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
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
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 7:30 am
9 to 10 Hour Tour
June 7, 21, July 5, 19, and August 2, 2025
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
8 to 10 Hour Tour
June 8 and 22
Port Hardy Whale Watching and Sea Otter Viewing Tours
We are located in Port Hardy at the north end of Vancouver Island.
Whales and landscapes! It’s getting to be about that time where you should be thinking about booking your experiences on the north Island. Check out our website to find different options on how you can get out on the water with us! #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #gonorthisland #wildlifeplanet #indigenousbc #explorebc
The Humpback we call Celly spotted in the territory this past season. Humpback whales have made leaps towards reestablishing their presence in our traditional areas. The connection to these gentle giants have been made for millennia and we are grateful to keep this going! #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #humpbackwhale 🐋 #gonorthisland #indigenousbc #indigenoustourism
Otters, whales, and wolves. Oh my!
Gift certificates are available on our website. Link in bio.
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#whalewatching #seaotter #orca #humpbackwhale #wolf #puffin #wildlife #gonorthisland #indigenousbc
Photography Tours in the Great Bear Rainforest
The Great Bear Rainforest is a paradise for photography enthusiasts. This remote, lush region offers opportunities to capture stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and cultural stories. With its ancient cedars, mist-shrouded fjords, and glassy waters, every frame tells a story of untouched wilderness. Photography tours often focus on intimate encounters with humpback whales, orcas, grizzly bears, and coastal wolves, providing visitors with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to document these moments.
On a boat-based tour, the interplay of light and water often creates breathtaking compositions as humpbacks breach against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains or glide through calm seas. The silence and serenity of the rainforest amplify the beauty, enabling photographers to connect deeply with the environment.
These experiences aren’t just about capturing images—they’re about fostering a profound appreciation for this unique ecosystem. For many, these tours are transformative, as they combine the thrill of wildlife encounters with a growing understanding of the importance of conservation and stewardship of these precious lands and waters.
With skilled guides, such as those at Sea Wolf Adventures and Coastal Rainforest Safaris, guests not only leave with unforgettable photographs but also with a deeper connection to the natural and cultural heritage of the Great Bear Rainforest. #seawolfadventures #coastalrainforestsafaris #gonorthisland #explorebc #explorecanada #indigenousbc #goindigenous
It’s as simple as this: The overall impression is one of peace and tranquility, capturing a moment of serenity in the otter’s natural habitat! #seaotter #cuteness #otter #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #gonorthisland #vancouverisland #vancouverislandwildlife #indigenousbc #explorebc #explorecanada
The orca, known as max̱’inux̱w in the Kwakwa̱ka̱’wakw language, holds a profound place in the culture and traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw people of the Pacific Northwest. Revered as protectors of the ocean and messengers between realms, orcas are seen as kin to humans, embodying power, unity, and family bonds. Their graceful movements through the waters of the Great Bear Rainforest are a reminder of the interconnectedness between people, land, and sea. For the Kwakwaka’wakw, orcas are not just creatures of the ocean—they are ancestors and teachers, inspiring stories, songs, and art that continue to celebrate their significance. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #gonorth #gonorthisland #explorebc #indigenousbc #goindigenous #orca
Bald eagles are significant to the Kwakwaka’wakw people, symbolizing strength, leadership, and connection to the spiritual world. These majestic birds, with their striking white heads and powerful presence, are common in the Great Bear Rainforest. They are often depicted in Kwakwaka’wakw art and stories, embodying wisdom and respect for the natural world. Bald eagles play an essential role in the ecosystem, hunting fish and scavenging, and are viewed as vital to the balance of life in the territory. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #gonorthisland #vancouverislandlife
We are incredibly grateful for all of our friends and allies, both locally and from around the world, who supported us throughout this season. Sharing our traditional territories and the abundant wildlife that calls it home has been an honor. This year, we had the privilege of connecting with people from all walks of life, building lasting bonds while showcasing the beauty and significance of our land and waters. It was also a year of growth, as we focused on building capacity through training and empowering our local Indigenous community members. As we look back on this successful season, we reflect on the many memorable moments and look forward to continuing this journey together. Here are a few pictures that capture the spirit and adventure of this remarkable year and past years!
Humpback whales are a spectacular sight along the northern coast of Vancouver Island, where they are often seen feeding and breaching in the nutrient-rich waters. These majestic giants migrate to the region during the summer and fall months, drawn by the abundance of small fish and krill. Known for their acrobatic displays and distinctive tail flukes, humpbacks play a vital role in the marine ecosystem. Their presence in these waters is a testament to the rich biodiversity of the area, offering visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of one of the ocean’s most charismatic creatures. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #gonorthisland #explorebc #indigenousbc
Our beautiful scenery on the North Island is a testament to the deep connection and stewardship of the local First Nations. Each landscape tells a story, and our tours offer a unique opportunity to experience these landscapes through our paradigm. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #explorebc #explorecanada 📸 @westcoastlife
Living and working in rainforesty territory! The biodiversity of our area is beautiful that deserves our love and attention! If we look after the land and waters; the land and waters will look after us. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #rainforests #biodiversity
It’s going to be humpback city pretty soon; there’s already been amazing sightings! Looking forward to hosting you all this season. #coastalrainforestsafaris #crs #safetrueeducational #gonorthisland #explorebc #explorecanada #humpbackwhales #humpbackwhale 📸 @taylormichaelburk