free photo package (group photos and wildlife photos)
Whale Sighting Guarantee (redeemable for a free tour in case of no sighting)

Exclusions #

Food (light snacks are available on the catamaran at an additional cost)
Transport to and from the departure point

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Please click here for the detailed route map and boarding points. You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket. Hop-on Hop-off bus tour - Red route

First bus: 8:45am from stop #1 (Canada Place / Vancouver Convention Centre)
Last bus: 4:45pm from stop #1 (Canada Place / Vancouver Convention Centre)
Frequency: Every 30 minutes
Popular stops: Vancouver Aquarium, Granville Island, Stanley Park

Inclusions #

24/48-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
Access to Red route
2-self guided walking tours
Audio guide in English, French, Spanish, German, Japanese, Korean & Mandarin
Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Exclusions #

Entry to attractions

What to bring

Carry your earphones for an immersive audio guide experience.

What's not allowed

Remember that luggage is not permitted on the bus. Pack wisely!
Your pets cannot join this tour.

Accessibility

The buses are accessible for wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
Motorized wheelchairs and scooters are not permitted on board the bus.
Your service dogs are allowed on the buses.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Feel the ocean spray on your face as you cut through the waters on a high-speed, open-air boat.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour in a small group (12 people), led by certified naturalists, in an open-air, rigid-hull inflatable zodiac. Includes a Mustang Survival Suit (hats & gloves included) and a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee (return for a free tour if no whales are spotted).
Why choose this: To enjoy one of the world's best whale watching destinations from very close, while seated in a high-speed, open-air boat.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise in an open-air boat
All-weather exposure suits, hates, and gloves
Certified marine naturalists
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.

What's not allowed

Children under 4feet (120cm) in height or 50lb (23kg) in weight (typically under 7 years old) are not permitted on this tour.
The tour is not suitable for anyone with serious medical conditions, including back or neck injuries, recent surgery, or pregnancy.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
There are no onboard washroom facilities; use public restrooms before departure.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in; guests under 19 require a parent or guardian signature.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Reservations are recommended as tour-size is limited to 12 passengers and often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Whale watching adventures in prime whale habitats, off the coast of Victoria, in a custom-covered boat.

Everything you get: A guided whale watching tour through the Strait of Juan de Fuca, led by certified marine naturalists, on a purpose-built catamaran. Enjoy a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee, a photo package, and complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
Why choose this: Experience one of the world's best whale watching destinations, either standing on a 22-foot elevated platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows, led by expert guides.

Inclusions #

3-hour whale watching cruise
Panoramic views from a 22-foot platform or through floor-to-ceiling windows
Certified marine naturalists
Complimentary tea, coffee, or hot chocolate
Free photo package
Whale Sighting Guarantee (no expiry date; redeemable year-round)

Exclusions #

Food & beverages (light snacks are available for purchase)

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
Carry a windbreaker jacket, warm sweater, long pants, and closed-toe shoes; the weather is cold out there.
Pack sunglasses, sunscreen, a tight-fitting hat, binoculars, and a camera.
Carry reusable mugs and water bottles for the complimentary beverages onboard.

Accessibility

This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
If you require assistance with boarding or have limited mobility, contact the operator in advance to discuss your needs.

Additional information

Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in.
Tours operate rain or shine, but may be cancelled in extreme weather for safety.
Light snacks are available for purchase on board; meals are not included.
Transfers to and from the departure point are not included.
If you're prone to sea sickness, carry a pharmacy-bought, non-drowsy Gravol.
The tour is free for infants aged 2 and below.
The tour includes a year-round Whale Sighting Guarantee: if no whales are seen, you can join another tour free of charge.
Onboard airline-style washrooms are available for guest use.
Reservations are recommended as tours often sell out.

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Sightseeing Cruises

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