Best Whale Watching Tour in Victoria, BC (We Did it Twice!)
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We’ve lived in Victoria for years… and somehow never gone whale watching here. Crazy, right?
We’d done it in Hawaii. In Mexico too. And we just assumed Victoria couldn’t compete.
Then we finally went. Twice. And wow – were we ever wrong!
Here’s our experience, the tour we chose (and paid for ourselves both times) and why we think it’s the best whale watching tour in Victoria, BC.
Your cheat sheet
Just want a short answer to the best whale watching in Victoria, BC?
- Our tour pick – Victoria whale-and-wildlife cruise
- Prime season – May to October (95% chance of seeing whales)
- Duration – About 3½ hours
- Boat types – Open speedboat (what we chose) or larger catamaran (with outdoor and heated indoor viewing)
- Departs from – Fisherman’s Wharf (Inner Harbour)
- Rating – 4.9 out of 5 (recommended by 99% of travelers)
Fancy a Zodiac-style boat instead? See other top tours here.
Why whale watching from Victoria is special
Let’s start here. Victoria is one of the best places in Canada to see whales.
Located in British Columbia, it sits on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, right on the edge of the Salish Sea – with easy access to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Haro Strait. These are prime feeding and travel routes for whales.
We didn’t fully appreciate just how important that location is… until recently.
Location, location, location
Years ago, we went whale watching from Tofino on the island’s wild west coast. It was… underwhelming. We remember squinting at what looked like tiny flicks of whale tails way off in the distance, wondering if that was it.
That’s why we figured Victoria wouldn’t be any better.
But Victoria is different. Here, the waters are generally calm and sheltered, making it easier to both find whales and actually see them.
And this area is busy.
Orcas – especially transient (Bigg’s) orcas – travel these channels hunting seals. Humpbacks feed in these nutrient-rich waters.
In simple terms? There are whales here. Lots of them! And they don’t stay far away.
Whales and wildlife you see
It’s also not just about whales (though they’re the main event).
On a typical tour, you might see:
- Orcas (killer whales)
- Humpback whales
- Minke whales
- Gray whales (seasonal)
And there’s plenty more to keep your eyes busy:
- Sea lions (so many!)
- Seals, sea otters and porpoises
- Bald eagles and seabirds
In other words, even between whale sightings, there’s always something happening out on the water.
The tour we chose (and why)
After digging into tons of reviews and comparing options, we booked with Eagle Wing Tours.
Why them? A few things stood out right away:
- Award-winning operator – They’re Canada’s most decorated whale watching company and consistently rank #1 on TripAdvisor for outdoor and wildlife tours in Victoria.
- Locally owned and experienced – Family-run, they’ve been operating for 30+ years, so they really know these waters.
- Expert naturalist guide – You get engaging onboard commentary plus help spotting whales and marine life.
- Free professional photos – Tours include trip photos, so you can stay in the moment and focus on that tail splash instead of your camera.
- Rating – 4.9 out of 5 (recommended by 99% of travelers)
In short, they ticked all our boxes before we even stepped on the boat.
(It also didn’t hurt that they offered Victoria and Vancouver Island locals a 20% discount.)
Choice of boats
The company offers a choice of boats – and all come with hydrophones (so you can hear the whales) and a washroom onboard.
- Open speedboats (our pick) – These are smaller and faster. We chose this option both times for the full experience – wind in our face and nothing between us and the whales. (Your guide doubles as the photographer.)
- Larger semi-covered power catamarans – They offer a more comfortable ride, with a heated indoor cabin, outdoor viewing decks and two proper washrooms. Tours on these boats also come with a dedicated wildlife photographer (so you get a full photo package) and a separate naturalist guide.
More reasons to like this adventure
We also learned a few more things on our tours that made us feel even better about our choice.
- They run ocean education programs – Each year, Eagle Wing takes thousands of local high-school students out on the water (for free) to learn about marine life.
- They don’t provide single-use plastic water bottles – They have a water refilling station instead (so you bring your own water bottle).
- They support marine research – A small wildlife fee (included in the cost of your tour) helps fund ongoing research and conservation efforts.
Our first trip: Humpbacks everywhere
We first went in August with friends visiting from Vancouver.
After checking in at the dock, we lined up with other guests and were geared up with waterproof outer pants and thick warm jackets. On the boat, gloves and hats were offered too (we brought our own).
Then we set off.
Once out of the harbor, the boat picked up speed – and we quickly understood why the extra gear was non-negotiable. Even if you think you’re dressed warmly, the wind out there has other ideas.
Hoods went up fast.
We were a little surprised to discover it takes time to reach the whales – often 60 to 90 minutes. This isn’t instant gratification.
So we settled in, stayed warm (thankfully!) and enjoyed the coastal scenery whizzing by.
And then… we arrived.
Humpbacks. Everywhere.
We watched them surface, dive and show off those iconic tails. At one point, we were surrounded by blows and flukes in multiple directions. For one split second, we even caught a humpback in full breach!
It felt wild. Raw. Completely unscripted.
We were hooked.
Good to know
When you check in, you’re given a lanyard with your ticket that includes discounts for vendors at Fisherman’s Wharf. You can use the discounts before or after your tour – maybe hot chocolate before or fish-and-chips after?
Our second trip: Orcas up close
We loved our first Victoria whale tour so much, we went again a few weeks later – with Janice’s mom visiting from Calgary.
Different month. Different conditions. Completely different experience.
This time, we saw a few humpbacks toward the end – but the stars were the orcas.
We watched a pod glide slowly past us, including moms and babies.
And then… one massive orca passed right under the boat!
You could feel it. Everyone went completely silent. It was a goosebump travel moment.
The sea lions at Race Rocks also blew us away
One of the unexpected highlights of our trips was visiting Race Rocks Ecological Reserve.
This small cluster of rocky islets, about 10 miles (16 km) from Victoria, is packed with history and wildlife.
It’s home to British Columbia’s second-oldest lighthouse (dating back to 1860), has seen more than 100 shipwrecks over the years and is staffed today by an “eco-guardian.”
But the sea lions are the draw.
Both trips, we saw hundreds of them up close – barking, bellowing, sunning themselves on the rocks and splashing around in the surrounding kelp beds. We also spotted a few sea otters drifting nearby.
While watching them, we picked up some fascinating insights from the onboard marine biologist (who, on our second trip, happened to also be a veterinarian).
For example, did you know that sea otters wrap themselves in kelp so they don’t drift while sleeping? It acts like a natural anchor – turning kelp forests into floating ocean hammocks.
Seals also like to stick close to kelp, using them as cover from predators like orcas.
It’s a whole ecosystem out there – and the tour brings it to life in a really engaging way.
Other Victoria whale watching companies?
Of course, there are other excellent highly-rated operators in Victoria too.
Fast Zodiac adventure
If you’re craving Zodiac-style thrills, this small-group whale watching tour (by Prince of Whales) is a great option.
Suiting up in full-body flotation gear, you’ll look like the “Michelin Man” (or Gal)! But you’ll be toasty and comfortable zipping across the water in the open air.
- Thrilling 3-hour ride – Fast-paced for an adrenalin-fueled ride
- Small-group experience – Maximum 12 passengers
- Rating – 4.8 out of 5 (recommended by 96% travelers)
Cozy coastal cruiser with heated cabin
For a gentler (and warmer) way to watch whales, SpringTide Whale Watching offers a more relaxed 3-hour experience on a 60-foot ocean cruiser, with indoor and outdoor viewing areas.
- Heated indoor cabin – A welcome refuge between sightings on colder days
- Complimentary hot drinks – Coffee, tea and hot chocolate included
- Rating – 4.8 out of 5 (recommended by 95% of travelers)
Choosing the right tour for you
Whether you go with the tour we chose or another company, your biggest decision is probably about the type of boat. Do you want a full-throttle adventure – or a more comfortable cruise (with proper bathrooms)?
Open-air speedboat or Zodiac
Best for
- Adventure lovers
- Smaller group sizes
- Feeling closer to the water
Trade-offs
- Windy and colder
- Not ideal for mobility issues
Covered boat
Best for
- Comfort (heated cabin) especially in poor weather
- Families or younger kids
- Anyone prone to seasickness
Trade-offs
- Larger groups
- Slightly less “thrill factor”
Frequently asked questions
When’s the best time to go whale watching in Victoria?
The peak season is May to September/October, with June, July and August being especially active months.
When we went in August, it was all about humpbacks – and lots of them! In September, we saw fewer whales overall, but the orca sightings were wonderful.
Eagle Wing Tours actually runs year-round, though some operators only run during peak season.
Are whale sightings guaranteed?
Whales are wild animals, so there’s never a 100% guarantee.
That said, sightings are very likely in peak season (often quoted around 95%). And all the top companies, including the three covered here, offer a return guarantee. If you don’t see whales, you can go again for free.
How close can you get to the whales in Victoria?
Tours are strictly regulated under federal laws and by best practices set by the Pacific Whale Watch Association.
Boats must keep a safe minimum distance:
- 100 meters (328 feet) from humpback, gray and minke whales
- 200 meters (656 feet) from orcas
But if whales choose to come closer (and they often do), that’s completely allowed, as long as your boat stays still. And when that happens? It’s pretty magical.
What should you wear and bring?
Even on sunny days, it gets chilly out on the water. Bring:
- Layers (it’s colder on the water than you think)
- Sunglasses (there’s lots of glare)
- A secure hat
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
You may also want to bring binoculars and your camera.
Most companies provide outer gear, but you’ll still want to dress smart.
So, is it worth it?
Absolutely. The whale watching here is first-class.
We went in skeptical. We came away amazed.
If you’re visiting Victoria – or even if you live here like we do – don’t make the same mistake we did and put it off.
Just go.
(This is the tour we enjoyed, twice. We’re now thinking about going a third time. Maybe the Zodiac next?)
More Victoria travel inspo
- The Ultimate Victoria Bucket List
- An Insider’s Guide to the Top 10 Hotels in Victoria
- How to Get to Victoria (7 Different Ways)
- Victoria’s 11 Best Beaches and Lakes (By Locals)
- 15 Favorite Victoria Restaurants
- 10 Easy Scenic Walks in Victoria
- 7 Beautiful Gardens to Enjoy In Victoria
- Taking the Ferry From Vancouver to Victoria
- 7 Enchanting Butchart Gardens Tours
- Explore the Gorge on a Fun Pickle Boat
Pin this Victoria guide to whale watching
Our top travel tips and resources
→ General trip planning: TripAdvisor is a helpful starting point, with loads of user reviews on hotels, restaurants and things to do.
→ Hotels: Booking.com is our go-to for scoring a “wow” hotel – or at least a decent one – often at lower rates than the hotel’s own website. (We especially like Booking.com’s flexible cancellation policy!) You can also find excellent discounted rates on Expedia, especially for hotels in the U.S. and Mexico.
→ Vacation homes, condos and rentals: We prefer and use Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner).
→ Flights: For the best flights, we search on Google Flights first. Expedia and Kayak are then perfect for snagging the cheapest tickets. (They’re often non-refundable, though, so for more flexibility, we book directly with the airline, even if it costs more.)
→ Airport lounge access: We love (and have) Priority Pass for comfy lounge seats, free snacks and drinks, complimentary WiFi and sometimes even showers and spa services!
→ Tours: For the best local food, walking and other guided tours, plus skip-the-line tickets to attractions, check out Viator (a TripAdvisor company) and GetYourGuide.
→ Car rental: Renting a car can be a great way to explore off the beaten path. Discover Cars searches car rental companies for the lowest rates.
→ Travel insurance: SafetyWing is designed for frequent travelers, long-term adventurers and digital nomads. It covers medical expenses, lost checked luggage, trip interruption and more. We also have and recommend Medjet for global air medical transportation.
→ Travel gear: See our travel shop to find the best luggage, accessories and other travel gear. (We suggest these comfy travel sandals for city walking, the beach and kicking about.)
→ Need more help planning your trip? Check out our travel tips and resources guide for airline booking tips, ways to save money, how to find cool hotels and other useful trip planning info.
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Photo credits: 1 Eagle Wing Tours
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