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11 Best Whale Watching Tours in Victoria, BC in 2024
When it comes to Victoria’s whale watching tours, there are plenty of options to choose from.
But how do you know which one is the best for you?
There are inflatable zodiac boats, covered boat, seaplanes, and more!
Not to mention, there are a ton of different companies all claiming to offer the best experience.
To help you sort through all of your options, I’ve put together an honest review of the best whale watching tours in Victoria, BC.
I’ll tell you what to expect on each tour, and help you choose the best one for your budget and preferences.
Get ready to book the best whale watching tour in Victoria, BC!
🐳 This is my favourite whale watching tour in Victoria, BC!
Best Time of Year for Whale Watching in Victoria BC: Victoria Whale Watching Season
The best time of year for whale watching in Victoria is from late April to early October.
During this time, you have the highest chance of seeing Orcas, Humpback Whales, and other types of whales that frequent the waters around Vancouver Island.
Keep in mind that the peak season for whale watching is from July to September.
If you want to avoid the crowds, try booking a tour during shoulder season (April-May or October).
Best Time to See Orcas in Victoria, BC
If your main goal is to see Orcas (also known as Killer Whales), the best time to go whale watching in Victoria is from July to September.
This is when the Orca pods are most active in the waters around Vancouver Island.
Keep in mind that seeing Orcas is never guaranteed, even during peak season.
However, your chances are much higher during this time of year.
Types of Whales in Victoria, British Columbia
There are a few different types of whales that you might see on a whale watching tour in Victoria, BC.
The most common whales are Orcas, Humpback Whales, and Minke Whales.
You might also see Harbour Porpoises, Dall’s Porpoises, and Pacific White-sided Dolphins.
On top of these marine mammals, you may spot northern elephant seals, California sea lions, steller sea lions, and sea otters!
Here’s a brief overview of each type of whale:
Orcas: Orcas are the largest member of the dolphin family. They are also known as Killer Whales. Orcas are black and white, with a distinctive dorsal fin. Males can reach up to 32 feet long, while females are typically around 28 feet long.
Humpback Whales: Humpback Whales are easily recognizable thanks to their long pectoral fins and distinctive hump. They are known for their acrobatic breaching behavior. Humpback Whales are typically around 52 feet long.
Minke Whales: Minke Whales are the smallest type of baleen whale. They are dark gray or black with white patches. Male Minke Whales can reach up to 30 feet long, while females are typically around 27 feet long.
How to See Whales in Victoria
By Boat Tour
The best way to see whales in Victoria is by boat tour.
There are two different types of boat tours to choose from: inflatable zodiac boats and covered boats.
Zodiac Boat Tours: Zodiac boat tours are small, inflatable boats that can hold up to 12 people. These tours are great for those who want a more intimate and personal experience.
Covered Boat Tours: Covered boat tours are larger boats that can hold up to 60 people. These tours are great for those who want to see whales without getting wet. It’s also a bit more stable to prevent sea sickness.
Both types of boat tours offer the opportunity to see whales up close.
However, covered boat tours are more expensive and tend to be less intimate than zodiac boat tours.
By Airplane
Airplane tours offer a unique perspective of the whales and their habitat.
You’ll be able to see more whales on an airplane tour than you would on a boat tour.
However, airplane tours are more expensive than boat tours.
You won’t get nearly as close to the whales, since you’ll be soaring high above them.
By Kayak
Kayak tours are a great way to see whales up close and personal.
However, these tours are only for experienced kayakers.
If you’re not comfortable kayaking in the ocean, it’s best to book a different type of tour.
I’m not an experienced kayaker, so this isn’t my cup of tea at all.
🚣♀️ I recommend this inflatable kayak
By Ferry
The ferry from Vancouver to Victoria isn’t guaranteed to see whales, but if you’re lucky, you might spot a whale or two from the ferry.
However, keep in mind that you won’t be able to get close enough for a good look.
This is more of a passive way to see whales since you’re not actively looking for them.
From Shore
If you don’t want to spend the money on a tour, you can try to see whales from shore.
The best place to do this is at Race Rocks Lighthouse.
This is a popular spot for whale watching since it’s known as a gathering place for orcas.
Keep in mind that you’re not likely to see whales from shore unless you’re at a popular spot like Race Rocks Lighthouse.
Some people do manage to get glimpses from a Vancouver Island VRBO homestay on quiet mornings.
It’s more down to luck than anything else!
Victoria Whale Watching Tour Companies
There are many tour companies that offer whale watching tours in Victoria.
Here are some of the most popular tour companies:
- Prince of Whales
- Orca Spirit Adventures
- SpringTide
- Five Star
- Eagle Wing
These companies all offer similar products in terms of the type of boats and their success ratings for seeing whales, especially orcas. Most have a success rating of over 80 or 90%.
They have zodiac and covered boat tour options.
I’ve included a variety of Victoria whale watching tour companies in this list to show you the range of options for spotting wild whales in BC.
My favourite tour company is Prince of Whales – not just for their fun name.
They also run excellent whale watching tour from Vancouver.
Their plethora of timing options makes it really easy to book a tour. And their whale-sighting guarantee means that you can return for free if you don’t manage to spot any whales on your tour!
11 Best Whale Watching Tours Victoria, BC
1. Half-Day Whale Watching Adventure From Victoria by Prince of Whales
This is one of the most amazing whale watching experiences you can have in British Columbia. You’ll be aboard a small, semi-covered vessel that was specifically built for these types of trips.
The boat leaves from Fisherman’s Wharf in downtown Victoria.
You’ll head out in a semi-covered boat with a heated indoor cabin, so even on chilly mornings you can stay dry and warm.
The boat leaves through the Haro Strait, then follows the Strait of Juan de Fuca, ultimately reaching the Salish Sea. Along the way you can spot orcas, humpbacks, and minke whales as your marine naturalist guides help you learn more about these gentle giants.
The guides clearly love their job, radiating energy as they help you spot wild whales throughout the journey.
“We’ve tried whale watching in Monterey California and it sucked due to inexperienced crew and everyone onboard got sea sick – but with this crew, everything was awesome” — Aditya (see more reviews)
Beyond the whales, you’ll also get the opportunity to see seals and bald eagles enjoying the sea alongside Vancouver Island.
After three hours, you’ll be sad to leave the sea for land again, but you’ll have some incredible pictures of whales to show off to your friends and family back home.
Between the breathtaking scenery of the Salish Sea and the incredible whale sightings, this is easily one of the best things to do in Victoria, BC.
- Highlights: Semi-covered boat, heated cabin, orcas and humpbacks, bald eagles
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 4 hours
- Price: $152
2. Sunset Whale Watching Adventure From Victoria by Prince of Whales
If you’re looking for an unforgettable whale watching experience, look no further than Prince of Whales. They offer several different whale watching tours, but the sunset tour is definitely a photographer’s dream.
The tour begins in downtown Victoria and heads out into the Strait of Juan de Fuca in search of orcas, humpback whales, and sea lions.
Unlike their other tours on semi-covered boats or inflatable zodiac boats, this sunset cruise takes place on a catamaran. With three separate viewing platforms and less water disruption, this sailing vessel offers more opportunities to get close to the whales for the perfect photo op.
However, catamarans can be more at the mercy of the water, so definitely take a sea sickness pill before you hop aboard!
As marine mammals like whales are most playful at sunrise and sunset, this is the best time of day to see them.
Not to mention, the views of Vancouver Island and the Olympic Mountains as the sun sets are truly incredible.
“It was just amazing! Words can’t do the justice to this experience.” — Shikha (see more reviews)
If you’re too busy enjoying the views in real time, don’t worry! The marine naturalist guides are also snapping photos of the whales as you sail, which they offer to you at no extra cost.
It’s just one of the many ways that the Prince of Whales guides go above and beyond to ensure you have the best experience.
After three hours on the water, you’ll be treated to a complimentary beverage as you sail back into downtown Victoria.
If you’re looking for an amazing evening activity and the chance to spot the ocean’s giants, you’ll love this whale watching tour in Victoria, BC!
- Highlights: Sunset, catamaran, 3 viewing decks, orcas and humpbacks, photography
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $166
3. From Vancouver: Victoria Whale Watching Adventure by Harbour Seaplanes & Orca Spirit Adventures
Get up close and personal with orcas on this whale watching adventure from Vancouver to Victoria. You’ll take a seaplane ride over the Gulf Islands, then spend three hours on a whale watching tour before returning back to Vancouver.
You’ll meet at the Vancouver Seaplane Terminal in downtown Vancouver, then board your seaplane for the short flight to Victoria. As you fly, you’ll have incredible views of the Pacific Northwest and the Gulf Islands.
Once you land in Victoria, you’ll board an Orca Spirit Adventures vessel for your three hour whale watching tour.
This is the only company in Victoria that is allowed to go into the protected waters of the Southern Resident Killer Whales.
“The flight over to Victoria and back was amazing. We had about 3 hours in Victoria which was perfect for a walk about and lunch.” — Jennifer (see more reviews)
While orcas are the focus of this tour, you also may spot some humpback whales, sea otters, and seals!
Don’t forget to look back at the land for beautiful views of Southern Vancouver Island.
I love this tour’s offer of a flight and the chance to see a unique pod of whales that call Vancouver Island home. It’s perfect for people visiting Vancouver for a week who don’t have time to explore Vancouver Island.
You’ll get the best of both worlds – sea and sky – on this epic whale watching tour!
- Highlights: Seaplane, orcas, Gulf Islands, views of Southern Vancouver Island
- Starting point: Fisherman’s Wharf
- Duration: 8 hours
- Price: $539
4. Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure From Victoria by Prince of Whales
The Prince of Whales Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure is a must-do for any whale watching enthusiast visiting Victoria, BC.
This 3 hour tour takes you out into the rolling waves in a zodiac speedboat, providing an up-close and personal experience with humpbacks, minke, and orcas.
You’ll learn about their life cycle and migration patterns as the crew goes the extra mile – literally – to ensure you spot these wild giants.
“We have gone on a zodiac with another company but this surpassed that experience. We saw more whales due to the locations traveled to and patience of the crew. ” — Maria (see more reviews)
Zodiac tours do mean you’ll get wet!
While you’ll be provided with an all-weather exposure floatation suit, you should still expect to wear clothes that can get damp underneath.
Although the inflatable boat is buoyant even on rough seas, it can get a bit rocky. I recommend taking a seasickness pill before you get on the boat to ensure you spend your time enjoying the whales and not puking on top of them!
This small boat seats 12 passengers, which means you won’t be crowded around the edges unable to get views of the whales.
Get ready to cruise the rolling waves of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and to get up close to wild whales on this tour!
- Highlights: Orcas and humpbacks, zodiac boat, floatation suit, small groups
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $147
5. From Victoria: Whale Watching 3-Hour Trip on Covered Boat by Orca Spirit Adventures
Looking to escape the rain or sun while whale watching in Victoria, BC? Then this tour by Orca Spirit Adventures is perfect for you!
This three-hour tour takes place on a covered vessel, meaning you can stay dry (or cool) no matter what the weather is like outside.
The guides on this tour are marine naturalists whose knowledge and passion for Vancouver Island’s marine wildlife are unequaled.
During the tour, you’ll learn all about the resident and transient orcas that live in the Pacific Ocean around Vancouver Island.
You may also spot humpback whales, seals, eagles, and sea lions!
“Comfortable boat with options to sit inside and out, not overly booked so enough room to move around.” — Laura (see more reviews)
The best part of this tour is the complimentary hot beverages and the indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
This is a great tour for those who want to learn more about the local marine wildlife and escape the elements at the same time. And with a 95% success rate in spotting whales, you’re almost guaranteed to see some giants on this tour!
And if you don’t, you’ll be invited back free of charge.
Orca Spirit Adventures aren’t satisfied until you’ve spotted a whale in Victoria!
- Highlights: orcas, hot beverages, indoor and outdoor viewing, covered boat
- Starting point: Victoria Harbour Ferry
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $150
6. Victoria: 3-Hour Zodiac Whale-Watching Tour by Orca Spirit Adventures
This three-hour Zodiac whale-watching tour by Orca Spirit Adventures is the perfect way to see some of Victoria’s most beautiful landmarks while also getting an up-close look at resident and transient orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, and gray whales.
During the tour, you’ll cruise past notable landmarks such as the Christ Church Cathedral and the Parliament Buildings, and you’ll also get to listen to the hydrophones that pick up the whale calls as they communicate below.
“Saw a humpback BREACHING!! Thrill of a lifetime.” — (see more reviews)
Not only is this tour an exhilarating way to see some of Victoria’s most popular attractions, but it’s also a great way to learn about the local marine wildlife and their habitat.
Orca Spirit Adventures is dedicated to providing its guests with a memorable and educational experience, and this tour is sure to deliver.
The 12-person boat ensures that you won’t be crowded around the edges and that everyone on the tour will have a great view of the whales.
So if you’re looking for an up-close and personal whale watching experience in Victoria, BC, then this is the tour for you!
- Highlights: Orcas, zodiac boat, hydrophones
- Starting point: Victoria Harbour Ferry
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $140
7. Victoria, BC: 3-Hour Ultimate Whale & Marine Wildlife Tour by 5 Star Whale Watching
Come enjoy the best whale watching in Victoria BC on this luxurious coastal explorer boat. Five Star Whale Watching offers killer whale, humpback, and other wildlife tours departing daily from downtown Victoria.
Benefit from excellent unobstructed views with in- and outdoor viewing areas on this spacious vessel as you learn about the rich marine environment of the Salish Sea from your knowledgeable captain and naturalist guide. Relax in the heated cabin or take in the fresh sea air on one of the multiple sundecks.
“It was an amazing experience – the guides were extremely knowledgeable about orcas & the eco system.” — (see more reviews)
This is a great tour for those who want to see the best of what Victoria’s whale watching has to offer.
So come enjoy the best whale watching Victoria BC has to offer on this luxurious coastal explorer boat today!
- Highlights: Orcas, humpback, small covered boat, heated cabin
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $125
8. Victoria: 3-Hour Whale Watching Tour by SpringTide Whale Watching
Experience the best whale watching in Victoria BC on this three-hour tour with SpringTide Whale Watching.
Departing from the Inner Harbour, you’ll cruise past some of Victoria’s most popular landmarks as you search for orcas, humpback whales, minke whales, and gray whales.
Your knowledgeable captain and naturalist guide will provide you with interesting facts and anecdotes about the local marine wildlife.
There are several viewing decks on board, as well as a 360-degree observation deck for the ultimate whale watching experience.
“We saw over a dozen. The marine biologist and ecologist were very helpful and informative throughout the entire trip.” — (see more reviews)
Tours are available in both French and English.
So come aboard and learn all about the fascinating Pacific Coast whales, marine mammals, and birds that call this area home.
You might even spot some of BC’s other wildlife, such as bald eagles, sea lions, and seals!
- Highlights: Orcas, humpback whales, seals and sea lions, eagles, 360 degree observation deck
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $152
9. Victoria: Sunset Whale Watching Tour by Five Star
Join Five Star Whale Watching for an unforgettable sunset whale watching tour in Victoria BC.
As the sun sets, you’ll cruise the Salish Sea in search of orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life.
These creatures head out at night in search of food. And with a full belly, they’re much more playful!
You’re sure to see some incredible acrobatics as they breach and dive.
Not to mention, the sunset casts a beautiful glow on the water.
It’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable whale watching experience.
Your captain and naturalist guide will share interesting facts and stories about the local wildlife as you enjoy the stunning scenery.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see some of the world’s most majestic creatures in their natural habitat!
So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and witness the incredible beauty of the Salish Sea!
- Highlights: Orcas and humpback whales, minke whales, Salish Sea views, otters and porpoises, sunset
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $119
10. Private Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure From Victoria by Prince of Whales
Experience the ultimate in whale watching with this private zodiac tour from Victoria.
You and up to 11 of your closest friends or family will enjoy exclusive access to the vessel as you cruise the waters of Haro Strait and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Keep your eyes peeled for whales, dolphins, porpoises, seals, and other marine life.
Your captain and naturalist guide will provide you with interesting facts and stories about the local wildlife.
And with a 93% whale sighting success rate, you’re sure to see some incredible creatures!
“We got some great action shots of whales jumping out of the water!” — (see more reviews)
All weather exposure floatation suits are provided, so you can enjoy your tour in any weather conditions.
Whales have been known to come right up to the boat, so make sure to have your camera handy at all times for life-changing pictures.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see some of the world’s most majestic creatures up close and personal!
- Highlights: Private zodiac boat, orcas, humpback whales, dolphins
- Starting point: Wharf Street
- Duration: 3 hours
- Price: $1200 (up to 12 people)
11. Vancouver: Victoria, Gulf Islands Cruise, & Butchart Gardens by Gray Line Westcoast Sightseeing
This isn’t a whale watching tour of Victoria, BC per se. But this tour does include a 90-minute ferry ride through the Gulf Islands, where you just might spot some whales!
After cruising through the stunning gulf islands, you’ll arrive in Victoria where you’ll enjoy a tour of Butchart Gardens.
Then it’s off to explore downtown Victoria, Chinatown, and the Inner Harbour.
“Enjoyable day, with a 3 hour cruise to and from Vancouver Island, which was interesting as we cruised by all the little islands.” — (see more reviews)
Your knowledgeable guide will share interesting facts and stories about the city’s rich history and culture.
You’ll also have some free time to explore on your own.
So whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an action-packed vacation, this tour has something for everyone.
Book your tour today and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Victoria from Vancouver!
- Highlights: Tour of Victoria, 90 minute whale watching tour
- Starting point: Canada Place
- Duration: 12-13 hours
- Price: $249
Wrap Up: Best Whale Watching in Victoria
If you’re looking for the best whale watching in Victoria, BC, then look no further than these amazing tours.
With a variety of options to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
So get your camera ready and book your tour today!
You’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
My favourite tours are run by Prince of Whales, which offers a 93% success rate at spotting wild orcas, humpbacks, minke whales and more!
Whether you prefer a covered boat that can handle any weather, a sunset tour on a romantic catamaran, or an adventure-fueled excursion in a zodiac motor boat, they’ve got you covered!
They also offer a private charter option, which is perfect for groups or families.
No matter what you’re looking for, Prince of Whales is sure to have a whale watching tour in Victoria, BC that’s perfect for you.
So what are you waiting for? Book your tour today and witness the incredible beauty of the Salish Sea!
🐳 This is my favourite whale watching tour in Victoria, BC!
FAQs:
Is whale watching worth it in Victoria BC?
Yes, whale watching is definitely worth it in Victoria! With a variety of tours to choose from, there’s something for everyone.
You’ll have an unforgettable experience getting up close and personal with some of the world’s most majestic creatures. From humpback whales breaching to orcas chirping into under-the-sea microphones, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
🐳 This is my favourite whale watching tour in Victoria, BC!
Is it better to do whale watching in Vancouver or Victoria?
There is no wrong answer to this question, as both Vancouver and Victoria offer incredible whale watching experiences. However, there are some key differences between the two cities that you should keep in mind when making your decision.
In Vancouver, whale watching tours have to travel farther to spot whales, so you’ll spend more time commuting to them. However, they are often more accessible on a vacation in BC.
Whale watching tours in Victoria, BC, have a higher chance of spotting orcas that live in Vancouver Island’s waters. But the tours have fewer departure times.
Both Vancouver and Victoria offer a variety of whale watching tour options, so it’s important to do your research before booking one. The best way to find the perfect tour for you is to read reviews and compare prices.
No matter which city you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience whale watching in BC!
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Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
