The Question Everyone Asks When planning a trip to British Columbia, the excitement of seeing the wild Pacific Northwest is high. We inhabit one of the richest marine environments on the planet right here on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Naturally, when guests look into booking whale watching trips, the most common question we get asked is: “Do you guarantee we will see whales?”… Read more »
Since 2018, Campbell River Whale Watching (CRWW) has partnered with Wilderness International, a non-profit organization dedicated to the legal protection of endangered wilderness. With their help we’ve been able to fully offset our carbon footprint, making us a carbon neutral company. Wilderness International is dedicated to the long-term protection of temperate rainforests, focusing its efforts on two of the most ecologically vital and threatened regions… Read more »
For centuries, whales have captured human imagination – once feared as monstrous sea beasts to be hunted, later confined behind concrete tanks as curiosities. Thankfully, many countries have now ended whale hunts and captivity, recognizing that cetaceans deserve freedom and a natural life. While this progress is important, the journey toward truly ethical wildlife tourism is ongoing. The next challenge is changing how we think… Read more »
The coastal ecosystem of British Columbia (B.C.) is a complex web of ecological dependencies between grizzly bears, Pacific salmon, and a multitude of other species. At the heart of this complex web lies the Pacific salmon, often referred to as a keystone species due to their influence on both terrestrial and aquatic environments. Pacific Salmon: Transferring Nutrients between Sea to the Rain Forests Pacific salmon,… Read more »
The ocean—a vast, ever-changing expanse that holds countless mysteries, stories, and supports all life on this planet. From the tiniest plankton to the largest mammals on earth, the ocean is home to endless wonders, many of which remain undiscovered. I was lucky enough to be born on a small island off the southern coast of British Columbia, and some of my earliest memories revolve around… Read more »
As the boat rounds the southern tip of Quadra Island, a familiar sense of wonder washes over me. The crisp autumn air, mingled with the sharp, salty sea breeze, stings my nostrils as I breathe in deeply. Small pockets of water bubble around the boat, pushed to the surface by the powerful ocean currents working tirelessly beneath. The Coast Mountain range emerges in the distance,… Read more »
With summer fading into fall, October brings crisp air and vibrant foliage to the Campbell River area on Vancouver Island. It is not only one of the most picturesque months of the year but also a prime time for grizzly bear watching. Here’s why you should consider visiting this stunning region in late fall: 1. Prime grizzly viewing opportunities October is not just the tail… Read more »
Humpback whales, known for their acrobatic displays, are equally fascinating for their diverse feeding strategies. They employ several methods to secure their daily sustenance of up to two thousand pounds of prey per whale. Campbell River serves as a crucial feeding ground for these whales, drawing them in abundance due to its rich marine resources during the summer months from May to November. Here’s a glimpse… Read more »
Written by Maddie Lemke The ocean, a vast expanse of wonder and life, faces challenges as deep as its waters. As stewards of this blue planet, it’s imperative that we do not allow the phrase “out of sight, out of mind” to guide our actions. Instead, we must awaken new depths of responsibility, understanding, and compassion towards our oceans. This year, on World Oceans Day… Read more »
Written by Maddie Lemke Wondering when to spot the best wildlife on our tours? It’s a common question, with answers as dynamic as the wildlife itself. “What kind of wildlife will I see?” or “What are the chances of seeing specific animals?” – the excitement lies in the unpredictability. Many species around Campbell River are migratory, making each season unique in its offerings. While it… Read more »
