Experience Covered Cruiser Whale Watching: A Tofino Adventure with Ahousaht Nation Guides
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2.5–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; accessible to young children and seniors
Overview
Discover the thrilling Covered Cruiser Whale Watching tour in Tofino, BC, led by Ahousaht Nation guides. Spot gray whales, humpbacks, sea otters, and bald eagles while learning Indigenous stories that bring this coastal ecosystem to life.
Covered Cruiser Whale Watching
3 Hours • Ages 2+ • Aboard Covered Cruiser • Narration by Experienced Indigenous Guides
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 2.5-3 hour eco-tour along Vancouver Island's west coast, where you'll witness majestic gray and humpback whales, playful sea otters, and soaring bald eagles. Guided by the Ahousaht Nation, immerse yourself in rich Indigenous culture and stories, fostering a deep connection to this extraordinary ecosystem.
The west coast of Vancouver Island is renowned for its incredible biodiversity!
Duration
3 Hours Total
About
Join our experienced and knowledgeable crew aboard a 12-passenger vessel (zodiac or covered cruiser) for a 2.5-3 hour eco-tour where you’ll explore Pacific Ocean waters to find gray whales, humpback whales and occasionally transient orcas.
You may spot whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds including bald eagles, murrelets and tufted puffins!
In addition to watching and learning about the wildlife that inhabit this region, our guides will also share stories passed down by many generations about Ahousaht haḥuułii (territorial lands, waters) and the historical and cultural significance of the areas that will be explored.
More Info
Ahous Adventures is an eco and cultural adventure tour company owned and operated by the Ahousaht Nation, that offers an exciting variety of excursions within Ahousaht haḥuułii (territorial lands, waters and culture) including tours to Hot Springs Cove, whale watching, and bear watching.
Ahous Adventures invites visitors to explore Ahousaht territories through the lens of the people who have lived on and stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial. Visitors will learn about Ahousaht’s Indigenous culture, language, history and storytelling. We believe by openly sharing Ahousaht knowledge, locals and visitors can deeply connect with the true spirit of this remarkable ecosystem. We hope our guests will feel called to honor the sacredness of the territories and seek to experience a guest-host relationship that is rooted in traditional Ahousaht values of respect and reciprocity. Visitors can offer the gifts of openness, patience and respect to Ahousaht in return.
What's included
- All vessels comply with Transport Canada guidelines
- All safety & floatation equipment is provided in accordance with Transport Canada safety requirements.
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Coastal weather can shift quickly, so wear layers to stay comfortable throughout the tour.
Bring Binoculars
A pair of binoculars will enhance distant wildlife viewing, especially for spotting whales and birds.
Protect Against Sun Exposure
Even on overcast days, UV rays reflect off the water — apply sunscreen and wear a hat.
Listen Closely to Guides
Indigenous guides provide key insights into local ecology and culture; their stories enrich the experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Bald eagles soaring overhead
- Playful sea otters alongside the cruiser
History
The Ahousaht Nation has inhabited this coastal region for thousands of years, maintaining rich oral histories closely tied to the marine environment.
Conservation
This tour emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing practices to minimize disturbance and supports Indigenous-led environmental stewardship efforts.
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Adventure Hotspots in Tofino
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Windbreaker or Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you warm and dry in coastal weather conditions.
Binoculars
Helps spot wildlife farther out on the water.
Camera with Zoom Lens
Captures detailed photos of whales and birds.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Protects your skin from UV rays reflected off the ocean.
summer specific