Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in BC's coastal wildlife as you travel through the gulf islands archipelago in search of killer whales (orcas), humpbacks, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and more. Your guide has an academic background in biology and a passion for marine life! Whale sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is FREE. Hop onboard our 12-passenger zodiac style vessel and you'll experience whales and other marine life right at water level! We'll fit you for an anti-exposure suits that will keep you warm and help protect you from the elements.
Available options
Open Boat tour
Join our 3-4 hour whale watching cruise professionally guided by a marine naturalist with an academic background in marine biology. See orcas, humpback whales, seals, sea lions, eagles, and more!
What's included
Toilets onboard
Anti-exposure suit provided
Captain is certified by Transport Canada
Professional guide with academic background in marine biology
What's not included
Parking not Included
Lunch is not included.
Gratuities
Transportation to/from office
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
45 reviews
5★
41
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
149 reviews
5★
142
4★
3
3★
2
2★
2
1★
0
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.
Not suitable for pregnant women.
Minimum numbers apply. If there are not enough passengers to meet requirements, there is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation, in which case an alternative date or full refund will be offered.
Meeting point
Our office is located on Front Street, the seawall along downtown Nanaimo's waterfront.
Important notes
Please read the following carefully:
Check-in is 45 minutes before your departure time and is mandatory for all passengers.
We require a digital waiver form to be filled out by each guest before departure which will be available in our office. Minors waivers(18 years and younger) must be signed by a parent or guardian. If you require this waiver beforehand, please let us know.
If there are any trip delays or cancellations due to sea conditions or low numbers, we will message you on the morning of your departure. If you will not have access to your email while you are in Nanaimo, please call after 8:00 am on the day of your trip to confirm your departure.
We recommend that you bring the following:
- Comfortable clothes and shoes. Please dress appropriately according to the weather
- Water
- Sunglasses + sunscreen
- Cameras and/or video equipment (we can provide dry storage on the boat, cases still recommended)
- Motion sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness. Note: Seasickness is generally not an issue on our tours as we travel in an inland sea and are within sight of land the entire tour
- Cash if you feel inspired to tip your crew at the end of your tour
We are located at the Harbourfront Walkway at 5-90 Front Street, along the seawall in Nanaimo BC.
If you're driving to our office there is paid parking nearby at the Pioneer Waterfront Plaza and the Harbour Front Parkade. Maffeo Sutton Park is recommended for parking RVs and other taller vehicles and is about a 10-minute walk from our office.
If you need detailed directions or any assistance with transportation, please contact us once you are in Nanaimo or visit us online at www.vancouverislandwhalewatch.com.
We're looking forward to having you aboard! We have a high success rate in finding whales (over 90%!), and most of the whales we find are orca and/or humpbacks. But if you don't see a whale then your next trip is on us! Your free offer is non-transferable and never expires.
About Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island is a stunning destination known for its rugged coastline, lush rainforests, and vibrant cities. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and relaxed coastal living, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and urban explorers alike.
Top Attractions
Butchart Gardens
A world-renowned botanical garden featuring stunning floral displays and themed gardens.
Nature
2-3 hours
$30 CAD
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
A stunning national park featuring rugged coastline, old-growth forests, and world-class surfing.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Free (parking fees apply)
Whale Watching Tours
Vancouver Island is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with opportunities to see orcas, humpback whales, and gray whales.
Adventure
3-4 hours
$100-$150 CAD
Must-Try Local Dishes
Spot Prawns
Fresh, sweet prawns caught locally and often served grilled or in pasta dishes.
Main Course
Contains shellfish
Nanaimo Bars
A no-bake dessert bar with layers of crumbly base, custard-flavored butter icing, and chocolate ganache.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and nuts
Salmon
Fresh, wild-caught salmon often served grilled, smoked, or in sushi.
Main Course
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
Kayaking
Whale Watching
Beachcombing
Spa Day
Picnicking
Wine Tasting
Best Time to Visit
June to September
This is the best time to visit Vancouver Island for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm and dry, perfect for exploring the island's natural beauty.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English, French, Chinese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
PST (GMT-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Vancouver Island is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when using ATMs
- • Avoid leaving drinks unattended
Getting there
By air
- Victoria International Airport • 20 km from Victoria city center
- Comox Valley Airport • 10 km from Courtenay city center
By bus
Victoria, Nanaimo, Campbell River
Getting around
Public transport
BC Transit offers bus services in major cities and towns on Vancouver Island. The services are reliable and affordable.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Victoria
Downtown Nanaimo
Tofino
Day trips
Cape Scott Provincial Park
200 km from Victoria • Full day or overnight
A remote and rugged coastal park with stunning scenery, old-growth forests, and wildlife.
Goldstream Provincial Park
20 km from Victoria • Half day to full day
A beautiful park featuring waterfalls, old-growth forests, and hiking trails.
Horne Lake Caves
80 km from Nanaimo • Half day to full day
A network of caves offering guided tours and underground adventures.
Festivals
Victoria Jazz Festival • July
Pacific Rim Whale Festival • March
Tofino Ucluelet Winter Music Festival • January
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Rent a car for flexibility and access to remote areas
- Pack layers and waterproof clothing for variable weather conditions
- Book accommodations and popular tours well in advance
- Try local seafood and support sustainable fishing practices
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
