Cruise through Desolation Sound and the Discovery Islands on a private historic boat tour. Discover charming stops, stunning scenery, and captivating stories from BC’s rich maritime past.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as most activity involves sitting and short walks at stops.
Wildlife
History
Campbell River’s maritime heritage includes its role as a logging hub and a gateway to coastal exploration.
Conservation
Efforts are in place to protect sensitive marine habitats by promoting sustainable boating practices and limiting ecological impact.
Campbell River Adventure Tours
Cruise through Desolation Sound and the Discovery Islands on a private historic boat tour. Discover charming stops, stunning scenery, and captivating stories from BC’s rich maritime past.
Campbell River Adventure Tours operates from Campbell River, British Columbia, offering guided marine and wildlife excursions throughout the Salish Sea, Discovery Islands, Toba Inlet and Bute Inlet. The company specializes in whale watching, grizzly and black bear viewing, guided salmon fishing charters, and combined kayaking and whale watching adventures. Tours range from focused four-hour zodiac outings to full-day seven- to eight-hour covered boat trips and multi-hour fishing charters with options for five- or eight-hour excursions.
Guides include local and Indigenous experts who lead grizzly viewing on Toba Inlet platforms and Homalco First Nation–guided visits to Orford River in Bute Inlet. Safety and comfort are emphasized with covered boats for longer trips, provided gear on wildlife zodiacs, and included meals on select full-day departures. Fishing charters are led by experienced captains with over 20 years of salmon fishing expertise.
Each tour concentrates on responsible wildlife viewing, following regional best practices while maximizing time in key habitats for humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, and salmon runs. The Spring Bear and Waterfall Tour highlights coastal waterfalls, early-season humpback sightings, and black bear foraging along the shoreline. Grizzly tours present opportunities to observe adult bears and cubs from purpose-built viewing areas.
Campbell River Adventure Tours markets these locally guided experiences to visitors seeking immersive wildlife encounters and coastal exploration departing from Campbell River.
Location
Campbell River, BC
Serving Campbell River and Discovery Islands
Trip Lengths
4–8+ hours
Half-day to full-day tours
Guided By
Local & Indigenous guides
Homalco and Indigenous experts lead
Wildlife Focus
Whales, Bears, Salmon, Seals
Whale watching, grizzly viewing, fishing
Secure a spot on whale watching, grizzly viewing or fishing charters — limited capacity on zodiac and full-day trips.
Bring layered clothing
Weather can change quickly on the water, so dress in layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Secure your belongings
Keep cameras and phones secured with straps to avoid accidental drops into the water.
Pack biodegradable sunscreen
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine ecosystems during your boat tour.
Stay hydrated
Bring a reusable water bottle to keep hydrated, especially on sunny days.
Waterproof jacket
Protects against rain and wind in changing weather conditions.
spring
Hat with brim
Provides sun protection during long hours on the water.
summer
Comfortable non-slip shoes
Ensures safety and comfort while boarding and exploring stops.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife watching and scenic viewing opportunities.