Whale Watching

In spring, Eschrichtius robustus, or Gray whales, leave their wintering grounds off Mexico's Baja Peninsula to feed as far north as Alaska. Clayoquot sound is their migratory corridor. Some remain here to feed. These gentle giants are a common sight from March until late October.

Residents, transients, and offshores, scientists are still unsure why some Orcinus orca, or Killer whales, patrol their territory as a pod, while others, rogue hunters, roam up and down the coast, or travel far out to sea, to find their prey. The transient orcas are found in our waters during the spring, summer and fall months and are a spectacle to witness in the wild.

Come summer, Megaptera novaeangliae, or Humpback whales, travel east from Maui. Enormous, majestic, and mysteriously fond of breaching, a humpback shattering the surface of the water is a truly unforgettable sight.

Whale-watching trips take place in outside waters on board a vessel specifically designed to optimize your viewing pleasure. Walk around the entire outside deck of the boat or stay inside out of the rain, and on the way expect to see Haliaeetus leucocephalus, or bald eagles, Eumetopias jubatus and Zalophus californianus - Stellar and California sea lions, and Phocu vitulina, or harbour seals.

Bear Watching

The Esowista peninsula and the outer Clayoquot Islands shield the inner reaches of Clayoquot sound from stormy waters. The calm, inside passages behind Mearse Island are the best place to see Ursus americanus, or black bears from the 'walk-around' deck or the bridge of our specially designed vessel. Emerging from their winter hibernation to feed all summer and fall, bears are a common sight on these protected beaches, turning over rocks to feed on crab and other pelagic animals. Bald eagles, California sea lions and harbour seals also make an appearance.