Campbell River Whale Watching: Full Day Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound Tour

Embark on a full day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound, home to migratory Humpback Whales, Transient Orca, Steller sea lions, and more!

Duration: 8 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • 1348 Island Hwy - Once aboard our large 12 passenger zodiacs, you will be in for a full day immersion in an extraordinary setting as we adventure up Coastal Mountain Fjords, through tidal rapids and island archipelagos in search of the great whales of the Pacific Northwest!

These adventures give us the opportunity to really explore the waterways and micro-habitats in search of all kinds of cetaceans:
Migratory Humpback Whales, known for their acrobat tendencies, and Orca Whales, which can be one of two ecotypes in our area. Biggs (mammal eating culture) or Residents (salmon eating culture).
In our travels we can at any time encounter Eagles, Harbour Seals, Steller sea lions, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Dalls and Harbour Porpoises. With a keen eye on the shore line, there is hope to see Grizzly and Black Bears foraging in the intertidal zone.

Half way through our tour, we will stop at any one of the many islands near by for lunch. This can be a picnic spot on a private beach, or a stop at a public dock with shoreside amenities and shops.

A local farm to table lunch is provided, as well snacks and hot beverages throughout the tour. Washroom breaks are frequent, quick and convenient.

What's Included
  • Lunch included
  • Complimentary bottled water
  • Assorted snacks provided
  • Tea and coffee available
Additional Information

Join us for a full day adventure in the Discovery Islands and Desolation Sound in one of the richest marine environments on the planet!

Shortly after departing, we will travel through prime feeding grounds of migratory Humpback Whales. Encounters are likely and plentiful. These giants can weigh over 60 tons!

Clans of Transient Orca are constantly on the move, often spending long periods of time foraging throughout the endless shorelines and Coast Mountain fjords. In their search of prey such as harbour seals, sea lions and porpoises, we have the chance to encounter and witness the skill and intelligence of these incredible animals thrive in their vast ocean world.

The Discovery Islands interconnected waterways have world renowned tidal rapids that create an abundance of nutrients. Steller sea lions feeding by the dozen, Harbour Seals, Pacific white-sided dolphins and large congregations of Bald Eagles and gulls take part in the ebb and flow.

  • Traveller name, height & weights needed and for children name, age, height & weight
  • We have a minimum of 4 guests required to run a tour, if a tour does not reach our minimum we will contact the guests to rebook or refund.
Location
730 Quathiaski Cove Rd
Quathiaski Cove Road
Meet our vessel at the loading dock at the Quathiaski Cove Ferry Terminal on Quadra Island at Coveside Fish and Chips at the marina. Marina parking is $4 for the day.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(44 Ratings)
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Lightpacker585685
Sep 24, 2024
Amazing Nature, Knowledgable and Kind Guide - How lucky we were that there were a number of Humpback whales feeding in the area. It was a treat to see mothers and calves, whales diving deep with the flukes slowing descending, moving along the rocky coastline to feed, rolling to show their massive pectoral fins, and more. Seeing the Stellar sea lions feast on salmon in the tidal rapids was extraordinary. Jen's knowledge about the animals and skills in handling the zodiac enriched the experience. As we live here, we particularly appreciated her respect for nature and local sourcing for the delicious lunch. We plan to return with future visitors - no matter what wildlife is around, the experience deepens appreciation for it and the beauty of this area.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Travel819261
Sep 22, 2024
Great adventure day - We took the Tree of Life adventure for the day. After enjoying and exploring the area in the zodiac boat, we went on the" Tree of Life" Hike. This was an interpretive hike in the most magical forest. We learned a lot about the ecosystem in this beautiful area. The guide Jenefer is verry passionate and knowledgeable about all forest related, whether the animals we may find there, medicinal plants, herbs, fungi and of course about this beautiful old growth forest. Wonderful way to visit and learn about the area. I would recommend this hike, this whole trip to anyone and i would take it again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
K7407igelizabeths
Sep 10, 2024
Trip of a lifetime - Reuben is amazing! You can tell he loves the animals. Comfortable ride and amazing views. Lunch was delicious. Don’t pass this opportunity up!
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F2505pjmariac
Sep 5, 2024
A Memorable Family Adventure - We went on a private, full-day tour with two families, including four children aged 10 to 12. The experience was exceptional! Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and shared fascinating insights about the local wildlife and ocean. She was engaging, making the tour enjoyable for both adults and kids. The children were captivated by the experience, and we now cherish unforgettable memories with sea lions, diving sea eagles, jumping humpback whales, orcas, and salmon. I can only recommend to book a tour with them. We will not doubt it for our next time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Helensm6580ll
Sep 4, 2024
Another amazing trip with Reuben - We have been out with Wild Waterways multiple times, but this time we were taking a friend on their first trip. Reuben is an exemplary guide. He grew up fishing in this area, so he has extensive knowledge of the geography, and the wildlife and their habits. In addition, he radiates joy in the environment, and a genuine enthusiasm for sharing it with his passengers. We always see wonderful things and go to exciting new places with Reuben. This trip was no exception. Lots of Humpbacks, two groups of orca, sea lions and seals, gorgeous scenery, and a lovely lunch at Refuge Cove - a new destination for me. 8 hours totally flies by! Please remember to bring a few dollars to tip you guide - Jen or Reuben - because you will *definitely* want to show your appreciation at the end of your adventure.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Vickytq3362cx
Sep 3, 2024
Amazing day on the water! - We had an incredible experience with Wild Waterways Adventures yesterday, thanks to our fantastic captain, Reuben! His expertise and deep knowledge made the trip truly memorable. We were thrilled to see humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, harbor seals and many more, and Reuben shared fascinating insights about the area's wildlife and ecosystem. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to observe and learn about the diverse animals around the island. I highly recommend Wild Waterways Adventures for anyone looking for an unforgettable wildlife tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
664nicolaw
Aug 27, 2024
Fantastic experience. - We booked a full days whale watching and had the most fantastic day. We went out with Sienna who was really knowledgeable and could recognise many of the whales. The boat was brilliant and we covered 160km on a really comfortable open top James Bond style fast boat. We saw so many hump back whales and Killer whales but also a sea otter and seals. We were surprised that lunch was included, which was delicious. There was only 6 of us on the boat which was brilliant. This company is highly professional and you’ll certainly have an amazing day out.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ginny
Aug 24, 2024
When the whales some to see YOU! - Jen and Ruben run a fantastic operation! They are professional, knowledgeable, fun, and extremely conscientious! I’ve taken multiple trips with them and every one has been fantastic! I’d give 10 stars if I could!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Patrick
Aug 21, 2024
Great experience!! - It was an amazing tour we got to see whales, Orcas, sea lions, seals and more. Friendly knowledgeable guide. 100 would recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dannys598
Aug 16, 2024
A fantastic day on the water - It was a truly relaxed but fantastic day! We saw all the things we wanted to see!! Great team! Jen as a guide was truly amazing
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up to 11 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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