Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
See why Campbell River is quickly becoming known as a whale watching hotspot on Vancouver Island. This is our most popular family-friendly tour, and takes place on our fun and stable zodiac vessels. We cruise throughout the Salish Sea and Desolation Sound in search of the biggest and most exciting marine mammals that call this region home. During our four hour tours we provide light snacks and refreshments. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for breaks at interesting and historical sites in this beautiful area. Tour departs from our Campbell River Marine Adventure Centre at the Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre.
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Private transportation
All Fees and Taxes
Cruiser Suits
Bottled water
Snacks
Tips
See why Campbell River is quickly becoming known as a whale watching hotspot on Vancouver Island. This is our most popular family-friendly tour, and takes place on our fun and stable zodiac vessels. We cruise throughout the Salish Sea and Desolation Sound in search of the biggest and most exciting marine mammals that call this region home. During our four hour tours we provide light snacks and refreshments. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for breaks at interesting and historical sites in this beautiful area. Tour departs from our Campbell River Marine Adventure Centre at the Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre.
8 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
885michaelb885,
Sep 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Whale Watching trip with Bill was amazing we saw Hump Backs, Seals and Orcas. Went round a few wonderful islands as well and Bill found a great spot for lunch. Highly recommended this company and trip it was a fantastic day. Sharon in the office was great and the email and verbal communication was first class leading up to the trip and on the day of the trip.






V4486OJrayc,
Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had great weather, saw some orcas and some humpback whales. Great Day! Elvis the captain was fantastic. Highly recommend!
travelss66,
Sep 24, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Jason our captain was informative, welcoming and all round a great guide! We saw so much on. our 7 hour trip and the lunch provided was good as well. A memorable trip! P.S. Don’t lose Jason


LooselyRooted,
Sep 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We left on our tour in the morning, it didn't take long to find our whales, sea lions! After a brief stop in beautiful Gorge Harbour, we located the Orcas hunting along the rocks against the shore, amazing. The trip was well planned out and the boat and pilot were top notch. This is our 4th trip with Big Animal Encounters and we have enjoyed every adventure. We will definately book again and look forward to taking the 8 hour next time. Thanks to Paul (our pilot) and Bill & Sharon for their excellent care and attention to safety, it was another great, safe, successful trip.
V3318BXguillaumet,
Jul 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Best whales watching experience ever! From booking to the end of the 4-hour cruise on a perfectly small zodiac. Jen, our captain/guide, is awesome. She managed to reroute the plan so we could see 9 humpback whales, 8 orcas, seals, sea lions, porpoises, 1 dolphin…. Great bonus, she speaks French ;) My wife, my sons, and I enjoyed this tour so much. This company and team are passionate. We strongly recommend them!
Y8330IPlucyr,
Jul 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We booked a private boat tour for a family birthday celebration, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. From start to finish, everything was absolutely perfect. Our captain, Jen, was outstanding – knowledgeable, professional, and experienced. She also brought such a fun and friendly energy to the day, making everyone feel welcome and relaxed. The scenery was breathtaking – we cruised through stunning landscapes and were lucky enough to spot all kinds of wildlife along the way. Whether we were learning interesting facts from Jen or just soaking in the peaceful beauty of the water, every moment was special. This was a day our family will remember forever. If you’re considering a boat tour, don’t hesitate – go with Jen. You won’t regret it!

ManimalChozenBreed,
Jun 26, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great adventure, were on a zodiac boat with seats, very comfortable. Saw whales,dolphins, seals, eagles and more. Great tour guide named Jen. It was well worth it.




randyfischer,
May 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
The trip we booked was excellent. Our captain Jason was fun experienced and had a great knowledge of the area and the wildlife that lives there. I highly recommend this adventure for everyone
Operated by Big Animal Encounters