Campbell River
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Campbell River

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

Spend a day on the water and discover local wildlife on this Campbell River cruise. Visit the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. With an abundance of wildlife in the area, you are likely to encounter many animals both on land and at sea. Choose from two vessel options for your cruise. A covered vessel with indoor seating offers a good option for families. Alternatively, a zodiac-style vessel offers a good option for those who like being outdoors and want to feel the wind through their hair. Hop aboard your chosen vessel, then sit back and relax. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, killer whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, bears, Steller sea lions, and more. Learn from an on-board naturalist and listen to the sounds of whales through hydrophones. While it might not be possible to guarantee you’ll see all of these animals on your tour, this tour offers a great opportunity to see everything that is possible.

Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour

Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour

Journey through the islands of the Discovery Passage, making your way between Vancouver Island and the mainland, on this wildlife boat tour. See different sea and land animals like bears, whales, dolphins, or seals while hearing about the region's history and nature from your guide. Board your boat at the marina and set off into the Strait of Georgia, towards the Northern Gulf Islands, going between the islands of Quadra and Vancouver. Continue north until the passage widens into the Johnstone Strait. Enjoy live commentary on the wildlife and history of the region. On your way have the chance to encounter, orcas, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bears, cinnamon bears, and grizzly bears. Use the hydrophone to listen to the whales as you float along the water. Cap off your boat tour with a thrilling ocean rapids experience, including “Devils Hole” and the “Aaron Rapids,” also known as “The Drain,” before returning to Campbell River.

Campbell River: Salish Sea Whale Watching Adventure

Campbell River: Salish Sea Whale Watching Adventure

Explore the Discovery Island waterways with an experienced marine wildlife naturalist. Travel on modern and comfortable boats to through the Salish Sea in search of humpbacks, Orcas, dolphins, sea lions, other marine mammals, and a variety of sea birds in their natural habitat. Depart from downtown Campbell River at the Coast Marina aboard a custom-designed tour vessel. Search for different species of whales, birds, and other marine mammals. You may even spot black bears, sea otters, or rarer species of whales. Admire views of the mountainous coastline which serves as a magnificent backdrop to the Discovery Islands. The region is also the home of the Homalco People and other First Nations. Guides and skippers will share their expert knowledge of local history, legends, stories, and culturally significant sites throughout the excursion. A portion of your trip price goes to supporting whale research, salmon restoration, Homalco language, and cultural rejuvenation, plus employment and career options for the Homalco people.

Campbell River: 6-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour

Campbell River: 6-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour

Discover an abundance of wildlife in the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. Encounter Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Bears, Steller Sea Lions, and so much more, on a 6-hour Whale Watching Tour, onboard either a Zodiac or Covered vessel with onboard washrooms. Begin at the Floathouse with a brief explanation of the wildlife you may encounter, a map of the general area of travel, and safety information. Travel to see a variety of wildlife in a well maintained, 12 passenger vessel. Enjoy a nature interpretation by your certified Naturalist Guide and Captain. Eat an onshore lunch of freshly made wraps, snacks of homemade baked goods and granola bars, and beverages such as coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and water. Don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars (tripods not recommended). Take in the calm and beautiful scenery while traveling through the narrow passages between the Discovery Islands and into Johnstone Strait, rather than into the open Pacific Ocean. Hear the vocalizations of Orca or Humpback Whales through the onboard Hydrophones (underwater microphones) if those opportunities arise (Orca and Humpback Whales do not communicate all day).

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

Journey to the Orford River Valley aboard a high-speed vessel on a scenic boat ride. Admire the spectacular scenery on the way from Campbell River to Bute Inlet, renowned as one of the best places to observe grizzly bears in the wild. Observe this majestic species on a guided tour. Hop on a speedboat and travel among the Discovery Islands while searching for marine wildlife and whales along the way. Once you arrive at Bute Inlet, meet your Homalco First Nation guides and transfer to the van. Receive a short orientation and head over to the bear viewing platforms. From your perch in the viewing towers, situated above the salmon spawning channel, you will have an unobstructed view of grizzly bears as they roam the river banks. Make sure to have your camera ready, as the specially designed viewing platforms provide ideal photo opportunities. Stay energized and warm throughout your experience with a light snack, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and lunch.

Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

Travel in our comfortable and covered boat to Toba Inlet, to experience the best Grizzly bear expedition in British Columbia. FOR 25 YEARS, TOBA INLET LAYED CLOSED, ITS LOGGING ROADS ABANDONED, AND THE VALLEY LEFT TO THE WHIMS OF NATURE. Only in recent years have people ventured back into the valley. Six kilometers up the forestry road lies a beautiful turquoise tributary river to the main Toba River. The river fills with salmon each fall and the grizzly bears come down from the mountains to enjoy their fill. It is the aim of Klahoose Coastal Adventures to provide an intimate experience for a select few guests to witness this fall spectacle. After a two-hour boat ride following the Toba Inlet with its steep walls and waterfalls thundering into the sea. Our team of experienced guides will meet up with the Klahoose First Nation guides. They will greet us with traditional Coast Salish hospitality at the head of the Inlet. We will drive you up the valley via forestry roads to the bear viewing areas on this river. There are 4 new bear viewing platforms along the river allowing you to become one of the privileged few to witness the mighty Toba Inlet Grizzly Bears going about their fall ritual of gorging themselves on the returning salmon.

Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour

Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour

On this full day adventure, we explore the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. This tour gives us the luxury of time and is designed for those individuals who want to see as much as they can in one single day. With a focus on finding Orca, the extended day means that we can spend quality time with all of the wildlife, like Humpback Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Bears, Sea Lions, and much more that our spectacular area has to offer. You have two options for your adventure: Our covered vessel with indoor seating and space outside for viewing. This boat is great for families and suitable for all ages. Our zodiac style vessel for those who like being outdoors and want to feel the west coast wind through their hair

Campbell River: Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch

Campbell River: Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch

Join a whale-watching cruise that takes you down the Discovery Passage and through its islands. Have the chance to see different whales and listen to their sounds with a hydrophone. Enjoy the company of your nature or biologist specialist and lunch on board. Step onto your boat at the marina and set out to sea to find whales. As you cruise down the passage, keep an eye out for humpback, gray, and minke whales. Use the hydrophone to hear whale sounds that happen underwater. During your cruise spot Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions in their natural environment. Listen to your specialist and learn about the local history and wildlife.  Enjoy an onboard lunch, drinks, and snacks before returning to Campbell River. Feel confident knowing whale sightings have a 99.9% success rate and that your boat is a Transport Canada Approved vessel with onboard washrooms.

Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

Cruise along Discovery Passage to the magnificent Toba Inlet and admire the breathtaking panoramic views surrounding you. Disembark the boat and spend 3 hours spotting grizzly bears along the Campbell River, accompanied by the Klahoose First Nation. Marvel at up-close views of bears frolicking and feeding in the river, along with an array of other wildlife both on land and in the water. Learn interesting facts about the environment from a certified naturalist and captain. Hear the stories and legacy of the Klahoose Nation and their connection to the land from your local guide as you explore the wilderness. Stop to admire the famous waterfalls of the spectacular Toba Inlet.

Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

Explore the Discovery Passage and avoid unexpected weather in a covered boat. See the wildlife and hear about the area's history as you cruise between Vancouver Island and mainland Canada. Meet at the marina and board your covered boat. Set sail into the Strait of Georgia, between Quadra Island and Vancouver Island. Continue north until the waterway widens into the Johnstone Strait. On your way, encounter orcas, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bears, cinnamon bears, and perhaps grizzly bears. Listen to the hydrophone for a chance to hear whales and learn from your specialist as they tell you about the local animal and sea species. Experience some of the world's most thrilling ocean rapids including “Devils Hole” and the “Aaron Rapids,” also known as “The Drain,” before returning to Campbell River.

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Go beyond Campbell River

Our most recommended things to do in Campbell River

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

Spend a day on the water and discover local wildlife on this Campbell River cruise. Visit the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. With an abundance of wildlife in the area, you are likely to encounter many animals both on land and at sea. Choose from two vessel options for your cruise. A covered vessel with indoor seating offers a good option for families. Alternatively, a zodiac-style vessel offers a good option for those who like being outdoors and want to feel the wind through their hair. Hop aboard your chosen vessel, then sit back and relax. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, killer whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, bears, Steller sea lions, and more. Learn from an on-board naturalist and listen to the sounds of whales through hydrophones. While it might not be possible to guarantee you’ll see all of these animals on your tour, this tour offers a great opportunity to see everything that is possible.

Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour

Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour

Journey through the islands of the Discovery Passage, making your way between Vancouver Island and the mainland, on this wildlife boat tour. See different sea and land animals like bears, whales, dolphins, or seals while hearing about the region's history and nature from your guide. Board your boat at the marina and set off into the Strait of Georgia, towards the Northern Gulf Islands, going between the islands of Quadra and Vancouver. Continue north until the passage widens into the Johnstone Strait. Enjoy live commentary on the wildlife and history of the region. On your way have the chance to encounter, orcas, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bears, cinnamon bears, and grizzly bears. Use the hydrophone to listen to the whales as you float along the water. Cap off your boat tour with a thrilling ocean rapids experience, including “Devils Hole” and the “Aaron Rapids,” also known as “The Drain,” before returning to Campbell River.

Campbell River: Salish Sea Whale Watching Adventure

Campbell River: Salish Sea Whale Watching Adventure

Explore the Discovery Island waterways with an experienced marine wildlife naturalist. Travel on modern and comfortable boats to through the Salish Sea in search of humpbacks, Orcas, dolphins, sea lions, other marine mammals, and a variety of sea birds in their natural habitat. Depart from downtown Campbell River at the Coast Marina aboard a custom-designed tour vessel. Search for different species of whales, birds, and other marine mammals. You may even spot black bears, sea otters, or rarer species of whales. Admire views of the mountainous coastline which serves as a magnificent backdrop to the Discovery Islands. The region is also the home of the Homalco People and other First Nations. Guides and skippers will share their expert knowledge of local history, legends, stories, and culturally significant sites throughout the excursion. A portion of your trip price goes to supporting whale research, salmon restoration, Homalco language, and cultural rejuvenation, plus employment and career options for the Homalco people.

Campbell River: 6-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour

Campbell River: 6-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour

Discover an abundance of wildlife in the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. Encounter Humpback Whales, Killer Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Bears, Steller Sea Lions, and so much more, on a 6-hour Whale Watching Tour, onboard either a Zodiac or Covered vessel with onboard washrooms. Begin at the Floathouse with a brief explanation of the wildlife you may encounter, a map of the general area of travel, and safety information. Travel to see a variety of wildlife in a well maintained, 12 passenger vessel. Enjoy a nature interpretation by your certified Naturalist Guide and Captain. Eat an onshore lunch of freshly made wraps, snacks of homemade baked goods and granola bars, and beverages such as coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and water. Don't forget to bring your camera and binoculars (tripods not recommended). Take in the calm and beautiful scenery while traveling through the narrow passages between the Discovery Islands and into Johnstone Strait, rather than into the open Pacific Ocean. Hear the vocalizations of Orca or Humpback Whales through the onboard Hydrophones (underwater microphones) if those opportunities arise (Orca and Humpback Whales do not communicate all day).

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

Journey to the Orford River Valley aboard a high-speed vessel on a scenic boat ride. Admire the spectacular scenery on the way from Campbell River to Bute Inlet, renowned as one of the best places to observe grizzly bears in the wild. Observe this majestic species on a guided tour. Hop on a speedboat and travel among the Discovery Islands while searching for marine wildlife and whales along the way. Once you arrive at Bute Inlet, meet your Homalco First Nation guides and transfer to the van. Receive a short orientation and head over to the bear viewing platforms. From your perch in the viewing towers, situated above the salmon spawning channel, you will have an unobstructed view of grizzly bears as they roam the river banks. Make sure to have your camera ready, as the specially designed viewing platforms provide ideal photo opportunities. Stay energized and warm throughout your experience with a light snack, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and lunch.

Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour With Lunch

Travel in our comfortable and covered boat to Toba Inlet, to experience the best Grizzly bear expedition in British Columbia. FOR 25 YEARS, TOBA INLET LAYED CLOSED, ITS LOGGING ROADS ABANDONED, AND THE VALLEY LEFT TO THE WHIMS OF NATURE. Only in recent years have people ventured back into the valley. Six kilometers up the forestry road lies a beautiful turquoise tributary river to the main Toba River. The river fills with salmon each fall and the grizzly bears come down from the mountains to enjoy their fill. It is the aim of Klahoose Coastal Adventures to provide an intimate experience for a select few guests to witness this fall spectacle. After a two-hour boat ride following the Toba Inlet with its steep walls and waterfalls thundering into the sea. Our team of experienced guides will meet up with the Klahoose First Nation guides. They will greet us with traditional Coast Salish hospitality at the head of the Inlet. We will drive you up the valley via forestry roads to the bear viewing areas on this river. There are 4 new bear viewing platforms along the river allowing you to become one of the privileged few to witness the mighty Toba Inlet Grizzly Bears going about their fall ritual of gorging themselves on the returning salmon.

Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour

Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour

On this full day adventure, we explore the waters of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait. This tour gives us the luxury of time and is designed for those individuals who want to see as much as they can in one single day. With a focus on finding Orca, the extended day means that we can spend quality time with all of the wildlife, like Humpback Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Bears, Sea Lions, and much more that our spectacular area has to offer. You have two options for your adventure: Our covered vessel with indoor seating and space outside for viewing. This boat is great for families and suitable for all ages. Our zodiac style vessel for those who like being outdoors and want to feel the west coast wind through their hair

Campbell River: Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch

Campbell River: Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch

Join a whale-watching cruise that takes you down the Discovery Passage and through its islands. Have the chance to see different whales and listen to their sounds with a hydrophone. Enjoy the company of your nature or biologist specialist and lunch on board. Step onto your boat at the marina and set out to sea to find whales. As you cruise down the passage, keep an eye out for humpback, gray, and minke whales. Use the hydrophone to hear whale sounds that happen underwater. During your cruise spot Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions in their natural environment. Listen to your specialist and learn about the local history and wildlife.  Enjoy an onboard lunch, drinks, and snacks before returning to Campbell River. Feel confident knowing whale sightings have a 99.9% success rate and that your boat is a Transport Canada Approved vessel with onboard washrooms.

Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet

Cruise along Discovery Passage to the magnificent Toba Inlet and admire the breathtaking panoramic views surrounding you. Disembark the boat and spend 3 hours spotting grizzly bears along the Campbell River, accompanied by the Klahoose First Nation. Marvel at up-close views of bears frolicking and feeding in the river, along with an array of other wildlife both on land and in the water. Learn interesting facts about the environment from a certified naturalist and captain. Hear the stories and legacy of the Klahoose Nation and their connection to the land from your local guide as you explore the wilderness. Stop to admire the famous waterfalls of the spectacular Toba Inlet.

Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat

Explore the Discovery Passage and avoid unexpected weather in a covered boat. See the wildlife and hear about the area's history as you cruise between Vancouver Island and mainland Canada. Meet at the marina and board your covered boat. Set sail into the Strait of Georgia, between Quadra Island and Vancouver Island. Continue north until the waterway widens into the Johnstone Strait. On your way, encounter orcas, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, seals, black bears, cinnamon bears, and perhaps grizzly bears. Listen to the hydrophone for a chance to hear whales and learn from your specialist as they tell you about the local animal and sea species. Experience some of the world's most thrilling ocean rapids including “Devils Hole” and the “Aaron Rapids,” also known as “The Drain,” before returning to Campbell River.

Frequently asked questions about Campbell River

What are the best day trips and excursions from Campbell River?

The best day trips and excursions from Campbell River are:

See all day trips and excursions from Campbell River on GetYourGuide

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What people are saying about Campbell River

Overall rating

4.7
(46 reviews)

Embarking on a journey through Campbell River was an awe-inspiring experience. Known for its rich wildlife, we encountered a mother bear and her cubs grazing, a heartwarming sight that epitomized the harmony of nature. The whale-watching was equally thrilling, with orcas and humpbacks putting on a majestic display. This adventure was not just a trip but a profound connection with the natural world, making Campbell River a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

It was a successful, eventful day. Lexi and Alex transported us, informed us, accompanied us and looked after us, as did the boys on the bear tour. We were lucky and were able to see orcas, seals, grizzly bears up close, eagles and seals and take lots of photos of them. The surroundings on water and land were impressive. It is worth taking part in this tour.

Had an excellent day with Marty, our guide. We spotted whales, sealions, seals, bald eagles and ancient artwork on the rocks. The food was excellent, and it was a fantastic day. Heartfelt thanks to Marty for his tip on where to spot bears, we spent time watching two bears fishing for Salmon the very same afternoon. A fantastic day was had by all.

The trip was spectacular, we just missed seeing a bear, but it was worth it.

Perfect weather Lots of whales, dolphins, seals and 2 orcas