Tofino Bear Watching Tour - Open Boat
Tofino Bear Watching - Open Boat
Discover the thrill of a Tofino bear watching tour aboard our open zodiac boats in the pristine wilderness of Clayoquot Sound. Witness coastal black bears foraging along the shoreline, mothers with cubs, and a variety of coastal wildlife, all guided by experienced local captains who know the habits of these incredible animals.
Our open boat bear tours offer unobstructed views of the bears and surrounding rainforest, making it perfect for photographers, wildlife enthusiasts, and families. Tours run in small groups to ensure an intimate and responsible wildlife experience, keeping both guests and bears safe.
BEAR WATCHING TOUR - OPEN BOAT
Tour Rates:
Adult: $169
Senior (65+) & Youth (13–18): $159
Children (2–12): $149
Private Charter (up to 12 guests): $1,800
Tour Duration: 2.5 Hours
Tour Details:
Maximum 12 passengers for an intimate experience
Check-in: 30 minutes prior to departure
Departure times vary depending on tides
Prices do not include applicable taxes and fees
What You’ll See on a Tofino Bear Watching Tour
The remote inlets and estuaries surrounding Tofino are prime habitat for coastal black bears. In spring, summer, and fall, bears forage along the shoreline at low tide, turning over rocks in search of crabs and other intertidal food sources.
Common sightings include:
Black bears feeding along the shoreline
Mothers with cubs (seasonal)
Bald eagles perched in old-growth trees
Harbour seals resting on rocky outcrops
Great blue herons
Seabirds and shorebirds
Travelling quietly through the sheltered waters of Clayoquot Sound, you’ll witness wildlife in its natural habitat against a backdrop of ancient temperate rainforest and dramatic coastal scenery.
Why Choose The Whale Centre for Bear Watching in Tofino?
✔ Small group experiences
✔ Open boats for optimal wildlife viewing
✔ Transport Canada certified vessels
✔ Experienced, knowledgeable local crew
✔ Ethical wildlife viewing practices
✔ Breathtaking scenery of Clayoquot Sound
Our stable, open vessels allow for safe shoreline viewing while maintaining respectful distances from wildlife. With knowledgeable guides and years of experience navigating these remote inlets, we ensure a responsible, educational, and unforgettable bear watching experience.
WHAT TO BRING ON YOUR BEAR WATCHING TOUR:
Dress warmly in layers for the open boat (long sleeves, pants, fleece or sweater)
Rain gear (if it is raining)
Enclosed shoes (sandals not recommended)
Winter hat and gloves (early Spring / late Fall)
Binoculars
Camera
Drinking water
Sunglasses / sunscreen
Your sense of adventure!
WHAT IS INCLUDED:
Open Boat: Full Mustang Floater Suits (XS to XXXL) for your safety and protection from ocean spray & cool air.
WHAT WILL WE SEE ON THE TOFINO BEAR TOUR:
Black bears, harbour seals, blue herons, bald eagles and more!
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Please arrive 30 minutes before the tour’s departure time to be outfitted in floater suits and sign a waiver. At the office our team will provide a safety briefing plus an overview of the tour and area we will be exploring. The boat is docked a short one minute walk from our office.
Make sure you read & understand our booking policies and waiver terms before processing your reservation.
Read our cancellation policy and note we have a 48 hour policy to cancel.
These trips may not be suitable for people who are pregnant or with serious back or neck problems - please let us know at time of booking of any such conditions.
Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in. Participants must be 19 years of age or require a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.
An eco wildlife conservation fee of $3 will be added to each fare in support of maintaining the ecosystem in Clayoquot Sound.
Multi-tour discounts, $15 off second and additional tours, contact us to book your tours so you receive the discount.
Prices are subject to change.
Our vessels do not have washrooms on board.
We reserve the right to delay or cancel a departure if there are fewer than 4 guests reserved at the time of departure.
PREPARE FOR YOUR BEAR WATCHING TOUR
No food or beverages (other than water) is allowed on the boat during the Bear Watching Tour.
Guests are advised not to wear strong smelling deodorants, cologne or perfumes on the tour.
Noise and movement must be kept to a minimum aboard the vessels to not disturb the black bears.
Smoking or vaping is not permitted on the boat or in our safety gear at any time.
Please arrive to check in for your Tofino Bear Watching Tour no later than 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
Sighting Guarantee
Wildlife Sighting Guarantee – Whales & Bears
At The Whale Centre, we’re committed to giving you an unforgettable wildlife experience. That’s why we offer a Sighting Guarantee on all our whale and bear watching tours. If you don’t see a whale or a black bear on your trip, we’ll invite you back for a second tour, free of charge.
Nature is unpredictable—but we’ll always do our best to connect you with the incredible wildlife of Clayoquot Sound.
Come back as our guest if you miss a sighting—we want you to experience the magic.
Raincheck Terms:
Valid for the tour you had originally booked on
Can be used on our cruiser or open vessel tours from Tofino
Stand-by basis only (subject to availability)
Seats confirmed 60 minutes before departure
This offer is not transferable to another guest or tour and must be used by the guest that purchased the original tour
This offer is valid for life and does not expire
If you have any questions regarding the Raincheck policy please speak to any of our team members and we will do our very best to help.
Cancellation Policy
Need to cancel or reschedule – no problem! Just contact us at least 48 hours prior to your adventure’s departure to reschedule or to cancel (and receive a full refund), no questions asked.
MORE DETAILS:
For independent travel bookings of 9 passengers or less: 48 hours before scheduled departure, partial or whole cancellations made within 48 hours before departure will be charged 100% of the tour price. Tour amendments cannot be completed within a 48-hour window. There will be no refunds for cancellations within the cancellation period.
Private tours require 72 hours notice to cancel for a full refund.
Promotional or discounted bookings are non refundable.
BEST WAY TO CANCEL:
Call our office at 1-888-474-2288
