Full Day Kayaking And Whale Watching from Campbell River
Start your day exploring the islands by kayak, then watch marine wildlife from the comfort of a motorized boat as the Salish Sea unfolds around you.
Operating Season
May 15 - September 30
Departures
May 15 – August 25: Departing daily at 9:00 am
August 26 – September 30: Departing Fridays at 9:00 am
Vessel & Transportation
Operated aboard a covered, heated vessel with an onboard washroom. Single and double kayaks available for the kayaking portion of the trip.
Starting From
From $482.40 CAD per adult*
*Price includes a 15% fuel surcharge and a $5 conservation fee, and is subject to 5% GST.
Minimum age: 10 years old. One parent or responsible adult is required for each child 15 or under.
Group Size: A maximum of 6 people can kayak at one time.
Two ways to experience the coast
Offered in partnership with Wildcoast Adventures(opens in new tab), this full-day tour combines guided sea kayaking with whale watching in the wildlife-rich Discovery Islands.
To keep group sizes small, half the group will kayak in the morning before heading out for an afternoon of whale watching, while the other half will watch for whales first and paddle after lunch.
Whether you're in the kayak or on the boat’s open-air viewing deck, your day includes a relaxing onboard lunch and endless opportunities to spot whales, dolphins, seals, eagles, and local marine life under the guidance of an expert guide. No prior kayaking experience is needed!
This tour gives you two unique perspectives of the coast - the quiet, immersive exploration of kayaking and the broader wildlife viewing from the boat - all in one seamless full-day adventure.
What you might see
What's included
- 3 hours of whale watching aboard a well-maintained 12-passenger covered vessel with an onboard bathroom.
- 3 hours of guided sea kayaking in the Discovery Islands + all required gear (sea kayak, spray skirt, paddle, PFD vest).
- Certified Naturalist guide and Captain + Sea Kayak Guide providing engaging nature interpretation and kayaking instruction.
- Homemade zero-waste lunch, including fresh wraps, baked goods, and beverages (coffee, tea, hot chocolate, water).
- Snack and water provided: a homemade granola bar and a reusable water bottle.
What to bring
- Camera & Telephoto Lens - Capture wildlife from a safe distance; bring a protective/waterproof case.
- Binoculars - We have a few to share, but personal binoculars give you the best view.
- Warm Layers - The coast can be chilly. Think T-shirt, fleece or thin puffy jacket, and a rain jacket.
- Beanie & Gloves - Stay warm and comfortable during land-based viewing.
- Sun Protection - Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.
- Reusable Water Bottle - Fill up at our office or grab one on board if needed.
- Optional Snacks - Bring extra treats if you like.
- A Smile & Sense of Adventure - Essential for making the most of your experience!
What our guests say about this tour
"This was a fabulous day out….. Geoff and Steve were fantastic guides and made a huge effort to track whales (saw 4), seals, lots of big birds (all sorts) and sea lions. Lunch was great on the back of the boat with home prepped picnic. I’d highly recommend Campbell River Whale adventures for a professional set up and great boats and good kayaks. Loved it."
Rachel, 2025 via Tripadvisor
"I loved the combination of kayaking and the whale watching very much and everything was prepared very well. We were very lucky with the weather, the whales and in the kayaks we saw a lot of harbour seals. Many thanks to our guides who did a very good job."
HBC, 2025 via Tripadvisor
"The views were incredible. We saw sea lions, orcas and multiple humpbacks, as well as star fish etc. The guides Zoe & Quinn were extremely informative and hospitable. I would do this experience again in a heartbeat and would even do a longer expedition next time."
Ali, 2023 via Tripadvisor
FAQS
Are you looking for a little more adventure? We have also teamed up with WILDCOAST to offer a multi day, whale watching and kayaking tour! Head over to their site for more information on this tour! It will be an experience of a lifetime!
