Victoria Whale Watching Tours | Closed & Open-Air Boat Options

What to expect

1/5

Boarding in Victoria’s Inner Harbour

Check in at 812 Wharf Street, steps from downtown hotels and the waterfront promenade. Your crew outfits Zodiac guests with exposure suits or welcomes catamaran passengers aboard the custom-built, heated-cabin cruise, before safety orientation and departure.

Heading into the Salish Sea

Your captain navigates the Strait of Juan de Fuca, scanning active feeding grounds known for orcas, humpbacks, and other marine mammals. The route adapts to wildlife reports for the best viewing opportunities each day.

Wildlife spotting & interpretation

Certified marine naturalists locate whales, explain behaviours, and share conservation insights. Expect orcas, humpbacks, sea lions, seals, and bald eagles , with a 95%+ sighting rate backed by a Whale Sighting Guarantee*.

*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.

Onboard experience—pick your adventure

Depending on the tour type you opt for, you'll either get heated cabins and a 22-foot tall viewing platform on the custom-built boat; or enjoy wind in your hair as the Zodiac speeds at 55 km/h (35 m/h).

Return to the harbour

After 3–3.5 hours on the water, you’ll cruise back past harbour planes and iconic waterfront sights — usually with a camera full of new favourites.

Things to know before booking your Victoria whale watching tours

Know your boat type: Two types of boats are used on Victoria whale-watching tours—custom-built catamarans and open-air Zodiacs. The catamarans have a 22-foot elevated platform and 10-foot floor-to-ceiling glass windows for unobstructed views; the Zodiac is a rigid inflatable boat, open to the sky.
Capacity: The catamaran can hold up to 95 passengers; the Zodiac is an intimate setting with a 12-passenger capacity.
Schedule: The catamaran tours run daily from March–November, at 12:30pm only. The open-air Zodiacs run year-round, with two departures daily—10am and 1pm.
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.
Guided tours: The catamaran tour is led by a team of 3-4 Transport Canada-certified marine naturalists; the Zodiac tour is led by a Transport Canada-certified marine naturalist/skipper.
Neither boat is wheelchair accessible; if you require assistance, inform the operators in advance.
Rules of the Zodiac: tour is unsuitable for anyone with a history of serious medical conditions, including but not limited to back or neck injuries, recent surgery, and/or current or suspected pregnancy. All passengers are required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in.
Restrictions on the Zodiac: Passengers under 4ft/120cm in height or 50lb/23kg in weight cannot join (typically applies to children under 7 years of age.
All-weather exposure suits are provided on the open-air boat tour; gloves and hats are available upon request.

Victoria whale watching tour boats explained

Feature	Catamaran boats	Open-air Zodiac boats
Experience	Comfortable, smooth ride with indoor seating	High-speed, open-air thrill on the water
Capacity	95 passengers	12 passengers
Viewpoints	22-ft elevated platform and floor-to-ceiling windows	Low-to-waterline views and quick wildlife approach (while respecting distance rules)
Climate protection	Heated cabin keeps you warm and dry in any weather	All-weather exposure suits provided; expect sea spray and wind
Facilities onboard	Washroom, complimentary hot drinks, snacks for purchase, and a free photo package	No washroom or services on board
Movement	Stable, smooth navigation	Up to 55 km/h for a fast, dynamic ride
Best for	Families, multi-generational groups, and photographers—anyone wanting comfort	Adventure seekers, repeat whale watchers, and on-the-move travelers

Tour highlights

Certified marine naturalists

Every tour is led by Canada-certified marine naturalists who help spot whales, explain behaviors, and share real-time conservation insights about the Salish Sea. You’ll learn why this region is one of the world’s most important ecosystems for orcas and humpbacks.

Unobstructed viewing

Whether you’re on a heated catamaran or an open-air zodiac, you’ll enjoy clear sightlines for wildlife watching. Elevated outdoor decks and close-to-the-water positions allow you to easily follow whale movement without obstruction.

Heated cabin & comfort options

Victoria offers both covered, climate-controlled vessels and thrilling open-air boats. Choose your comfort style—warm indoor seating with complimentary beverages, or the fresh-air excitement of a zodiac with full gear provided.

Scenic coastlines & diverse wildlife

Tours explore the sheltered waters around the Gulf Islands and Juan de Fuca Strait, home to orcas, humpbacks, porpoises, sea lions, harbor seals, and bald eagles. Wildlife and routes vary by day, meaning every trip is unique.

Closer whale habitat proximity

Victoria sits right next to the Salish Sea’s key feeding grounds, allowing quicker access to whales and more time spent alongside them.

Downtown Inner Harbor departures

All tours leave from Victoria’s iconic Inner Harbour, an easy walk from shops, hotels, Parliament Buildings, and the waterfront. A smooth and scenic start without long transfers.

Calmer, protected waters

The local channels are more sheltered than open Pacific routes, resulting in smoother cruising and more stable viewing conditions.

Wildlife you’ll spot on your Victoria whale watching tour

Orca surfacing in ocean waters, showcasing its dorsal fin and sleek body.

Orcas (Killer whales)

Social, intelligent apex predators; often spotted hunting in family groups through Victoria’s nearby waters year-round.

Humpback whale breaching ocean surface with mountains in the background.

Porpoise leaping from the water during Reykjavik Whale Watching Tour.

Race Rocks Lighthouse with sea lions on rocky shore, British Columbia.

Bald eagle perched on a tree branch in a forest setting.

Know before you go

Four people in red jackets enjoying a Whale Watching Tour on a boat.

Catamaran boat tours depart at 12:30pm; duration of 3–4 hours.
Zodiac boat tours depart at 10am and 1:30pm; duration of 3–3.5 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.
Expect good sightings from March to November thanks to migrating humpbacks and local orca populations.

Tourists boarding a bus in Rome, Italy for a guided city tour.

Address: Downtown Victoria Adventure Centre, located at 812 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada | Find on Maps

Getting here:

Walkable from most downtown Victoria stays.
If you’re driving, paid parking lots are available along Belleville St and Government St.

Takeaway coffee being handed over at Café Kitsuné Palais Royal.

At the departure point

Nearby cafes, restaurants, and shops for snacks or extra layers.
Guest check-in area on the lower causeway at 812 Wharf St.
Nearby public restrooms and harbor seating while you wait to board.

Onboard catamaran boats

Heated indoor cabin with spacious seating.
Floor-to-ceiling windows for continuous viewing.
22-foot elevated platform for long-distance spotting.
Airline-style washrooms.
Complimentary hot drinks — tea, coffee, hot chocolate.
Free photo package included on every trip.

Onboard Zodiac boats

High-speed open-air adventure seating.
All-weather exposure suit provided.
Hats and gloves included for comfort.

Group on a boat during a whale watching tour in open sea.

and regulations

Arrive 30–45 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding.
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 (catamaran tours).
Keep personal belongings secured; loose items can be blown overboard.
Children must meet the minimum age requirements for Zodiac tours.

Your checklist for a smooth whale watching tour

Arrive early: Plan to reach the Inner Harbour 30–45 minutes before departure. The lower causeway can be busy with tours and floatplanes, so allow time to check in and board without rushing.
Dress well, carry extras: Expect cooler temperatures on open water. Wear layers and closed-toe shoes. Bring a windproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a secure strap for your phone or camera.
Follow guidelines: Listen to your crew when moving between seating areas or standing during sightings. On Zodiacs, stay seated during speed runs and secure loose items at all times.
Stay curious: Ask the naturalists questions—spotting behaviors like tail slaps or feeding dives is easier when you know what to look for. Scan all directions; wildlife appears unpredictably.
Capture moments: Keep your camera ready for sudden action, but take time to look up and enjoy the experience too. Catamaran guests receive a free photo package after the trip.

Sights along the way

1/4

Strait of Juan de Fuca

The Southern Gulf Islands are a group of islands located between Vancouver Island and the mainland, known for their rich and diverse marine ecosystems. This is where you will get to see porpoises, sea lions, otters, and other marine animals in the wild.

Gulf Islands

Sheltered channels with kelp forests and rocky shores, home to sea lions, harbor seals, and porpoises; frequently included when whales are active nearby.

Salish Sea

One of the world’s richest marine ecosystems, known for year-round orca activity, humpback feeding grounds, seabirds, and stunning coastal landscapes surrounding Vancouver Island.

Victoria's Inner Harbor

A scenic departure point lined with heritage architecture, floatplanes, and Parliament buildings—your whale watching adventure begins steps from downtown.

Note: Routes change daily based on wildlife reports. Captains head where whales are active to maximize sightings.

Frequently asked questions about Victoria whale watching tours

What whales can I see on Victoria whale-watching tours?

The most commonly sighted whales are Bigg’s (transient) orcas and humpback whales. Gray whales are spotted occasionally in spring, and minke whales appear year-round but less frequently.

How long do Victoria whale-watching tours last?

Most tours are 3–4 hours, including travel time to prime whale-sighting zones like Haro Strait and Juan de Fuca Strait.

Do tours include guaranteed whale sightings?

Many companies offer a “whale sighting guarantee” — if you don’t see whales, you can return for a free future tour within a specified timeframe. Check the specific policy before booking.

What is the best time of year for whale watching in Victoria?

Peak season is May–October when humpbacks and orcas are most active near Vancouver Island. Winter tours run weather-permitting, with fewer opportunities but still possible sightings.

Are Victoria whale-watching tours suitable for kids or seniors?

Yes. Catamarans are ideal for family-friendly and accessible experiences. Zodiacs typically have age/height restrictions (often 6+ years, 4 ft+ / 120 cm+).

What should I wear or bring on the tour?

Dress in warm layers year-round. Waterproof jackets are provided on zodiacs. Sunglasses, sunscreen, a secure hat, and a camera/binoculars are recommended.

Does whale-watching support conservation?

Yes. Licensed operators follow strict viewing guidelines and contribute to marine research, sighting databases, and local conservation programs.

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.

Sunset whale-watching cruise along the Salish Sea with expert naturalists giving insights.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-5 hour cruise from a 22-ft viewing platform to witness multiple whale species and marine life. Certified naturalists share fascinating insights about the whales, animals, and birds you spot. Plus, receive a complimentary photo package with group shots and wildlife photos from your tour.
Why choose this: Take in scenic sunset views while learning about the whales and marine life along the Vancouver coast, with expert marine naturalists guiding you through the experience.

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

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).

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

See 12 sights with unlimited rides & explore hidden gems on foot; perfect for independent explorers!

Design your own Vancouver tour with a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off pass that lets you visit your favorite spots multiple times without rushing you!
Hop between 12 stops on the Red route that covers Vancouver's top highlights, with buses rolling up every 30 minutes, so you're never waiting around.
Two bonus walking tours through the AudioMe app let you wander into neighborhoods the bus can't reach while listening to entertaining historical tales.
Sit back on the open-top deck and pick from seven language options on your audio guide to hear stories about the city unfolding right before your eyes.
Pass by the Vancouver Aquarium's ocean habitats, the rainbow-crosswalk-lined Davie Village, and Granville Island's covered market brimming with vendors.

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

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

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.

Sunset whale-watching cruise along the Salish Sea with expert naturalists giving insights.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-5 hour cruise from a 22-ft viewing platform to witness multiple whale species and marine life. Certified naturalists share fascinating insights about the whales, animals, and birds you spot. Plus, receive a complimentary photo package with group shots and wildlife photos from your tour.
Why choose this: Take in scenic sunset views while learning about the whales and marine life along the Vancouver coast, with expert marine naturalists guiding you through the experience.

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

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).

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

See 12 sights with unlimited rides & explore hidden gems on foot; perfect for independent explorers!

Design your own Vancouver tour with a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off pass that lets you visit your favorite spots multiple times without rushing you!
Hop between 12 stops on the Red route that covers Vancouver's top highlights, with buses rolling up every 30 minutes, so you're never waiting around.
Two bonus walking tours through the AudioMe app let you wander into neighborhoods the bus can't reach while listening to entertaining historical tales.
Sit back on the open-top deck and pick from seven language options on your audio guide to hear stories about the city unfolding right before your eyes.
Pass by the Vancouver Aquarium's ocean habitats, the rainbow-crosswalk-lined Davie Village, and Granville Island's covered market brimming with vendors.

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

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

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.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Victoria Whale Watching Tour by Zodiac (Open-Air Boat)

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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Victoria Whale Watching Tours by Covered Boat

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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Vancouver Whale Watching Tours

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.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

3 hr.

Sightseeing Cruises

NEW

Vancouver Sunset Whale Watching Tour

Sunset whale-watching cruise along the Salish Sea with expert naturalists giving insights.

Everything you get: Enjoy a 3-5 hour cruise from a 22-ft viewing platform to witness multiple whale species and marine life. Certified naturalists share fascinating insights about the whales, animals, and birds you spot. Plus, receive a complimentary photo package with group shots and wildlife photos from your tour.
Why choose this: Take in scenic sunset views while learning about the whales and marine life along the Vancouver coast, with expert marine naturalists guiding you through the experience.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

4 hr.

Hop-on Hop-off Tours Vancouver

NaN

Big Bus: Vancouver Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

See 12 sights with unlimited rides & explore hidden gems on foot; perfect for independent explorers!

Design your own Vancouver tour with a 24/48-hour hop-on hop-off pass that lets you visit your favorite spots multiple times without rushing you!
Hop between 12 stops on the Red route that covers Vancouver's top highlights, with buses rolling up every 30 minutes, so you're never waiting around.
Two bonus walking tours through the AudioMe app let you wander into neighborhoods the bus can't reach while listening to entertaining historical tales.
Sit back on the open-top deck and pick from seven language options on your audio guide to hear stories about the city unfolding right before your eyes.
Pass by the Vancouver Aquarium's ocean habitats, the rainbow-crosswalk-lined Davie Village, and Granville Island's covered market brimming with vendors.

‌

Check availability

Free cancellation

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

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Flexible duration

Audio guide