Join SLJ Charters for a private boat tour from Tofino to Hot Springs Cove. Soak in natural geothermal pools while soaking up breathtaking coastal views and rich indigenous culture.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have moderate fitness to walk approximately 3 km on a trail with some uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Hot Springs Cove is a culturally significant site for the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations, used for centuries as a place for healing and community gathering.
Conservation
SLJ Charters practices eco-friendly tours that prioritize wildlife protection and promote Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
SLJ Charters
Join SLJ Charters for a private boat tour from Tofino to Hot Springs Cove. Soak in natural geothermal pools while soaking up breathtaking coastal views and rich indigenous culture.
SLJ Charters operates out of Tofino, British Columbia, offering guided boat tours that showcase local wildlife and Indigenous heritage. Led by Captain Bert Tom, a Nuu-chah-nulth elder, SLJ Charters combines marine wildlife viewing with cultural storytelling rooted in the Tla-o-qui-aht and Nuu-chah-nulth traditions. Trips focus on the Salish Sea and nearby coastal sites, including whale watching for orcas and humpbacks, visits to ancient village sites, inner-harbour exploration with bear watching opportunities, and full-day excursions to Hot Springs Cove.
Tours range from 2.5-hour wildlife and village experiences to 6.5-hour journeys to Hot Springs Cove. The whale watching and stellar sea lion boat tour highlights orca and humpback sightings and stellar sea lion viewing in the Salish Sea. The ancient village sites and inner harbour tour blends coastal swims, shoreline wildlife observation, and Indigenous history tied to the Tla-o-qui-aht. Hot Springs Cove trips include scenic coastal travel, wildlife spotting, and access to seven natural geothermal pools at the sacred Nuu-chah-nulth site.
SLJ Charters emphasizes respectful wildlife viewing and cultural context by integrating traditional storytelling and local knowledge into each outing. Operating from Tofino, the company serves visitors seeking nature-based adventure and meaningful engagement with Indigenous heritage. Safety, local expertise, and cultural respect are central to the experience, with Captain Bert Tom named as the guide whose heritage informs interpretation. SLJ Charters provides clear trip durations, site descriptions, and a range of tour options for travellers planning coastal adventures in west coast Vancouver Island waters. Bookings are available through SLJ Charters' contact channels.
Location
Tofino, BC
Operating in the Salish Sea
Trip Lengths
2.5–6.5 hrs
Short and full-day options
Indigenous Guide
Nuu-chah-nulth
Captain Bert Tom provides storytelling
Tours Offered
Whale, Village, Hot Springs
Wildlife and cultural focus
Book a 2.5-hour wildlife cruise or a 6.5-hour Hot Springs Cove adventure — limited spots with Indigenous-led interpretation.
Bring Water Shoes
Wear water shoes or sandals with grip for walking on wet rocks near the hot springs pools.
Pack Layers
Weather can change quickly along the coast, so bring layers to stay comfortable during the boat ride and hiking trail.
Respect Local Culture
Follow guidelines to preserve the sacred nature of Hot Springs Cove and avoid disturbing the environment or wildlife.
Bring a Camera
Capture stunning landscapes and wildlife along the boat ride and at the hot springs pools.
Water Shoes
Essential for safely navigating slippery rocks near the hot springs pools.
summer
Windproof Jacket
Protects against coastal winds and rain during the boat ride and trail walk.
fall
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Important for sun protection during long daylight hours on the water.
summer
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the boat trip and hike.