As 2024 draws to a close, we are proud to celebrate a year of significant milestones and progress in sustainability. From earning new certifications to supporting vital community initiatives, we remain committed to creating positive change for our guests, the environment, and the local community.
Pioneering Inclusivity: Becoming Rainbow Registered
We are thrilled to announce that Campbell River Whale Watching & Adventure Tours is the first whale-watching company in Canada to earn the prestigious Rainbow Registered accreditation from the Canadian 2SLGBTQIA+ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC). This honor reflects our commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where all guests, staff, and community members feel welcomed and respected.
“This accreditation is more than just recognition; it’s a commitment to building spaces where everyone—regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity—feels valued. We hope our efforts inspire other tourism businesses to embrace similar practices.” — Stephen Gabrysh, Co-owner
As a Rainbow Registered business, we empower 2SLGBTQIA+ travelers and allies to explore British Columbia with confidence, knowing they will receive respectful, inclusive service.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Mandatory DEI Training
In 2024, we enhanced our focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) by implementing mandatory DEI training for all staff, including seasonal employees. This training ensures our team is equipped to create an inclusive experience for every guest while fostering a culture of equity within our organization.
Recognized for Sustainability Leadership
EcoStar Award Finalist
EcoStar Award FinalistWe were honored to be named a finalist for the EcoStar Award in the Experiential Tourism category. Congratulations to the Malahat SkyWalk team on their well-deserved win! Being recognized underscores the importance of sustainability in tourism, and we are excited to continue leading in eco-friendly travel.
TIAC Sustainable Tourism Award Finalist
We are also proud to be a finalist for the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s (TIAC) Sustainable Tourism Award. The final decision is expected in early December, and we are thrilled to be acknowledged for our ongoing dedication to environmental stewardship.
Giving Back: Our 2024 Donation Program
We believe in the power of giving back. This year, we contributed $19,880.17 in gift cards to support local organizations, fostering social and environmental sustainability. Organizations we supported in 2024 include Pacific Salmon Foundation, Bay Cetology, Habitat for Humanity, Vancouver Island Adaptive Snowsports and many more!
In addition to this, we have again hosted fundraising tours for the Marine Education & Research Society (MERS), Campbell River Hospice and North Island Pride.
Some other amazing local organizations we have supported in 2024 are:
- Laichwiltach Family Life Society: We donated 20% of National Indigenous Peoples Day 4h Covered Boat tour proceeds and hosted orange shirt sales to support Indigenous children and families.
- Campbell River Skating Club: As a title sponsor, we support community enrichment through sponsorship and organized a beach clean-up to promote environmental stewardship.
- NIMMSA (North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association): Our conservation fee that is included in every guest ticket raised $15,000 for the NIMMSA conservation fund in 2024, supporting marine mammal research.
- Commercial Bear Viewing Association (CBVA): We collected conservation and license fees for grizzly tours and raised $30,060 to help support bear conservation efforts in BC.
Beach Clean-Up organized with the Campbell River Skating Club in September 2024
Honoring Indigenous Culture: Commissioning a Welcome and Land Acknowledgement Sign
In 2024, we took an important step toward honoring the rich cultural heritage of the land and waters we operate on. Our Float House has been graced with a stunning addition: a hand-carved welcome and land acknowledgment sign by Kwakwakaʼwakw Indigenous artist Will Henderson.
This beautiful artwork features a thunderbird and a killer whale, two powerful symbols in Kwakwakaʼwakw culture.
The welcome and land acknowledgment sign affirms our commitment to fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities and acknowledging the deep cultural significance of the territories we are privileged to operate within.
Protecting the Planet: Carbon Sequestration and Forest Preservation
In 2024, we again proudly supported Wilderness International, an organization dedicated to purchasing and permanently protecting old-growth forests in British Columbia. This year, Campbell River Whale Watching will donate enough to protect a minimum of 10,000 square meters of forest to offset our unavoidable carbon emissions.
Additionally, through the generosity of our guests, we collected $9,414 in voluntary donations - enough to protect another 6,276 square meters of pristine old-growth forest.
In total, our efforts will safeguard at least 16,276 square meters of forest, preserving vital habitats for countless species. These forests serve as powerful carbon sinks, playing a crucial role in the global fight against climate change.
By preserving these forests, we’re not just protecting trees - we’re safeguarding biodiversity, clean air, and a healthier planet for future generations.
Join us in making a difference! Click here to donate and help protect BC's old-growth forests for generations to come.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look forward, we remain committed to expanding partnerships with Indigenous communities, enhancing eco-friendly practices, and contributing to conservation efforts. Sustainability is central to our mission, and we are deeply grateful for the support of our guests, partners, and staff.
Together, we are making a lasting impact on our planet and shaping the future of whale watching.
Thank you for being part of our journey toward a more sustainable future! Stay tuned for more exciting updates in 2025.
