THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience an unforgettable 2.5-hour boat tour with SLJ Charters in Tofino, where orcas, humpback whales, and stellar sea lions await in the Salish Sea. Explore wildlife up close while enjoying cultural stories from Captain Bert Tom.
Experience an unforgettable 2.5-hour boat tour with SLJ Charters in Tofino, where orcas, humpback whales, and stellar sea lions await in the Salish Sea. Explore wildlife up close while enjoying cultural stories from Captain Bert Tom.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by SLJ Charters · Tofino, British Columbia
easy.
2–3 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required aside from getting on/off the boat comfortably.
SLJ Charters follows strict wildlife viewing guidelines to maintain a safe and respectful distance while allowing excellent viewing opportunities.
Yes, children of all ages are welcome, but parental supervision is recommended due to the open water environment.
We recommend layered clothing, non-slip shoes, binoculars, and sunscreen depending on the season.
Some guests may experience seasickness; it's best to take preventative measures beforehand, and the crew can offer advice if needed.
Snacks and beverages are not typically provided, so guests may wish to bring their own water and light snacks.
Captain Bert Tom shares his Nuu-chah-nulth heritage, offering unique perspectives about the land, sea, and wildlife.
The Salish Sea has long been home to Indigenous peoples, including the Nuu-chah-nulth, whose traditions and stewardship continue to shape responsible marine tourism.
SLJ Charters operates with an emphasis on sustainable wildlife viewing, minimizing disturbances and supporting local marine conservation efforts.
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.
Book with SLJ Charters