Private Whale Watching on Salish Sea with Vancouver Island Whale Watch
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be able to move safely on a boat deck and remain seated or standing for extended periods.
Overview
Step aboard Vancouver Island Whale Watch’s private charter and spend 3-5 hours tracking orcas and humpbacks in the Salish Sea. With a marine naturalist guiding the way, this personalized tour combines marine education with incredible wildlife viewing.
The Ultimate Freedom Tour (Private Charter) - Semi-Covered Boat
All Ages | 3-5 hours | Starting at $1699
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a personalized private whale-watching adventure with the Ultimate Freedom tour! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Salish Sea while learning about its unique ecosystem from a marine naturalist. With exclusive access to your own boat and crew, this unforgettable experience combines adventure, education, and conservation in stunning surroundings.
Rate
Private groups of up to 12 people
$1699 plus taxes and fees
Duration
- 3-5 Hours
About
Enjoy the whales, the breathtaking scenery, and the extra leg room! You’ll have the boat and crew all to yourself with our Ultimate Freedom private whale watching tour. If you’re looking for personalization, privacy, flexibility, and in-depth experiences, this tour is for you.
Perfect for: • Couples • Photographers • Groups of 2-12 people • Staff Outings
Your day begins by checking in at our office 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time. We’ll get you signed up, and you’ll head to the dock with your crew for your Ultimate Freedom whale watching adventure!
Once underway, your marine naturalist will introduce you to the Salish Sea ecosystem and wildlife as you cruise through the Gulf Islands archipelago in search of whales and other marine life. You'll learn about the different types of whales and other marine life that use the Salish Sea, including their natural history, and their roles in the marine food web.
You'll spend a full hour viewing whales, and your marine naturalist will provide real-time insights into their behaviors. Onboard catalogues are used to identify individual whales, and this data is collected throughout our whale watching season and sent to the Centre for Whale Research, Keta Coastal Conservation, and the BC Cetacean Sightings Network.
Your tour will wrap up with an educational lecture on marine conservation which focuses on BC whales, and conservation initiatives will be discussed.
We look forward to having you onboard!
*Tours are not suitable for pregnant women.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive 45 minutes before your tour to complete registration and meet your crew comfortably.
Bring Layers and Waterproof Gear
Salish Sea weather can shift—dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket to stay warm and dry.
Use Binoculars for Wildlife Spotting
While binoculars are provided, bringing your own helps ensure clear views of distant whales and sea life.
Charge Camera Batteries
You’ll want plenty of battery and storage space for photos; your naturalist also captures images to share after the tour.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Orcas
- Humpback whales
History
The Salish Sea’s waterways have supported Indigenous communities for millennia, with culturally significant whale species central to many local legends.
Conservation
Data collected during tours supports marine research and local conservation efforts focused on protecting whale populations and their habitat.
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Adventure Hotspots in Nanaimo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Keeps you dry and comfortable against wind and sea spray.
Binoculars
Enhances long-distance visibility of whales and seabirds.
Camera with Extra Batteries
Capture memorable moments and wildlife shots during your trip.
Layered Clothing
Provides adaptable comfort as temperatures fluctuate on the water.