Vancouver Island: Bears and Whales

Upon arrival at Campbell River Airport (YBL), a shuttle will be waiting to take you to our hotel. Campbell River, located on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is known as the “Salmon Capital of the World.” This charming city offers stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Nestled between the ocean and mountains, it serves as a gateway to some of Vancouver Island’s most spectacular landscapes and wildlife experiences.

Should you arrive early enough, go on a hike or biking adventure. Campbell River is surrounded by numerous trails that cater to all levels of hikers and bikers. The Beaver Lodge Forest Lands, Ripple Rock Trail, and the Campbell River Greenways Loop are popular choices for outdoor enthusiasts. Just a short drive from downtown, Elk Falls Provincial Park offers beautiful hiking trails, a suspension bridge with stunning views of Elk Falls, and picnic areas. The park is especially popular for its scenic waterfalls and lush forest setting.

This evening, we’ll find a spot to enjoy dinner. The city has a range of restaurants and cafes that feature local seafood, including salmon, halibut, and shellfish. The Fisherman’s Wharf is a great spot to sample fresh seafood and enjoy waterfront dining. 

After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your first venture into the wilderness will be a motorized boat wildlife tour. Enjoy a full day tour on a Zodiac or high-speed covered boat into the Orford River Valley. Once you arrive, the Holmalco First Nation will invite you onto their traditional territory. Climbing up onto their bear viewing platforms, you will have an unobstructed view of Grizzly Bears as they roam the river banks and feed on spawning salmon.

This morning, we’ll be picked up by water taxi at the Discovery Harbour Marina, a short 10-minute walk from our hotel, for the start of our adventure. Your expert guide will brief you about the boat ride to camp and we’ll have a 2.5 hour journey that passes through the Discovery Passage and the infamous ‘Seymour Narrow’. Sightings of porpoises, dolphins, and whales are common even before reaching camp. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by camp staff and settle into your wilderness accommodations. An afternoon kayak orientation will prepare you for your first paddle on this tour.

A full day of exploration along the coast in your kayak awaits. While you paddle in killer whale territory listening for orca blows, your guides will provide details about the resurgence of wildlife in this remote part of the coast as well as the ongoing threats to this critical habitat. Not only is being on the water spectacular, but you will also venture inland to a beautiful waterfall where the brave can go for a dip in the glacial waters.

It’s time to venture across Johnstone Strait to the island opposite the camp. Kayaking along the shores, we will keep a lookout for bears and cubs that often forage on the beach. After the day’s paddling adventures, we’ll return to enjoy a native sauna and hot tub, a great end to a fantastic day.

This morning, we’ll have one last chance for Orca sightings during our sunrise paddle. Soak up the final moments of your wilderness adventure while hanging on the beach awaiting the water taxi. You’ll arrive back at the Discover Harbor Marina between 3:30 – 5:30pm. 

This evening, enjoy some free time, and if there’s time, visit the local museum that offers a fascinating look into the region’s history, including First Nations culture, early European settlers, and the fishing and logging industries that shaped the area. 

This morning, we’ll say goodbye to our new friends and, at the appropriate time, take the shuttle back to the airport for our return flight home or to your next destination.