Grizzly Bear Expedition to Toba Inlet from Campbell River
Explore the wild beauty of Toba Inlet alongside the Klahoose First Nation, whose guides share generations of knowledge and cultural connection as you observe grizzly bears in one of British Columbia’s most remote coastal ecosystems.
Operating Season
August 26 - October 15
Departures
Daily departures at 9:30 AM from August 26 to September 30, and at 9:00 AM from October 1 to 15.
Additional departures at 7:00 AM on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
Vessel & Transportation
Operated aboard a covered, heated vessel with an onboard washroom, plus comfortable vans for the land-based bear viewing portion.
Starting From
From $655.08 CAD per adult*
*Price includes a 15% fuel surcharge, a $15 Commercial Bear Viewing Association fee and a $5 conservation fee, and is subject to 5% GST.
Grizzlies and Fjords of Toba Inlet
Set out on an unforgettable adventure through the fjords of Toba Inlet. Your journey begins with a scenic 2-3 hour boat journey through the waterways of Desolation Sound, where cascading waterfalls and dramatic coastal scenery hint at the wild beauty to come.
Step ashore for land-based grizzly bear viewing guided by members of the Klahoose First Nation, who share their deep connection to this land through stories, traditions, and generations of knowledge. Witness grizzly bears in their natural habitat, from powerful male grizzlies to the occasional sow with cubs.
At 8-9 hours, this is the longest grizzly bear tour into Toba Inlet, designed to immerse you fully in both the marine and terrestrial wonders of the region. Experience breathtaking wildlife encounters, unparalleled fjord scenery, and the cultural insights that make this journey truly unique.
Minimum age: 10 years old
What you might see
What's included
- Travel aboard a well-maintained 12 passenger vessel with an onboard bathroom.
- Scenic boat ride through Toba Inlet, with extra time allocated to view marine wildlife.
- Certified Naturalist guide and Captain providing engaging nature interpretation.
- Klahoose First Nation Bear Guide sharing cultural knowledge during land-based viewing.
- 3 hours on land in Toba Inlet, observing grizzly bears on raised, covered platforms as they hunt and feed on spawning salmon.
- Opportunities for photography and wildlife observation - cameras and binoculars welcome (tripods not recommended).
- 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 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
"One of the most memorable days of our lives. I cannot recommend this trip enough.
From the start, the staff were awesome, and our guide Bradden made the day even better. On the way to Toba Inlet, we saw humpbacks, orcas, seals, and otters. The weather was perfect - blue skies, sunshine, calm waters.
We spent a good amount of time with the whales, seeing tail flips and blowholes. The orcas were hunting and tail-slapping, super active and exciting to watch.
At Toba, we met the local Indigenous guides who care for the land and bears. We saw several bears, including a mum with two cubs, catching and eating salmon. It was incredible to watch their behaviour up close while still feeling safe and respectful.
Worth every dollar - an unforgettable day."
Stephanie, 2025 via Tripadvisor
"We had the most extraordinary day on the Toba inlet grizzly tour. Our skipper and guide for the day, Jarek, was super-welcoming and enthusiastic and very knowledgeable about the local area flora and fauna as well as an impressive amount of history. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Our guide onshore, Benny, from Klahoose first nation, was very hospitable and knowledgeable and helped us to view the grizzly bears safely and respectfully. You can never guarantee what wildlife you will see on any particular trip, but we were incredibly fortunate to see two pods of resident orcas, porpoises and white-sided dolphins on the way out, male and female grizzlies and cubs, as well as humpback whales on the return trip. Even the catered lunch and refreshments were excellent. Thanks so much Jarek, Benny and team for an unforgettable experience."
Cking, 2025 via Tripadvisor
"From start to finish, it was a totally brilliant experience. Our skipper
Tyler W. was very friendly, knowledgeable and competent in all aspects of the day. The trip to the Toba Inlet was made all the more special as we saw killer whales and on our return we were treated to a display of humpback whales.
The two indigenous guides who took us to look for bears were both very helpful and answered any questions. We felt safe at all times and were lucky enough to see bears at close, but not too close quarters!
The refreshments provided on the boat were delicious and ample for the day.
We would highly recommend using this company."
Pierina, 2025 via Tripadvisor
FAQS
Explore More About Bears
Discover more about bears and the untamed Pacific through our blog.
Responsible Bear Viewing is Our Top Priority
We love seeing bears as much as our guests do! But their safety, comfort, and natural behaviour always come first. Our goal is to provide unforgettable wildlife experiences while minimizing any impact on these incredible animals and their environment.
We are proud members of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of British Columbia (CBVA), and we follow their Code of Conduct, which goes above and beyond in ensuring safe and respectful bear viewing.
How We Protect Bears and Their Habitat
- Keep a safe distance: Bears have personal space, and we never approach, crowd, or chase them. Guides set boundaries so bears can choose how close they want to come.
- Minimize disturbance: We move quietly, limit noise, and position ourselves so bears can feed, rest, and travel without disruption.
- No human food or garbage: Bears must never have access to human food, and all waste is securely managed.
- Predictable behaviour: Our guides act consistently and safely, helping bears feel comfortable and reducing stress.
- Group safety and etiquette: Guests stay together, follow the guide’s instructions, and respect the bear’s signals.
- Boat and land-based viewing: We maintain respectful distances from shore and water, approach slowly, and coordinate with other viewing groups to avoid crowding.
We carefully observe each bear’s behaviour and will end a viewing session if an animal shows signs of stress or discomfort. Our priority is always the well-being of the bears, even if it means giving up a closer look.
For a full list of guidelines, you can view the CBVA Code of Conduct.
Protecting Old Growth Forest, One Square Meter at a Time
For every guest who joins us on a tour, we protect 1 square meter of old growth forest! Since 2018, we’ve partnered with Wilderness International to conserve rainforest on Canada’s West Coast, ensuring its preservation forever. This vital work helps sequester carbon and protect the last of our planet’s intact habitats through legally secure land purchases.
You'll receive a personalized certificate featuring an aerial photograph and geocoordinates, so you can see exactly which piece of forest you're helping to protect!
Want to do even more? During checkout, you’ll have the option to make an additional donation to Wilderness International, helping protect even more rainforest and expand our conservation efforts.
Support Bear Conservation With Every Tour
When you join us for a bear viewing adventure, you’re not just creating unforgettable memories - you’re helping protect bears and their habitat. $15 from every ticket goes directly to the Commercial Bear Viewing Association’s (CBVA) Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation.
Each year, the Small Grant Program funds initiatives that support the protection of grizzly, black, and spirit bears, while also engaging local communities, First Nations governments, researchers, and conservation organizations.
The program supports projects that:
- Advance bear conservation and habitat protection
- Promote research, education, and community engagement
- Build skills within the bear viewing, research, and conservation network
By joining a bear viewing tour with us, you’re directly contributing to these conservation efforts - helping ensure future generations can experience bears in the wild.
Learn more about the CBVA Small Grant Program for Bear Conservation here.
$5 Of Every Ticket Supports Local Marine Mammal Conservation
As part of every ticket, a $5 conservation fee is donated to local marine conservation initiatives such as the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association (NIMMSA) Conservation Fund and other non-profit conservation projects.
NIMMSA works tirelessly to protect marine mammals, support the local economy, and preserve the marine environment around northern Vancouver Island. From policy development to hands-on conservation efforts, their work is made possible through the support of association members and initiatives like ours.
By joining our tour, you’re not only experiencing the beauty of these waters but also contributing to vital marine conservation activities that help protect the region’s wildlife for years to come.
Respecting Indigenous Territories
Learn about the importance of traveling respectfully on Indigenous lands. Watch this insightful video featuring voices from Indigenous communities and their guidance on how to honor traditions while exploring these territories.
