Campbell River’s top tours deliver wildlife encounters that will stay with you for years. The Zodiac and covered boat whale-watching excursions get you thrillingly close to orcas and humpbacks, while offering better value than similar tours in Victoria. The region’s grizzly bear tours are simply spectacular – watching these massive creatures fish for salmon is an absolute highlight of Vancouver Island wildlife viewing.
Kayaking tours stand out for their intimacy with nature, letting you quietly glide past seals and eagles. The combination wildlife tours are smartly organized, maximizing your chances of seeing multiple species in a single outing.
Check out these top-rated Campbell River tours, each personally tested and carefully selected.
Key Points
- The top-rated whale-watching tours in Campbell River offer excursions ranging from 6 to 8 hours, with a 99.9% success rate of spotting whales like orcas and humpbacks.
- Grizzly bear watching tours in the Toba Inlet and Bute Inlet areas provide opportunities to observe bears during the salmon run, led by knowledgeable indigenous guides.
- Wildlife viewing tours via covered boats or Zodiac-style boats allow for sightings of orcas, minke whales, and dolphins, with live commentary from naturalist guides.
- Kayaking and whale watching tours combine half-day kayaking and half-day whale watching, with potential encounters with humpback whales, orcas, and bears.
- Many tours offer accessible amenities such as lunch, drinks, snacks, and wheelchair accessibility, though some have age restrictions for children.
Campbell River: Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour With Lunch
A premier whale watching experience awaits adventurers in Campbell River. The 6-hour Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch offers an exceptional opportunity to witness majestic marine life in their natural habitat. Priced from $209.20 per person, this tour promises a thrilling adventure with a 99.9% success rate for wildlife sightings.
Aboard the zodiac, guests can expect to encounter orcas, humpbacks, minke whales, and a variety of other marine creatures, including dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions.
The educational component of the tour, with live commentary from nature or biology specialists and the use of a hydrophone to listen to whale sounds underwater, enhances the overall experience.
The tour also includes a well-prepared lunch box, drinks, and snacks, as well as safety gear and onboard washrooms.
With a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a worry-free booking experience. Suitable for participants aged 5 and above, the Whale Watching Zodiac Boat Tour with Lunch in Campbell River is a must-try for nature enthusiasts.
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Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour
Though nestled along the stunning coastline of Vancouver Island, Campbell River offers more than just breathtaking scenery.
The Campbell River: Whale Watching and Wildlife Viewing Day Tour provides an opportunity to explore the region’s diverse marine life. Priced at $269.22 per person, this 8-hour excursion takes visitors on a journey through the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait, where they can spot orcas, humpback whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, bears, and sea lions.
Led by certified naturalist guides, the tour offers nature interpretation and the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Participants can choose between a covered vessel with indoor seating and outdoor viewing, or a Zodiac-style boat for a more thrilling experience.
The tour includes snacks, onboard washrooms, and even a floatation suit for the Zodiac. With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 14 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the wildlife of Campbell River.
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Campbell River: Whale Watching Covered Boat Tour With Lunch
Departing from the Discovery Marina in Campbell River, the Campbell River: Whale Watching Covered Boat Tour With Lunch provides a 6-hour excursion through the stunning Discovery Islands.
With a 99.9% chance of whale sightings, this tour offers the opportunity to spot a variety of marine life, including orcas, humpbacks, gray whales, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, seals, and sea lions.
The covered boat ensures weather protection, and the onboard facilities, including washrooms, make the experience comfortable. The tour includes a delicious lunch, snacks, and drinks, as well as the use of a hydrophone to listen to the whales’ conversations.
A naturalist or biologist specialist provides live commentary, sharing their expertise on the local wildlife and the region’s history. This whale watching tour is wheelchair accessible, though it’s not recommended for children under 5 years old.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable encounter with the incredible marine life of Campbell River.
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Campbell River: Grizzly Bear-Watching Tour With Lunch
Exploring the rich wildlife of Campbell River’s Homalco First Nation territory, the Grizzly Bear-Watching Tour with Lunch offers an immersive experience to witness the majestic grizzly bears during the salmon run.
Priced from $427.43 per person, this 8.5-hour small-group tour provides the opportunity to observe bears feasting on salmon, as well as spot humpback whales, sea lions, and bald eagles.
Indigenous guides share their knowledge of local culture, history, and ecology, highlighting the relationship between the Homalco people and the grizzly bears. Participants visit raised viewing platforms and prime ground locations to gain insights into the bears’ natural behaviors and habitat.
A tasty sandwich lunch is served at the picturesque Orford Bay, complemented by snacks and drinks.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, those with back problems, or wheelchair users, and all participants aged 10-17 must be accompanied by an adult.
With a flexible cancellation policy and routes that may change due to weather, this tour supports bear conservation and cultural initiatives for the Homalco people.
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Vancouver Island: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet
The Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour at Toba Inlet on Vancouver Island offers an immersive wildlife experience where participants can witness the majestic grizzly bears in their natural habitat.
Priced at €473.85 per person, the 9.5-hour tour includes a scenic ride through Discovery Passage to Toba Inlet, 3 hours of bear spotting along Campbell River, and up-close views of grizzly bears and other wildlife.
A Klahoose First Nation guide and certified naturalist captain provide insightful commentary on the local history and ecology.
The tour includes a lunch and hotel pickup and drop-off. Participants should come prepared with suitable hiking shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, and a reusable water bottle.
The experience isn’t recommended for children under 10 years old. While some customers have had magical wildlife sightings, others have reported limited bear visibility.
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Campbell River: Scenic Sunset Tour By Boat
Campbell River’s Scenic Sunset Tour By Boat takes adventurers on a captivating 2-hour journey to witness the region’s diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty at dusk.
Departing from the Coast Marina, the tour offers a choice between a zodiac or covered boat, ensuring comfortable exploration of the area. Along the way, guests can spot orcas, whales, dolphins, and sea lions in their natural habitats.
The highlight is undoubtedly the breathtaking West Coast sunset, which can be captured through stunning photographs. Priced at Kč 2,617 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and led by a live English-speaking guide.
Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Whether seeking an unforgettable wildlife encounter or a picturesque coastal experience, the Scenic Sunset Tour By Boat is a must-do activity in Campbell River.
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Campbell River: Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour
For those seeking an immersive wildlife experience, the Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour in Campbell River delivers an unparalleled opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Priced at $458.14 per person, the 7.5-hour tour offers a small-group setting limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate encounter. The scenic boat ride along Toba Inlet treats guests to breathtaking views of British Columbia’s rugged coastline, with the chance to spot marine life along the way.
Upon arrival at the bear viewing areas, visitors will be greeted by four new platforms, providing excellent vantage points to observe the grizzlies as they forage for salmon. An onboard naturalist/biology specialist offers educational insights, enhancing the overall experience.
Included in the tour are lunch, drinks, and snacks, along with necessary gear like gloves, hats, and survival suits. With an outstanding 4.6/5 rating based on 17 reviews, this tour is suitable for all traveler types, including families and pregnant women.
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Campbell River: 6-Hour Whale Watching Boat Tour
Embarking on a 6-hour whale watching adventure, visitors can expect an immersive encounter with the marine life of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait.
Priced from $228.55 per person, this tour offers the chance to spot humpback whales, killer whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, bears, and Steller sea lions.
Departing from Campbell River Whale Watching and Adventure Tours, the tour is led by a certified Naturalist Guide and Captain, who provide insightful nature interpretation.
Onboard hydrophones allow guests to listen to whale vocalizations, while the scenic journey through narrow passages promises breathtaking views.
Lunch, featuring wraps, homemade baked goods, granola bars, and beverages, is served onshore.
With a flexible booking policy, free cancellation, and a maximum group size of 12, this whale watching experience caters to private groups.
Rated 4.8/5 based on 37 reviews, the tour is praised for its exciting adventures, excellent guides, and commitment to wildlife protection.
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Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride
Visitors seeking a captivating exploration of Campbell River’s natural wonders can embark on the Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride. This 9-hour excursion offers a chance to observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat and witness the region’s diverse marine life.
The tour begins with a 3-hour boat cruise for whale watching and marine life encounters. Guests then enjoy a 30-minute lunch in the Orford River Valley before embarking on a 3-hour guided land tour with the opportunity to view grizzly bears from specialized platforms. The return boat cruise completes the journey.
Throughout the day, you will be captivated by the scenic beauty of the Discovery Islands and Bute Inlet. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides and includes coffee, hot chocolate, and tea, as well as a light snack and lunch.
With an overall rating of 5/5 based on 46 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in Campbell River.
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Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat
The Campbell River: Wildlife Tour by Covered Boat offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the diverse marine life and stunning scenery of the Discovery Passage. Priced from $170.84 per person, this 4-hour wildlife tour promises thrilling encounters with orcas, minke whales, dolphins, and more.
Guests will travel through the region’s waterways on a covered boat, protected from the elements, and enjoy live commentary from a nature specialist. The tour features a hydrophone to listen to whale sounds, as well as onboard amenities like gloves, hats, and refreshments.
While not suitable for young children, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and all guests must sign a waiver prior to departure. With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from 10 reviews, this wildlife adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Campbell River.
Reservations can be made with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Campbell River: Kayaking and Whale Watching Tour
For nature enthusiasts seeking a more immersive experience, the Campbell River: Kayaking and Whale Watching Tour provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the region’s diverse marine wildlife.
Priced from Kč8,338 per person, this 9-hour tour combines a half-day of remote wilderness kayaking with a half-day whale watching excursion aboard the covered vessel Wild 1.
Suitable for all experience levels, the tour boasts a 4.8/5 rating based on 5 reviews, with the potential to encounter humpback whales, orcas, dolphins, seals, and bears.
With a minimum of 5 participants required, the tour includes transportation, qualified guides, safety equipment, and lunch.
While fully refundable up to 48 hours in advance, the tour may be cancelled due to adverse weather conditions.
Participants are advised to bring warm clothing and a camera, as the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or individuals with mobility impairments.
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Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour
Embarking on the Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s breathtaking natural wonders. Priced from $149.93 per person, this 4-hour excursion offers the chance to encounter a diverse array of marine life, including orcas, minke whales, and even bears.
Navigating the ocean rapids of Devils Hole and Aaron Rapids, guests will be accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist/biologist guide who provides live commentary on the local history and wildlife.
The tour includes the use of a hydrophone to listen to the whales, as well as provided gear like gloves, hats, and survival suits. With a rating of 4.8/5 from 40 reviews, the tour is praised for its transportation, value, and unforgettable wildlife sightings, though some guests have requested longer viewing times.
Suitable for ages 5 and up, the Campbell River: Discovery Passage Wildlife Zodiac Boat Tour offers an immersive and educational experience in the heart of British Columbia’s coastal wilderness.
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Campbell River: Waterfall and Wildlife Guided Boat Tour
Exploring Campbell River’s natural wonders takes on an enchanting new dimension with the Campbell River: Spring Bears and Waterfalls Guided Boat Tour. This 6-hour excursion offers the chance to witness the region’s captivating wildlife and stunning landscapes as nature awakens in spring.
Aboard a custom-built vessel with ample deck space, participants can spot bears foraging along the coastline, as well as orcas and humpback whales drawn to the annual herring spawn. The tour includes a visit to picturesque waterfalls and a land-based stop for a homemade packed lunch.
With a maximum of 8 participants, the guided experience ensures an intimate and personalized adventure. Positive reviews highlight the tour’s excellent organization, beautiful scenery, and knowledgeable guides.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an immersive outdoor experience, this boat tour promises to deliver unforgettable memories in the heart of Campbell River.
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The Sum Up
Campbell River offers a variety of exciting tours that allow visitors to explore the area’s natural wonders. From whale watching and grizzly bear viewing to kayaking and wildlife spotting, there’s something for all. Whether you prefer a covered boat or a more adventurous zodiac, these tours provide an unforgettable opportunity to learn about the stunning landscapes and diverse marine life of Vancouver Island.