Salish Sea Adventure Tours with Rugged Coast Expeditions
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–2.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families with children aged 5 and up.
Overview
Set sail from Powell River for a private 2-2.5 hour journey into the Salish Sea’s rich marine world. Witness humpback whales, sea lions, and more while learning the coast’s stories aboard the Black Barnacle.
Private Adventure Education Tour
For ages 5 and up! • 2 to 2.5 Hours • Up to 12 People • Explore the untamed coast!
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a private adventure in the stunning Salish Sea, where you'll explore the rich history and diverse marine life, including majestic humpback whales and playful sea lions. With a “choose your own adventure” element, each tour promises unique encounters and insights into this vibrant ecosystem. Join us aboard the Black Barnacle!
Duration
2 to 2.5 Hours
About
This tour enables you to book only for your party and takes place in the heart of the Salish Sea - Georgia and Malaspina Straits. Here we will discover the remarkable history of these waters and search for a variety of sea life - including the largest mammals on our section of the coast - whales and Northern Steller's. This tour has an element of “choose your own adventure” whereby we will choose from a list of options the guide will provide you.
Commonly found in the Salish are the song birds of the ocean - the perpetually graceful Humpback Whales. They migrate from their warm water breeding grounds to this cold water coast for feeding season. Some are on their way to Alaska and some choose to remain here due to the feed rich waters. They are often found fishing in groups and display some of the most unique feeding behavior of all cetaceans.
Northern Steller Sealions splatter themselves over some very unique geology here in Georgia Strait. Their haulouts provide a perfect vantage point for us to both view and smell their courting behaviors - for better or for worse!
Transient Killer Whales - Orca - also known as Biggs, occasionally visit Malaspina straight in their terminally effective hunting parties. These elite predators are tough to find but a sight to behold when seen.
Our goal on these trips is to entertain and educate you about the incredible story of this land while we search for a vast diversity of wildlife that call these waters home. I'll teach you everything I know about this coast - how to read the waters, how to read the mind of whale, and how to fall in love with the tapestry of life we're exploring. The Whales, Sea Lions, River Otters, Seals, Eagles, Vultures, Moon Jellies and more make every tour a new adventure.
Come aboard the Black Barnacle and let's explore together.
More info
Check in time is 30 minutes before departure
What to bring
- Dress warmly. Long pants, long sleeve sweatshirt, light jacket, enclosed shoes, toque
- Sunglasses & Sunscreen
- Camera and Binoculars if you have them!
Adventure Tips
Dress in Layers
Coastal weather can shift quickly; wear layers to stay warm and dry throughout your tour.
Bring Binoculars and Camera
To fully experience wildlife sightings like whales and sea lions, bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to receive your briefing and board comfortably.
Prepare for Limited Cell Service
Cell reception is spotty on the water, so download maps or contact info ahead of time.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales
- Northern Steller sea lions
History
The Salish Sea’s waters have sustained Coast Salish peoples for thousands of years and remain central to their culture.
Conservation
Rugged Coast Expeditions follows strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to wildlife and promotes local marine conservation initiatives.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Powell River, BC
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from the coastal mist and occasional rain on the water.
fall specific
Binoculars
Great for close-up wildlife viewing beyond the boat.
Sunglasses
Reduces glare reflecting off the water on bright days.
summer specific
Warm Hat or Toque
Keeps you warm during chilly mornings or colder seasons.
winter specific