About This Tour
Immerse yourself in BC's coastal wildlife as you travel through the gulf islands archipelago in search of killer whales (orcas), humpbacks, sea lions, porpoises, eagles, and more. Your guide has an academic background in biology and a passion for marine life! Whale sightings are guaranteed or your next trip is FREE. You'll cruise through the Salish Sea in comfort and style onboard Kula, our 12-passenger vessel. Kula offers covered seating with sliding windows at each seat and a large open deck at the back of the vessel that provides unobstructed views of scenery and wildlife.
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
Photo Gallery

We often see haul outs full of sea lions

Explore BC's beautiful coastal vistas!

Each saddle patch and eye patch is unique

Humpback whales have return to our coast each spring and stay until the late fall

Steller's sea lions are found in our waters over the winter and fall!

Sea lions rafting in the water
Final price may vary. Check availability for exact pricing.
TopTours Insights
Nanaimo Whale Watching in a Semi-Covered Boat
This 4-hour tour with Vancouver Island Whale Watch takes you out on a semi-covered boat for whale and wildlife viewing in the waters around Nanaimo. It's ideal for travelers seeking a balance of shelter and open-air viewing, suitable for couples or families who appreciate a more comfortable experience on the water.
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What's Included
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Additional Information
Meeting Point
Our office is located on Front Street on downtown Nanaimo's seawall.
Special Instructions
Please read the following carefully: Check-in is 45 minutes before your departure time and is mandatory for all passengers. We require a digital waiver form to be filled out by each guest before departure which will be available in our office. Minors waivers(18 years and younger) must be signed by a parent or guardian. If you require this waiver beforehand, please let us know. If there are any trip delays or cancellations due to sea conditions or low numbers, we will message you on the morning of your departure. If you will not have access to your email while you are in Nanaimo, please call after 8:00 am on the day of your trip to confirm your departure. We recommend that you bring the following: - Comfortable clothes and shoes (Please dress appropriately according to the weather) - Water - Sunglasses + sunscreen - Cameras and/or video equipment (we can provide dry storage on the boat, cases still recommended) - Motion sickness tablets if you are prone to seasickness. Note: Seasickness is generally not an issue on our tours as we travel in an inland sea and are within sight of land the entire tour - Cash if you feel inspired to tip your crew at the end of your tour We are located at the Harbourfront Walkway at 5-90 Front Street, along the seawall in Nanaimo BC. If you're driving to our office there is paid parking nearby at the Pioneer Waterfront Plaza and the Harbour Front Parkade. Maffeo Sutton Park is recommended for parking RVs and other taller vehicles and is about a 10-minute walk from our office. If you need detailed directions or any assistance with transportation, please contact us once you are in Nanaimo or visit us online at www.vancouverislandwhalewatch.com. We're looking forward to having you aboard! We have a high success rate in finding whales (over 90%!), and most of the whales we find are orca and/or humpbacks. But if you don't see a whale then your next trip is on us! Your free offer is non-transferable and never expires.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
✓ Free cancellation due to bad weather
Tour Operator
Vancouver Island Whale Watch
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Guest Ratings
Total review count and overall rating based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews
Based on 67 verified reviews
Average rating
Guest Reviews Preview
See what other travelers are saying about this experience
adventureJS
Jul 28, 2025
Amazing experience - once in a lifetime opportunity. Do not miss it!!
We booked this as part of our trip and have zero...
Read full reviewjoemcallister60
Jul 6, 2025
Epic Whale Watching trip
Amazing trip with Ally and Rodrigo as Captain....
Read full reviewCyndi L
Jul 1, 2025
AMAZING!!!
Our naturalist, Jordan, did a great job of...
Read full reviewI1342ABandyh
Jun 28, 2025
Spectacular trip observing breaching humpback whales, orcas, and harbor porpoises
This far exceeded my expectations and is the...
Read full reviewWander662753
Jun 9, 2025
Amazing orca experience
We had an absolutely incredible experience whale...
Read full reviewNote: If you click on "read full review" you will be directed to Viator's tour page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Nanaimo Whale Watching in a Semi-Covered Boat
Who operates this experience?
This experience is operated by Vancouver Island Whale Watch, a local water sports provider.
What's included?
This tour includes Toilets onboard, Binoculars onboard (shared between guests), and Sunscreen available. Additional amenities and services are included. All inclusions are provided by the tour operator.
How long is this tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you time to fully enjoy your chosen activity.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for a full refund. If weather conditions are unsafe, the tour may be canceled by the operator. In such cases, you'll be offered a refund or reschedule.
What should I bring?
We recommend bringing a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen. All necessary equipment is provided by the tour operator.
Will I receive instant confirmation?
Yes, you'll receive instant confirmation when you book.
Is this tour worth it?
Yes, this experience has a 4.8-star rating based on 67+ reviews, making it a highly rated option.
What to expect on this tour?
This water sports experience lasts approximately 4 hours and includes all necessary equipment and guidance. You'll have access to Toilets onboard and more.
What's the best time to do this tour?
Morning and early afternoon are typically the best times for water activities, as conditions are usually calmer and visibility is better.
Do I need to know how to swim?
Swimming ability requirements vary. Life jackets and safety equipment are provided. Please check the tour details or contact the operator if you have concerns about swimming requirements.
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