- 2.5-3 hours
- Tofino
Our Tofino Zodiac whale watching tours are fast-paced and exciting! Feel a real connection to the elements and local wildlife as we search for whales.
Quick Details
Cruiser Whale Watching Tour in Tofino
Enjoy the scenic views along the stunning coastline of Clayoquot Sound on our way to the common feeding areas of whales. Learn about the area’s fascinating ecosystems with our engaging naturalists while experiencing first-hand the natural characteristics of a wide variety of wildlife.
On our whale watching tours, we commonly see Grey Whales. Beginning in late February, these whales start passing by our coastline as they migrate towards Alaska. Starting in May, we see our resident Grey Whales settle into their feeding grounds around Tofino & Clayoquot Sound. These are the whales we most commonly see on our whale watching tours.
In addition to Grey Whales, the whales that we may also see on our tours include Transient (Bigg’s) Killer Whales and Humpback Whales.
When we’re not watching whales spouting, feeding, spy-hopping, and breaching we’re spending time with other wildlife. On our whale watching tours, it is also common to see Sea Lions, Sea Otters, Seals, Eagles, and more!
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The Lukwa is Jamie’s large cruiser vessel and features indoor and outdoor seating with great views from all decks. This steady and comfortable vessel is a great option for everyone including families, larger groups, and photographers.
Some features of the Lukwa include:
- Full commentary by trained & certified captain and naturalists
- Indoor heated seating
- Outdoor open seating
- Washrooms
- Maximum: 45 guests
Occasionally, we will use the Chinook Princess, Pacific Springs or Eagle 44, our cabin cruiser vessel for our whale watching tours.
Some features of the Chinook Princess, Pacific Springs & Eagle 44 include:
- Full commentary by your skipper & crew
- Indoor heated seating
- Open rear deck for wildlife viewing
- Marine toilet
- Maximum: 12-30 guests
NOTE: Vessels are not wheelchair accessible.
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While we love sharing the experience of watching whales and other wildlife with our guests, we also follow guidelines to ensure we’re not encroaching on or disturbing the wildlife in its natural habitat.
Due to government regulations, we do not approach closer than 100 metres to all whales with the exception of Transient (Bigg’s) Killer Whales which we do not approach closer than 200 metres. While we do not approach closer than the noted distances, occasionally, while our vessels are turned off, the whales get curious and approach our vessels. At this point, we will retreat to the noted distances when it is safe to do so.
Be sure to bring binoculars for close-up views of these amazing marine mammals.
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With over 40 years of experience, we know where and how to find whales for you. We have a 95% Sightings Success Rate in finding whales on our tours.
If you join us on a Whale Watching tour and do not see a whale, we will provide you with a Raincheck Ticket, allowing you to join us on another tour – FREE of charge!
Guests using a Raincheck Ticket for Whale Watching tours:
- Are able to join tours aboard our large or cabin cruiser vessels, or our open zodiac vessels, from either Tofino or Ucluelet.
- Are on a stand-by basis, dependent on capacity levels.
- Are able to confirm seats 60 minutes prior to departure.
- Can not use a Raincheck Ticket for a Bear Watching or Hot Springs Cove tour.
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When is the best time of day to see whales?
In our experience, there isn’t any better time of day for whale sightings. Whales are actively feeding throughout the day which gives us lots of opportunities to watch them in their natural habitat.
When is the best time of year for whale sightings?
Whales are always present along our coastlines but we primarily will see them throughout our main operating season from March through October.
What should I bring on my tour?
We recommend that you dress in warm layered clothing for all our tours. It is always cooler on the water, even in the warm days of summer. Also recommended are a camera, sunscreen, gloves, hat, rain gear (if raining), binoculars, and most importantly – your sense of adventure!
Do I need to worry about seasickness?
If you are prone to motion sickness while in a car or have experienced seasickness in the past, we recommend being prepared by visiting a pharmacy to discuss the best option for you. Fortunately, there are many options to reduce the risk of becoming seasick. We recommend taking any over-the-counter seasickness remedies a few hours prior to your departure to allow you to see the best results.
How long will the tour be?
Our whale tours are between 2.5-3 hours in length. The length of the tour is dependent on multiple variables including sea conditions and the locations of the various wildlife we see on our tours. Please note that every tour has an allotted time slot of 3 hours to allow you to plan for the maximum amount of time spent on your tour. All guests should arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to check in and allow for an additional 15-30 minutes upon the completion of the tour to disembark, desuit (Zodiac tours), use the washrooms and visit the gift shops. Total time spent with Jamie’s for Whale Watching tours will vary between 3.25 to 4 hours.
Read more FAQ here
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Our Whale Watching tours have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If any cancellations are received, including a reduction in the passenger numbers, within 24 hours of the tour departure refunds will not be issued. Any cancellations outside of 24-hours will receive a 100% refund.
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At Jamie’s, the safety of our passengers and crew is our highest priority. As part of our ongoing commitment to safety, we have extensive training and vessel maintenance schedules in place and have made significant investments in ensuring we have safety and life-saving equipment on our vessels that not only meet, but exceed Transport Canada standards.
Before each tour, our crew will gather all guests for a safety briefing while also distributing Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs) to each individual.
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Please read & understand our Covid-19 Safety Pledge & Updates before booking your tour.
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Waivers
All tours are subject to the signing of a waiver releasing Jamie’s Whaling Station from liability. Reading, understanding, and accepting the terms of this waiver is necessary in order to take part in any Jamie’s Whaling Station tour. If you are purchasing tickets for other guests, you must ensure that all guests read and sign their own waiver.
Booking Fees
In addition to the listed rates on this page, all bookings will have the additional fees added at checkout:
-5% GST
-$3 Research, Rescue & Education Fee (per person)
-6% Booking Fees (online only)
Price Match Guarantee
At Jamie’s, we’re committed to offering you the best adventure experience at the most affordable price. If you find the same tour offered at a cheaper price we will match that price based on the following conditions…
-proof of the cheaper fare such as a print ad or screenshot
-the tour is identical in destination and length
-the tour price is the listed price before taxes/fees
Minimum Passenger Requirements
The Lukwa requires a minimum of 6 passengers to confirm the tour. If the tour doesn’t confirm, we will either use our smaller cabin cruiser vessel (if available) or move your reservation to a different vessel (Zodiac), different location (Ucluelet), or a different day. We will contact you to let you know if your tour has not been confirmed and to give you alternative options.
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Book a Bear Watching or Hot Springs Cove tour or even another Whale Watching tour with Jamie’s and receive $15 off per person for every tour after your first tour. Once you book your first tour, you will receive a confirmation email with your own personal discount code to apply to further web bookings.
Restrictions
-Can not be combined with any other discounts