What types of bears will I see on the tour?

You will see coastal black bears (Ursus americanus), which are adapted to forage along the rocky shores of Clayoquot Sound.

Are children allowed on the bear watching tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages, with safety gear provided for everyone.

Is food or drink allowed on board?

Only water is permitted to avoid disturbing wildlife and maintain cleanliness on the boat.

What happens if bears are not spotted during my tour?

The Whale Centre offers a raincheck guarantee, allowing you to rebook another bear watching tour free of charge.

When is the best time to see bears on the shoreline?

Tours operate at low tide, typically from April through October, when bears forage along the intertidal zones.

Are the boats safe and comfortable?

Yes, tours use Transport Canada certified cabin cruisers equipped with panoramic windows, outdoor decks, and seating for up to 12 guests.

Bear Watching Tours in Tofino with The Whale Centre | Sightseeing Tour | Guided Tour

Adventure Brief

Cruise the calm waters of Clayoquot Sound on a cabin cruiser with The Whale Centre for up-close encounters with foraging black bears and stunning coastal scenery. This small-group bear watching tour offers comfort, expert commentary, and a rare glimpse of British Columbia’s unique coastal ecosystem.

2–3 hours

easy

From CA$187.59

Situated on Canada’s rugged west coast, Tofino serves as the gateway to Clayoquot Sound, a complex network of fjords, inlets, and temperate rainforest that thrives with diverse wildlife. The Whale Centre offers the Bear Watching Tour aboard a spacious cabin cruiser, ferrying small groups through these tranquil waters for intimate encounters with coastal black bears. As tides ebb, these bears emerge from the dense forest, traversing rocky shores to forage for crabs and clams, a remarkable behavior unique to this ecosystem.

This 2.5-hour journey moves through protected passages like Browning Pass and Fortune Channel, where passengers enjoy panoramic views from the boat’s enclosed cabin and open-air decks. The vessel itself balances comfort with immersion, seating up to 12 guests and featuring Transport Canada certified safety and knowledgeable guides who narrate the coastal ecology with engaging insights.

What distinguishes this tour is its focus on calm water navigation and responsible wildlife observation. Low noise levels and strict no-food policies aboard ensure minimal disturbance, enabling glimpses of not only bears but also bald eagles, harbor seals, porpoises, and herons. The seasonality—from April through October—aligns with the bears’ shoreward foraging before salmon runs beckon them upriver.

The Whale Centre’s longevity and experience in Tofino’s outdoor guiding scene add further confidence and authenticity, with a solid sighting success rate and a raincheck guarantee. For visitors looking to deepen their connection to the area’s coastal wilderness, this boat-based bear watch offers an accessible, unforgettable wildlife adventure in one of British Columbia’s most pristine preserves.