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Observe Grizzly Bears and Orcas in Johnstone Strait - Sailing

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Cruise the waters around Knight Inlet on these sailing tours around northern Vancouver Island

Overview

This sailing tour allows you to observe and participate in some of the research of the amazing whales.

Highlights

  • Grizzly bears
  • Orcas
  • Johnstone Strait
  • Vancouver Island' wildlife
  • History and traditions of the Kwakwaka'wakw people (Kwakiutl)

At the northern end of Vancouver Island lies a maze of islands and waterways, full of wildlife, beautiful scenery, and the history and traditions of the Kwakwaka’wakw people (Kwakiutl). The Pacific Ocean funnels into the protected waters of Johnstone Strait creating strong tidal currents, and incredibly nutrient-rich waters. Millions of salmon, returning to spawn in the mainland rivers, must converge to pass through the Strait. Groups of Northern Resident Killer Whales hunt the salmon in the passages and Humpback whales are often seen feeding in the nutrient-rich waters.

The waters of Johnstone Strait are considered one of the best places in the world to observe Orcinus orca, killer whales. We also expect to see a diversity of other marine mammals, including humpback whales, birds, black bears, and a chance to view grizzly bears in the fjords that neighbor this area.

The Kwakwaka’wakw people from most of the old villages in this region moved to the government-run cannery town of Alert Bay throughout the 1900’s. The U’Mista Cultural Centre in Alert Bay displays traditional potlatch masks and other interesting cultural artifacts.

  • Personal Experience
  • Trusted Tour Operator
  • Local Guides
  • Small group
Availability July - Oct
Duration 7 days
Departs From Port McNeill, BC
Group maximum 16
Difficulty Easy / Moderate Suitable for most people in fair condition.
Meet on Location Yes
Pick Up No
Region British Columbia

From

4 655
Per
Adult
  • Best Price Guarantee
  • International number: +1 778 348 1676

Availability 2025:
Based on double occupancy.

  • August 4-10
  • August 11-17
Price: $6540 CAD per person

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What's Included

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Included

  • The fully equipped vessel has safety equipment
  • Electronic navigation
  • Two inflatable rafts for onshore exploration
  • Double kayaks are available for use

Suggested Clothing

  • Rain gear
  • Rubber boots
  • Warm jacket
  • Hat
  • Gloves
  • Long underwear
  • Long pants
  • Shorts
  • Warm socks
  • T-shirts
  • Swimsuit
  • Sweater
  • Sneakers
  • Hiking boots

What to bring

  • Sleeping bag or sheets (required)
  • Blankets (required)
  • Pillow case (required)
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Daypack
  • Sunglasses
  • Water bottle

Contact us for more Information about this tour

INTERNATIONAL NUMBER: +1 778 348 1676

You can also send an email to info@adventures.com, or use the contact form here below.

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Practical Information

Find out more details about the tour

Information

Guide information: The crews are experienced sailors and naturalists with extensive knowledge of the area. They will teach you about the diverse natural history of the area.

Comments: $200 CAD Sustainability Fee applies to all tours.

Transportation: Trips originate and end in Port McNeill, British Columbia located on the northeast side of Vancouver Island.

Weather: Summer temperatures are pleasant and average between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius.

The boat is a custom 68-foot ketch, launched in 1983. The boat's design, safety and comfort make her perfect for these trips. She features 8 private cabins (double occupancy), 3 heads with hot showers, a large comfortable lounge with an extensive library, and a well-equipped galley. On deck, the large covered seating area provides protection in all types of weather. She is large enough for comfort, privacy and safety, and small enough to create a good rapport among passengers and crew.

A certified Canadian Ministry of Transport passenger vessel, she has all of the safety equipment, electronic navigation aids, and features you would expect from a vessel of her standard. All of our cabins have adequate storage space for your bags, personal items and jackets. Coat hangers and life jackets are stowed in every cabin for your convenience. There is electricity in each room, so you can charge your camera batteries and enjoy a reading light in the evening.

Featuring 8 private cabins, 3 heads with showers, large salon and lounge areas, extensive reading libraries, galley, - These vessels are perfect for our adventures. Guests continually comment on how the vessel was more than suitable for their needs. To add to the comfort, gourmet food is served, complimentary wine each day and a wilderness setting all give a great ambiance to these special voyages.

The meals aboard have been described has excellent, gourmet and abundant.  Fresh wholesome meals are served with a varied menu.

Payment Details

Deposit and Taxes

  • Pricing does not include: 5.00% GST.
  • A $1000.00 per person deposit is required to hold your reservation.
  • Balance of payment is due 90 days before trip commencement.

 

CANCELLATION POLICY & DETAILS

50% of the deposit is refundable for cancellation more than 90 days prior to departure. No penalty if you transfer to another trip. If you give notice of cancellation 90 days or less prior to departure, no refund is given.

We do strongly recommend travel insurance/trip cancellation insurance.