 Oak Bay Marine Group photo
Prepare to witness a 5,000-kg (12,000-lb) Orca arcing out of the water, then landing with a resounding splash that can be heard for miles around.
Conveniently board a tour boat in downtown Victoria’s Inner HarbourIt's a dynamic area teeming with barges, yachts, windsurfers, seaplanes, freighters, tugboats and log booms. Within minutes, your world changes to one of remote lighthouses, ancient forests, out-of-the-way beaches and craggy coasts.
Whale sightings are high near Victoria, particularly from May to NovemberWhale-watching operators in the area manage an excellent search network — whales are located using surveillance equipment, then their whereabouts shared, ensuring a high probability of successful whale sightings, especially during feeding season. Be on the lookout for seals, porpoises, eagles, sea lions and marine birds, too.
Choose from daily, guided whale-watching excursions leaving from Victoria, and nearby Sidney and SookeWhale-watching operators offer daily trips from Victoria’s downtown Inner Harbour and the community of Oak Bay. Check out our listings at the bottom of this page for details on some of these operators.
Several whale-watching charters also operate from Sidney’s waterfront — about a 30-minute drive north of downtown Victoria via Hwy 17 — leading excursions through scenic Haro Strait and the US’ San Juan Islands.
Another optimal viewing option: depart from Sooke — a 40-minute drive west from downtown Victoria via Hwy 14 — in a high-speed zodiac. This picturesque town is the closest departure point to the breathtaking Sombrio Point and Race Rocks viewing areas. Check with a tour operator for more information.
Other ways to watch the whales
If a guided excursion isn't for you, simply watch for whales while boating or fishing along Victoria’s shores. Or, for a stellar adventure, experience whale watching by kayak. The area’s numerous bays and coves, secluded beaches and marine-life-rich waters make whale watching by kayak a joyous, unforgettable voyage.
Sidney’s close proximity to the Gulf Islands makes this town a popular gateway for both guided and independent kayaking trips.
Experienced paddlers may want to bring along camping gear and explore the area over a number of days. While there are several communities among the Gulf Islands, much of the area is remote — be prepared to be self-sufficient for the trip.
A few tips for your whale watching day out:• Do not disturb the whales and other wildlife from the tour boat or kayak
• Approximate time required: 3 hours
• Dress appropriately: pants/shorts, t-shirt/light sweatshirt, sandals/soft-soled shoes (warmer days); pants, fleece/sweater, soft-soled shoes, gloves and toque (cooler days)
• Bring a camera with a good zoom lens, but be reminded that on Zodiac boats, you may get splashed
Some whale-watching and kayaking safety tips:• Stay at least 100 m (330 ft) away from any wildlife.
• 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 excellent whale-watching operators by clicking on the Show All Whale Watching Listings link below.
>Show all Whale Watching listings
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