Coastal Rainforest Safaris - Whale Watching and Wildife Viewing Tours
Join us for an unforgettable journey exploring the wildlife-abundant waters, islands, and shores of northern Vancouver Island and the adjacent Great Bear Rainforest on Canada’s rugged West Coast. Our tours are deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the Kwakwaka’wakw people. More than just wildlife sightings, we offer a profound exploration of the land, sea, and enduring indigenous traditions that have thrived here since time immemorial.
Departing from Port Hardy on northern Vancouver Island, our tours are conducted aboard our custom-made rigid hull inflatable boats (RHIBs), designed to navigate the rugged and untamed coastal waters in comfort. Each excursion offers a deep dive into the natural habitats of British Columbia’s varied wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Every adventure presents opportunities to witness majestic humpback whales, playful sea otters, vast colonies of Steller sea lions, perhaps even the rare sight of an elusive coastal wolf, among other wildlife. These waters are not just a habitat for a variety of species; they are a vibrant tableau reflecting the rich traditions of the local First Nations.
At Coastal Rainforest Safaris, authenticity is more than a philosophy—it’s the foundation of everything we do. We take pride in assembling a team that has deep roots in the territories we visit, offering our guests authentic insights into the local history and culture. Our dedication to genuine experiences ensures that each tour is not only enjoyable but also profoundly enriching.
Join us on an unforgettable journey through the wildlife-rich waters, islands, and shores off the northern edge of Vancouver Island. Our Sea Otter Viewing and Whale Watching tour is more than just a trip; it’s an immersive exploration into the essence of nature’s unmatched splendor, guided by the timeless rhythms of the sea and the gentle whispers of the cedar forests.
Departs daily at 10:00 am
From May 30 to October 4, 2026
Embark on an extraordinary getaway to Vancouver Island North with Coastal Rainforest Safaris, Sea Wolf Adventures, and the Kwa’lilas Hotel. Our exclusive package marries exhilarating wildlife encounters with the comfort of premier accommodations, creating a deeply enriching experience that connects you with the natural world. This unforgettable journey promises not just sights, but memories that will last a lifetime.
Two night packages
From May 30 to October 4, 2026
Our four day journey takes us through stunning island passages, ancient rainforests, remote inlets, and open ocean, exploring a variety of marine habitats. We’ll search for sea otters, humpback whales, orcas, minke whales, Steller sea lions, and — if we’re fortunate — rarer marine species and terrestrial mammals. Early September often offers the most diverse wildlife viewing of the season, as many species are actively feeding, migrating, or preparing for seasonal transitions.
Four Days and Five Nights
September 6 to 10, 2026
September 13 to 17, 2026
The remote islands we explore on our Puffin and Seabird tours, off the northern tip of Vancouver Island—traditionally known in Kwak̓wala as Wa̱di and Hiładi—host the highest concentration of breeding seabirds on Canada’s west coast. The surrounding waters are incredibly rich, offering ideal feeding grounds for numerous species. Due to their ecological significance, these islands have been designated as an internationally recognized Important Bird Area.
Departs at 7:00 am
10 Hour Tour
June 6, 20, July 4, 18, 25, 2026
This is a special exploratory tour to the water surrounding the undersea canyons off Quatsino Sound off the west coast of Vancouver Island. We search for a myriad of pelagic bird species like Pink-footed, Sooty, and Short-tailed shearwaters, Fork-tailed and Leach’s storm petrels, Parasitic, Pomarine, and Long-tailed jaegers, Northern fulmars, and Black-footed albatross. These offshore waters are also home to unique marine mammals, like Northern fur seals and Fin whales.
Departs at 7:30 am
10 Hour Tour
September 5 and 19, 2026
Port Hardy Whale Watching and Sea Otter Viewing Tours
We are located in Port Hardy at the north end of Vancouver Island.
![How many of these pelagic bird species can you identify?
*** 2026 Pelagic Birding Tour Dates Announced! ***
Looking to head offshore in search of rare seabirds and marine life? Join us for an unforgettable full-day Pelagic Birding Adventure departing Port Hardy on September 5 & 19, 2026.
We’ll explore along the continental shelf edge and deep offshore canyons where albatrosses, shearwaters, storm-petrels, jaegers, and whales are often spotted.
Departures are very limited — don’t miss your chance to experience one of Canada’s most unique birding expeditions!
🔗 Book now: [link in bio]
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