About Us

Tyler Bruce (He/Him)

Tyler Bruce has grown up on the water. His early years were spent down in the Gulf Islands, before moving north and exploring Nootka Sound, Discovery Passage, and the Johnstone Strait.

He's been involved in the commercial sportfishing and ski industry since 2001. He was the Assistant Slope Supervisor at Mount Washington Alpine Ski Resort, and was tasked with supervising a crew of 20 in day-to-day operations. He is also a commercial sports fisherman in Nootka Sounds Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait.

Tyler has a Leadership and Safety Excellence certificate from ACSA, MED 3A- Marine Emergency Duties, Marine First Aid CPR/AED Level C, VHF Radio Operators License, and Small Vessel Operators Proficiency from Transport Canada.

Stephen Gabrysh (He/Him)

Stephen Gabrysh has had a passion for the water since moving from Alberta in 1992. He is a avid fisherman and outdoorsman. Stephen lives in Campbell River and loves spending time with his family. His two daughters are 5 and 12. They have enjoyed spending more time on the water and share his passion for the outdoors.

His business background as an entrepreneur has grown a company from 30 employees to 75. Stephen has a Bcom in Entrepreneurial Management from Royal Roads University. He is a trained naturalist, Commercial Bear Viewing Association Level 1 bear viewing guide and is Transport Canada Certified for small commercial vessel operations. Stephen also holds a Multi Engine IFR Pilots License, and a Class 1 Commercial Drivers License.

He also currently serves as President of the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association, member of the City of Campbell River Tourism Advisory Committee, and member of the Discovery Islands Tourism and Forestry Working Group.

Robin Pears (He/Him)

Robin was born and raised in the Campbell River area and grew up on the water. His passion for being on the ocean and sharing his experiences is what drew him to becoming a mariner, and later a whale watching guide.

He has been a guide for 7 years, 6 of which have been with CRWW. Robin truly believes that everyone should experience the rugged nature and the currents in the Discovery Islands area at least once in their lifetime, and he knows they'll come back for more!

He believes it is crucial that we all do our part in keeping this stunning part of the world as pristine as possible so that future generations get to explore and witness what he gets to see on his tours.

When he's not working, he can be found at his family cabin, on the golf course, at the softball diamond, or out for an evening fish.

Maddie Lemke (She/Her)

Maddie was born and raised in the countryside of southern Germany. Despite growing up far from the ocean, Maddie's annual childhood camping trips to European seaside destinations sparked a profound fascination with the ocean and marine life.

Maddie holds a bachelor’s and master's degree in tourism and destination management and has been a part of our team since 2023. She has found her dream job in the ethical whale watching industry, where she finds herself immersed in constant learning about wildlife, while also fulfilling her passion for creativity and sustainable development. Maddie utilizes her marketing expertise as a tool to communicate the importance of ethical practices in wildlife viewing, inspiring guests to join educational tours and fostering a deep interest in ocean conservation awareness.

When she’s not at work, Maddie loves being active outside, mountain biking, hiking, paddle boarding, or just having a quiet day at the beach with a good book. She also enjoys being creative with activities like painting and baking sourdough bread.

Bri Hamlyn (She/Her)

Meet Bri, our office supervisor, who joined the team in January of 2022.

Growing up on Vancouver Island instilled a genuine passion for nature in Bri, and a strong desire to protect and promote natural spaces. After exploring Canada's North for over ten years, Bri and her husband have returned to Vancouver Island with renewed appreciation of the rugged coastlines and stunning wildlife in the region. Environmental Education has been the focus of Bri’s career and she has been very fortunate to have found many exciting jobs in this field. She holds a bachelor of science, with a double major in geomorphology and fish ecology.

The ocean is vital to life on earth, and yet we know less about the ocean than space. Inspiring guests and helping them connect with local wildlife, while demonstrating the ocean's impact on our daily lives, makes this a rewarding and fulfilling career for Bri. The commitment of Campbell River Whale Watching to sustainability and ethical wildlife viewing policies made it a clear choice in the industry.

As an avid photographer, Bri hopes that her nature and wildlife photographs inspire others to see the beauty in everything wild, including the small things. It's not just the big exciting mega fauna that we must cherish but also the small, often unnoticed animals, like sea slugs and sea gulls floating on logs!

The best part about her job is getting out on the tours. Grizzly tours are Bri’s favourite as she gets to see such a variety of wildlife on these long days in the wilderness.

When she’s not working you'll find her on one of our tours! She also loves getting out in the wild: camping, foraging, and hiking.

Fun Fact: Several of Bri’s photographs have been published in magazines and books, including the Canadian Encyclopedia!

Jack Springer (He/Him)

Meet Jack, the founder of Campbell River Whale Watching and one of our seasoned guides. Known affectionately as "Hurricane Jack," his journey into marine tourism began with the acquisition of a sturdy Hurricane 733 vessel, akin to those used by the Coast Guard. Over six years, Jack logged an impressive 1200 hours per season, navigating from Painter’s Lodge to destinations like Telegraph Cove and Alert Bay—a round trip spanning over 200 miles.

Jack's bright orange Hurricane 733 became a familiar sight along the coast, pioneering Zodiac tours in the region. He forged relationships with local fishing guides, exchanging valuable wildlife sightings for weather updates—a collaboration that earned him the nickname "Hurricane Jack."

For over three decades, Jack has explored the waters of Discovery Passage and Johnstone Strait, captivated by their natural beauty and abundant wildlife. With a Bachelor of Education from the University of Victoria, specializing in Outdoor and Physical Education, Jack combines his academic background with extensive certifications in marine emergency duties, first aid, and naturalist studies.

Jack’s passion lies in sharing the wonders of his backyard—Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Grizzly and Black Bears, Bald Eagles, and the majestic Orca—with visitors and their families.

Jessica Parker (She/Her)

Meet Jessica, a seasoned captain aboard our covered and zodiac vessels, also helping out in the office! Coming from Stuart Island, she was a 10 year, fourth-generation fishing guide. Family ties brought her closer to move to Campbell River, where her passion of boating led her into the whale watching industry. With family connections to the original owner of Campbell River Whale Watching, Jessica officially joined our team in 2022.

Jessica's commitment to wildlife and sustainability is evident in her dedication to education and advocacy for sustainable fishing practices and regulations. With over a decade of experience guiding, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the Campbell River Whale Watching Team.

For Jessica, the best part of her job lies in spending her days outdoors, on the water, surrounded by nature and getting to share it with others. Outside of work, she loves to go fishing on her boat with her family, going on bike rides and hitting the ski slopes in the winter months!

Capt. John Lewis (He/Him)

Captain John Lewis, a true Campbell River local, has spent five decades navigating the British Columbia coast. After a fulfilling career with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, he embraced semi-retirement, joining the Campbell River Whale Watching team two years ago as captain of the M.V. Tenacious III.

John's lifelong connection to the ocean fuels his dedication to environmental protection. With a background in Fish, Wildlife, and Recreation from the British Columbia Institute of Technology, and years spent at DFO's Conservation and Protection division, he's committed to ensuring the sustainability of our marine resources. Joining Campbell River Whale Watching was a natural fit, allowing him to continue exploring the ocean while educating visitors from around the world.

Outside of work, John is actively involved in environmental initiatives and serves as a director of the Campbell River Environmental Committee and the Haig-Brown Institute. He enjoys boating, camping, playing with the Royal Canadian Legion Pipe Band, and has a dog named Otis.

Zoe Hasenfratz (She/Her)

Meet Zoe, one of our zodiac guides and naturalists. Hailing from Salt Spring Island, Zoe’s deep connection with the ocean began early in life. She pursued her passion through earning a Bachelor of Marine Science from Quest University and an Adventure Guiding Certificate from North Island College.

Zoe’s career in whale watching stems from her love for the outdoors and dedication to wildlife conservation. She believes in the transformative power of hands-on experiences in fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and sustainable living.

Passionate about environmental stewardship, Zoe integrates sustainability into both her personal and professional life. At Campbell River Whale Watching, where she’s now in her fourth season, Zoe shares her expertise and enthusiasm for marine wildlife while promoting responsible tourism.

Guiding guests through unforgettable wildlife encounters is Zoe’s greatest joy. Whether observing whales or playful dolphins, she delights in creating lasting memories for visitors from diverse backgrounds. Outside of work, Zoe enjoys hiking, camping, diving, and skiing, as well as expressing her love for nature through various creative outlets.

Bex Dawkes (She/They)

Meet Bex, one of our amazing guides, bringing a wealth of outdoor experience and a passion for sustainability to our team. Originally from the UK, Bex's childhood revolved around competitive sail racing, sparking a love for the ocean. Despite detours through academia and non-profits, Bex ultimately traded London's hustle for BC's natural beauty in 2018, finding a home in Campbell River.

For Bex, working in the whale watching industry is a dream come true. It's an opportunity to blend a love for the outdoors with educating others about the natural world and inspiring positive environmental change. With a Master's Degree in Sustainable Development, Bex believes in fostering connections with nature as a catalyst for conservation efforts.

Joining the Campbell River Whale Watching Team in 2023, this is Bex's second season as a guide. The highlight of Bex's job? Witnessing the awe on people's faces as they encounter the wonders of nature.

Outside of work, Bex is an avid photographer. On days off, you'll find Bex hiking, biking, skiing, or kayaking with their partner and their dog. Fun fact: Bex hails from Worcestershire, home of Worcestershire sauce, and really enjoys listening to people try to say it.

Jim Rogers (He/Him)

Meet Jim, one of our covered boat captains! His journey began back in 1977 when he traded the urban bustle of Vancouver for the shores of Campbell River, driven for more of an outdoor-centric lifestyle. Over the years, Jim transitioned from local business ownership to becoming a full-time guide, a role that perfectly aligns with his deep-rooted passion for nature and wildlife.

Jim supports conservation efforts aimed at protecting wildlife, expressing particular admiration for Grizzly Bears. His commitment to environmental stewardship is evident in his advocacy for maintaining a strong conservation mindset while on tours.

Since joining the Campbell River Whale Watching Team in 2014, the true highlight of his job lies in the relationships he cultivates with his colleagues and guests. Having many years of travels, he cherishes the opportunity to connect with people from around the world, bonding over shared experiences of nature's wonders.

When Jim isn't navigating the coastal waters or guiding guests wildlife encounters, you can find him indulging in his favorite pastimes. Whether fishing, exploring trails on a hike, or working on his garden!

Lorill Vining (She/Her)

Meet Lorill, one of our Zodiac drivers! During the year she works as the Principal of Quadra and Surge Narrows Schools! Her upbringing in Desolation Sound instilled a deep love for the ocean and all its inhabitants from a very young age.

Her Journey into the whale watching industry was fueled by her passion for the ocean and teaching. As she approached retirement planning, she found whale watching to be the perfect blend of her interests. Exploring these waters and learning about the local wildlife has been truly uplifting to her, and she is grateful for the opportunity to work alongside the talented and inspiring team at CRWW.

Before Joining in 2020 she worked as a fish guide and eco-tour guide on the West Coast! The best part of her job is the opportunity to collaborate with inspiring individuals, forge connections with new people, and create lasting memories with guests, all while being awestruck by the beauty of our coast and its magnificent creatures.

Outside of work, you'll find her immersed in family time, tending to her garden, enjoying her property and friends in Quatsino Sound, and most recently, learning from her two bee hives that have become a delightful new hobby.

She definitely has a playful side as a self-proclaimed part-pirate, and she's excitedly planning to commemorate that spirit with an octopus tattoo!

Bradden Kiley (He/Him)

Meet Bradden, one of our passionate guides. Bradden’s name, crafted by his mother without historical significance, reflects his unique journey into the world of recreation and social tourism.

Bradden’s career path evolved as he embraced life’s opportunities, drawn to sharing experiences of the environment and its interconnected creatures. Joining the team during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bradden brought with him a wealth of stories and experiences from his time at Painter's Lodge. Surrounded by diverse personalities, including fishing guides with countless tales, Bradden’s transition to whale watching was seamless.

For Bradden, the allure of his work lies in the vastness and complexity of our world. Every day brings new discoveries and opportunities to expand his understanding—a perpetual learning journey that keeps him engaged and excited.

Lexie Thomas (She/Her)

Meet Lexie, one of our marine naturalists. Lexie has been obsessed with whales since the beginning of time, particularly humpback whales. She loves them for their curious and acrobatic nature, as well as the noise of their soothing yet mystical ‘blows’.

Lexie worked in the horticulture industry for 10 years, pursuing a diploma in Horticulture and Greenhouse Technology. She recently moved to British Columbia from Ontario to pursue a change of career into the field of sustainable ecotourism to bring the public to amazing wildlife encounters right at the edge of their doorstep and to showcase the natural wonder of cetaceans in British Columbia.

Lexie is deeply committed to ocean conservation, eager to contribute to the restoration and health of our marine environments for future generations.

When Lexie is not working, she enjoys scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming and all things water-related. She likes to make people laugh and smile by encouraging weirdness!

Sherry Heggie (She/Her)

Meet Sherry! She was born and raised in Campbell River. She grew up living on the water, fishing with her family and watching the whales in the Strait from the shore.

Her tourism career started in 1967 as a teenager working at April Point for three summers before graduating and attending University of Victoria. Retiring in 1999 from trucking management, she found herself drawn back into her first love of tourism. She joined the team in 2009 because of her friendship with Jack Springer.

Her love of nature and customer service makes things a perfect fit for her. “I truly enjoy the friendship of the staff and the customers that I had a pleasure of helping along the way.”

When not working she is an avid gardener and loves to spend time in her yard!

Gracie McRae (She/Her)

While you'll often find her bustling around the office, she's preparing to transition into her role as a naturalist on board our T3 vessel. Gracie is a true islander, born and raised right here on Vancouver Island, where her rooted connection to nature and wildlife began.

Gracie's love for travel and her desire to create unforgettable experiences for others led her to this career path. Gracie finds endless excitement in engaging with people and the incredible abundance of wildlife that surrounds her.

Gracie's journey in the industry started after she began her degree in tourism with a specialization in Adventure guiding. Joining the Campbell River Whale Watching team in 2022, she's found a sense of belonging among like-minded individuals who share her enthusiasm for the ocean and its inhabitants.

Outside of work, Gracie loves staying active and exploring more of Vancouver Island. Whether she's hiking through scenic trails, enjoying the beach, or embarking on spontaneous road trips, her love for discovery knows no bounds!

Mallory Willing (She/Her)

Meet Mallory, new to our team this season, you’ll see her running around the office and down the docks to catch boats as they come back from our tours. Mallory was born and raised in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta and moved to British Columbia in the winter of 2022. After two winter seasons in BC’s interior, she decided it was time to see what Vancouver Island had to offer.

Growing up near the mountains and in an outdoorsy family, made her want to pursue a Bachelors of Science degree in Ecology. Mallory is passionate about sustainability, spending time outdoors, and learning about the natural world by being in it.

Mallory’s favorite part of her job is meeting people from so many different backgrounds and being able to be a part of them seeing so much wildlife on our tours. When she is not in the office, Mallory will be out hiking, camping, exploring as much of Vancouver Island as possible, and in the winter months you can find her on a mountain skiing.