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Whale Watching Vancouver
  
Vancouver Whale Watch provides passengers with the adventure of a lifetime through excellent customer service, first class vessels, the highest possible safety standards and added value from an on-the-water education of the west coast eco-system. We emphasize science and conservation while maintaining a fun and professional atmosphere.
Zodiacs
Our vessels are expedition style Zodiacs specifically designed for marine mammal viewing. They travel over the top of the water instead of pounding through it; this increases passenger comfort and safety and reduces the chance of seasickness. Our semi-covered vessels use water jets which are extremely safe for marine mammals. All three of our ocean going vessels are equipped with washrooms.
Experience
The first whale watching company to operate from the mainland. In 2008 we are celebrated 10 years of viewing wild mammals in their natural habitat.
Location
Steveston is a vibrant historic fishing village located 35 minutes from downtown Vancouver. Each trip begins in this prime marine environment allowing for immediate access to diverse wild life. Before or after the tour guests can enjoy the museums, shops and scenic areas, the famous fish & chips or an ice cream. All day free parking is available.
Naturalists
Professional Naturalists are on board each trip to enhance passengers knowledge and enjoyment. They have completed courses in Marine Emergency Training and First Aid.
Guarantee
We have a 90% sighting success rate, however should you not see a whale you can come again for free until you do – for life, no expiry.
Shuttle Service
Our “Orca Express” shuttle is a comfortable, air-conditioned 24 passenger bus offering round trip transportation for $15.00 per person. Pick up is from nine prominent downtown Vancouver locations.
Whale Watching Tours
Whale Watching - April 1 to October 31
Note: The Lightship 1 operates June 13 to September 6
Note: The Express operates May 1 to September 30
The Killer Whales come to this region to feed on the salmon that are returning to the Fraser River to spawn. The salmon start to migrate up river in May and continue into October. There are three pods (families) of Killer Whales that return to this area every year and they consist of approximately 80 whales. Killer Whales are matriarchal meaning that the eldest female leads the group.
All of our resident Killer whales can be identified by their dorsal fin and saddle patch (area behind the dorsal fin) and have their own names. For example, the head of J pod is named Granny (J2) and is thought to have been born in 1911.
Our 3 to 5 Tours
- Discover Orcas, bow riding Dall’s porpoises, sea lions, seals, eagles and more
- Photo ID charts on board for the Killer Whales
- Over 90% success rate sighting whales
- Our Guarantee – Should you not see a whale, come again for free until you do, for life, no expiry
- Travel through the spectacular Gulf and San Juan Islands
- Have a professional naturalist on board who discusses the marine ecosystem and answers questions
- Free all day parking, including RVs
- Complimentary water and snack
- Hydrophones to hear the whales communicating.
Rates & Departure Times
Boat Type |
Adults |
Students
(with valid ID) |
Seniors
(60+) |
Children
(4-12) |
Infants
(0-3) |
| Explorathor (Semi-Covered) |
$120 |
$100 |
$100 |
$75 |
Free |
| Express (Open Air) |
$120 |
$100 |
$100 |
$75 |
Free |
| Lightship 1 (Open Air) |
$125 |
$125 |
$125 |
$125* |
N/A |
* Children must be a minimum of 8 years of age to ride the Lightship.
A $5.00 fuel surchange per person has been included in the rates above.
Departure Times |
Date |
Trip Length |
| 11:00am |
April 1 - June 12 |
3 - 5 Hours |
| 9:00am & 2:00pm |
June 13 - September 6 |
3 - 5 Hours |
| 11:00am |
September 7 - October 31 |
3 - 5 Hours |
Book Your Trip Through Ocean Breeze
Vancouver Bed & Breakfast
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