 Whale watching tour
JF Bergeron photo During the summer months, the giants of the ocean are one of the main attractions on British Columbia’s northern coast. Humpback, gray and killer whales majestically cruise the waters, thrilling sightseers from all over the world.
Whale Watching in Haida GwaiiThe salmon-rich waters along the coast and surrounding the 140 islands of Haida Gwaii (the Queen Charlottes) are perfect feeding grounds for these spectacular creatures, making it one of the best places in the world to observe them. They are the world’s largest mammals – Humpback and Gray whales, along with giant Orcas, or killer whales, with the cold Pacific waters providing the perfect summer playground. The Humpbacks are a favorite sight, as they heave their giant bodies, arching out of the water, splashing with the slap of their fins.
Orcas, with their massive (average 11-ton) bodies, are known for their distinctive, sleek black-and-white color. Most of these sea-loving creatures measure at least 25 feet by adulthood.
Whale Watching in Prince RupertWhales gather by the thousands, from late spring through early fall, near this northern port town: about 20,000 gray whales alone pass by on their way to the Bering Sea. Pods come for the salmon-rich waters that surround the Queen Charlotte Islands; they also feed and frolic throughout the sheltered Northern Inside Passage.
Prince Rupert is situated at the mouth of the Skeena River, 1,502 km (933 mi) from Vancouver, and is easily accessible by air, rail, cruise ship, ferry, car or RV. It is an arrival and departure point for BC Ferries sailings to and from the Queen Charlotte Islands, as well as for the Alaska Marine Highway’s ferry service to various Alaskan communities, including Ketchikan.
Migration Times in Northern BC
When booking an excursion, ask local whale-watching operators for peak migration times for humpback, grey, Orca and minke whales (it varies by species). Knowing when the whales are on the move increases the chances of seeing these magnificent mammals.
During an excursion, you're also likely to view sea lions, seals, porpoises and eagles, which also populate these protected waters.
The area is alive, too, with 10,000 years of First Nations history and culture — elements of which are incorporated into the experience.
Whale Watching by KayakKayaking can be considered the perfect way to view whales: the awesomeness of these huge mammals is made all the more vivid when lucky enough to be seen from such a small, silent vessel. Guided kayak excursions range from three hours to several days.
The channels, straits and inter-tidal waters between Prince Rupert and the Queen Charlotte Islands contain some of the richest marine life in the world. Look out for waterfowl, sea lions, seals, porpoise, and eagles. Trips often combine whale watching with interpretive walks in the rainforest, beachcombing on nearby islands and an exploration of the ancient, enthralling Haida culture.
Self-guided TripsExperienced paddlers can rent kayaks in Prince Rupert as well as in Skidegate and Masset on the Queen Charlotte Islands. Two popular locations to explore are Work Channel by Prince Rupert and nearby Porcher Island. If you venture out overnight, prepare to be self-sufficient.
How to book a Northern BC whale-watching tour:A number of whale-watching operators have excursions out of historic Cow Bay on Prince Rupert's waterfront. Trips vary anywhere from a few hours to multi-day excursions. Visitors can also charter or rent boats for self-guided whale watching.
Planning a Kayaking Tour:
- Do not disturb the whales and other wildlife from the tour boat or kayak
- Approximate time required: 4-6 hours
- Dress appropriately: layer, layer, layer: pants, t-shirt, fleece sweater, soft-soled shoes/rainboots, gloves, toque, rainjacket
Kayaking Safety Tips:
- Stay at least 100 m (330 ft) away
- Approach whales from the side
- Maintain low speed
- Do not feed or swim with the whales
Find out more about some of the province's whale-watching operators in the Whale Watching Listings.
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