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Whale Tours & some Questions you may have …

We have included some questions that we find are often on the top of mind for our guests. We hope you find these helpful!

Whale Watch tours – where do they depart from?

Tours depart from Victoria’s world famous Inner Harbour.
The Check in office is at 1207 Wharf Street, and details may be found under “Locations”.

Whale Watching vessels travel to which areas?

While every tour is unique, the breathtaking scenery of Haro Strait, Strait of Juan de Fuca, Race Rocks Ecological Reserve & the San Juan Islands are often explored.

Whale Watch tours last how long?

3 spectacular hours! And, please plan on checking in with us at 45 minutes prior to your tour.

Biologists – do they provide a talk during the trip?

All tours are fully narrated by a marine biologist/certified naturalist.

Whales most commonly viewed?

Orca or Killer Whales, Humpbacks, Greys, and Minke whales.

Whale Sightings: Best time of year and optimal conditions to see whales?

Whale watching success is optimal between April and October. Time of day and weather do not appear to have a predictable influence on whale behaviour.

Wildlife you might also see on your whale tour?

Porpoise -Dall’s and Harbour, Sea Lions – Steller and California, Seals -Harbour and Elephant, Bald Eagles and many other marine bird species.

Orca Whale

Toothed whale and largest member of the dolphin family. The Southern Resident Orca (J, K, and L pod) and Transient Orca are most common in our waters. Average life span in the wild is between 50 – 100 years!

Humpback Whale

Baleen whale. Often spotted off our shores as they migrate in the spring from Mexico or Hawaii to the Bering Sea in the Gulf of Alaska where they feed.

Grey Whale

Baleen whale. Grey whales are spotted in our waters on their tremendous migration route (10,000 miles) from their Baja California breeding grounds to their Alaskan summer feeding grounds.

Minke Whale

Baleen whale, approximately 30 feet in length. Now the world’s most heavily hunted whale, as a result of the larger baleen whales having been driven to the edge of extinction.

Whale Watching Vessels: Difference between our Luxury Motor Yacht and High Speed Zodiac?

Motor Yacht- Spectacular vantage point, wraparound decks for unimpeded view, onboard naturalist, and complimentary hot drinks, comfortable to sit back and relax. There is a nice big toilet facility onboard. We have extra jackets for you if you have forgotten to bring one. You will find much more informtion under “The Boats” section in “About Us”.

Zodiac- Adventurous and exciting. Open boat for uninterrupted views. Full-length insolated floatation suits, gloves, and hats are provided. Toilet facility is available, but difficult to use, as you are in your full floatation suit. Best to plan on using the toilet before the tour departs! Have a peek at the zodiac in the “The Boats” section in “About Us”.

Whale Sightings, how do you find the whales?

SpringTide participates in the most extensive international whale-spotting network to ensure the highest sighting rate.

Whale Tour Tickets ~ how to make a reservation?
Do we offer special discounts?

Reservations can be made online via the form on this website, or by calling toll free 1.800.470.3474 or locally 250.384.4444 to speak to one of our friendly reservation staff. Groups, seniors and students qualify for special discounts.

What should I bring?

Most are comfortable wearing normal clothing on their trip; we suggest one extra layer of clothing for added warmth on the water. Comfortable, flat shoes are recommended. Bring your camera! Bottled water, travel bands and binoculars are available for purchase should you wish.

Is it common for people to feel seasick?

Our luxury motor yacht is a mono-haul vessel and handles the water exquisitely. Because of the openness of the zodiac and the fresh air it provides for passengers, there is no need to worry about seasickness. However, in such a case, we have travel bands for purchase and complimentary candied ginger.

Are there drinks/food?

Complimentary hot drinks (hot chocolate, coffee, and tea) are provided on the motor yacht. Passengers are welcome to bring a snack on the vessel.

Whale Watch – 3 Hour Tour. Is it the only tour Springtide offers?

A 2.5 hour marine birding and wildlife tour is offered from October to April. SpringTide also arranges private charters for harbour/dinner cruises year-round. You may find more information under our “Other Tours” section.

Whale Tours and age restrictions?

There are no age restrictions for the Motor Yacht, however Zodiac is not recommended for children under 7 years old. We also do not recommend Zodiac travel for those in frail health, with neck and/or spinal problems or for expectant mothers.

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