Tofino Bear Watching Tour - Cabin Cruiser
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Experience one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters on Vancouver Island with a Tofino Bear Watching Touraboard our heated cabin cruiser at The Whale Centre.
Cruise through the calm, sheltered inlets of Clayoquot Sound, where black bears roam the shoreline during low tide, searching for crabs, shellfish, and marine life along the rocky coast. From the comfort of our covered vessel, you’ll witness these powerful animals in their natural habitat — safely, ethically, and respectfully.
Spaces fill quickly during peak season. If you’re planning a trip to Tofino and want to experience authentic Vancouver Island wildlife, this is a must-do adventure.
BEAR WATCHING TOUR - CABIN CRUISER BOAT
Tour Duration: 2.5 Hours
Tour Rates:
Adult: $169 CAD
Senior (65+) & Youth (13–18): $159 CAD
Children (2–12): $139 CAD
Infants (0-2): Free
Private Charter (up to 12 guests): $1,800 CAD
What to Expect:
PFD’s and lifejackets for provided for safety, we suggest you wear warm layers on the boat
Check-in: 30 minutes before departure
No washroom on board
Prices do not include applicable taxes and fees
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.
On a bear watching tour with The Whale Centre, you’ll explore the remote inlets and shorelines of Clayoquot Sound near Tofino, where rich coastal ecosystems attract an incredible variety of wildlife. While black bears are the main highlight, many other species are often spotted along the way.
Tofino Wildlife Highlights
Black Bears – Frequently seen foraging along the shoreline, flipping rocks for crabs and shellfish
Bald Eagles – Often perched in tall trees or soaring overhead
Harbour Seals – Resting on rocks or swimming near the boat
Sea Otters – Floating in kelp beds (occasionally)
Great Blue Herons – Wading in quiet inlets
Note: Your experienced guide will help spot animals and share insights about their behaviour and habitat.
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:
Cabin Cruiser Boat: PFD’s and life jackets.
WHAT WILL WE SEE ON THE TOFINO WHALE TOUR:
Black bears, harbour seals, bald eagles, blue herons 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.
