Discovery Passage Whale Watching
Sailing from the Campbell River harbor to watch orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and bald eagles in Discovery Passage and Johnstone Strait.
Discovery Passage is a narrow channel between Vancouver Island and the Discovery Islands, with swift currents and abundant fish. Orcas (both transient and northern resident types), humpback whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and sea lions often appear here. Many operators depart from the city harbor, taking enclosed boats or high-speed Zodiac rigid inflatables, which carry drysuits, north through Seymour Narrows to the Johnstone Strait area. Trips last 3 to 6 hours and cost about CAD 150 to 250 for adults. Some tours also include sightings of grizzly bears or visits to First Nations villages. Book in advance during peak season. It is windy and cool on the water, so bring a windbreaker even in summer, and those prone to seasickness should take medication beforehand.
Opening hours
Approx. May–Oct, per boat company schedules
Nearby sights
- Ripple Rock Trail & Seymour Narrows
- Quadra Island
- Elk Falls Provincial Park & Suspension Bridge
- Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park
- Discovery Pier
- Museum at Campbell River
- Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre
- Cape Mudge Lighthouse