Adventure Collective
Wildlife & Whale Watching with Jamie’s Ucluelet - Victoria

Wildlife & Whale Watching with Jamie’s Ucluelet

Uclueleteasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3-4 hours

Fitness Level

Open to all fitness levels; no physical exertion required beyond boarding the vessel.

Overview

Join Jamie’s Ucluelet for thrilling whale watching along Vancouver Island’s breathtaking coastline. Spot whales, seabirds, and other marine life on a comfortable vessel with expert guides.

Tofino, British Columbia

Ucluelet Whale Watching - Cabin Cruiser Tour

2.5-3 Hours • Family Friendly •

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About This Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable whale watching adventure with Jamie's, a trusted name since 1982. Experience the breathtaking Barkley Sound coastline while spotting Grey and Humpback Whales, along with diverse wildlife. Enjoy expert commentary, comfortable vessels, and a high success rate for sightings, ensuring a memorable day on the water.

Experience whales in their natural habitat on board one of our family-friendly vessels. High Success Rate!

Duration

Approximately 2.5-3 Hours

Tour length varies depending on sightings, weather, skipper discretion, and other factors.

About

Jamie's started offering whale watching tours back in 1982! Since then we've collected loads of experience on finding these giants based on common feeding grounds, travel patterns, and seasonal behaviours. Join us for an amazing experience in search of incredible wildlife combined with unforgettable views.

What You Will See

Enjoy the scenic views along the stunning coastline of Barkley Sound on our way to the common feeding areas of whales. Learn about the area’s fascinating ecosystems with our engaging naturalists while experiencing first-hand the natural characteristics of a wide variety of wildlife.

On our whale watching tours from Ucluelet, we commonly see Grey Whales & Humpback Whales. Beginning in late February, these whales start passing by our coastline as they migrate towards Alaska. Starting in May we see these whales settle into their feeding grounds around Ucluelet & Barkley Sound. These are the whales we most commonly see on our whale watching tours.

In addition to Grey Whales & Humpback Whales, the whales that we may also see on our tours include Transient (Bigg's) Killer Whales.

When we're not watching whales spouting, feeding, spy-hopping, and breaching we're spending time with other wildlife. On our whale watching tours, it is also common to see Sea Lions, Sea Otters, Seals, Eagles, and more!

Wildlife Viewing Guidelines & Expectations

While we love sharing the experience of watching whales and other wildlife with our guests, we also follow guidelines to ensure we're not encroaching on or disturbing the wildlife in its natural habitat.

Due to government regulations, we do not approach closer than 100 metres to all whales with the exception of Transient (Bigg's) Killer Whales which we do not approach closer than 200 metres. While we do not approach closer than the noted distances, occasionally, while our vessels are turned off, the whales get curious and approach our vessels. At this point, we will retreat to the noted distances when it is safe to do so.

Be sure to bring binoculars for close-up views of these amazing marine mammals.

Our Vessels: the Pacific Springs & Eagle 44

Travel in the comfort of one of our cabin cruisers, the Pacific Springs or Eagle 44.

Some features of the Pacific Springs and Eagle 44 include:

  • Full commentary by your skipper
  • Indoor heated seating
  • Open rear deck for wildlife viewing
  • Marine Toilet

Raincheck Guarantee

With almost 40 years of experience, we know where and how to find whales for you. We have a High Sightings Success Rate in finding whales on our tours.

If you join us on a Whale Watching tour and do not see a whale, we will provide you with a Raincheck Ticket, allowing you to join us on another tour - FREE of charge!

Guests using a Raincheck Ticket for Whale Watching tours:

  • Are able to join tours aboard our large cruiser vessels, or our open zodiac vessels, from either Tofino or Ucluelet.
  • Are on a stand-by basis, dependent on capacity levels.
  • Are able to confirm seats 60 minutes prior to departure.
  • Can not use a Raincheck Ticket for a Bear Watching or Hot Springs Cove tour.

Safety

At Jamie’s, the safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we have extensive training and vessel maintenance schedules in place and have made significant investments in ensuring we have safety and life-saving equipment on our vessels that not only meet, but exceed Transport Canada standards.

Before each tour, our crew will gather all guests for a safety briefing while also distributing Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) to each individual.

Adventure Tips

Dress for the weather

Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sunglasses to stay comfortable on the water.

Bring binoculars

Enhance your view of distant whales and seabirds with a good pair of binoculars.

Arrive early

Check-in beforehand to secure your spot and get oriented before departure.

Stay seated during the trip

For safety and optimal viewing, remain seated while the vessel is underway.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Sea lions
  • Bald eagles

History

Ucluelet was traditionally home to Indigenous Clayoquot communities, and the area has a rich maritime history dating back centuries.

Conservation

Jamie’s emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal disturbance to marine life and supporting local conservation efforts.

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Adventure Hotspots in Victoria

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layers

Essential

Layer up to stay warm in variable weather conditions on the water.

spring|fall|winter specific

Rain jacket

Essential

Keep dry in case of rain or wind during the trip.

spring|fall|winter specific

Sunscreen

Protect your skin from the sun during summer excursions.

summer specific

Camera with zoom lens

Capture memorable moments with clear photos of whales and scenery.

all specific