Numerous adventure, wildlife, whale watching, and grizzly bear tours depart Campbell River from May through the end of October. These thrilling half and full-day trips utilize either high-speed zodiacs or comfortable cruisers in travelling up the Discovery Passage to prime killer whale territory in the Johnstone Strait.
Whales, Seals, Eagles & More
Pods of Orcinus orca (aka orca whales, the largest member of the dolphin family) travel through the region's cold, deliciously well-stocked waters year-round. Some 220 of these magnificent black-and-white predators reside full-time off northern Vancouver Island from June to October. Signing up for whale-watching expedition is the best way to see orcas in the wild as they go through their behaviours of spy hopping, slapping, breaching, and lobtailing. Skippers know these waters well and adhere to government ecotourism regulations designed to ensure the safety of the region's wildlife.
Also expect to take snapshots of stellar sea lions, harbour seals, pacific white-sided dolphins, dall's porpoises, and all kinds of birdlife – bald eagles, oystercatchers, turnstones, and marbled murrelets included. Grey, minke, and humpback whales are treasured if by no means guaranteed sightings.
Grizzly Bear Tours
From late August to late October, massive grizzlies descend from higher ground to fatten up on spawning salmon prior to settling in for a long winter's hibernation. Campbell River tour operators take boatloads of ecotourists to Bute Inlet, among other prime feeding grounds. Passengers then climb into safari vans and are driven to safe viewing platforms where they can view these giants as they feast at the edge of the Orford River.
Salmon Perspectives
Slip into the Campbell River wearing mask, snorkel, flippers, and wetsuit for a unique encounter with the region's favorite migratory visitors. Destiny River Adventures, Campbell River Snorkel Tours, and Paradise Found Adventures each offer half-day dips from July to the start of spawning season in October. Watch from a raft or dive in and swim with the salmon.
Tour Operators
Book a tour in advance. Or personally check out the various tours offered by local adventure companies, many of whom are headquartered alongside their boats downtown at the Coast Marina and the Discovery Harbour Marina. Each has their own unique spin on the experience whether in terms of itinerary, type of boat, or onboard perks (i.e., meals, seating arrangements, group capacity, etc.). Stop by the Campbell River Visitor Centre for more information about wildlife viewing tour operators in the area.