Kayak with Whales

Kayaking amongst Vancouver Island's southern resident orca whales is undoubtedly one of the most exhilarating marine experiences you will encounter on Vancouver Island.

Comprised of three distinct groups or pods of whales, (J, K, and L), the southern resident orca whales visit the southeast shores of Vancouver Island from April to October every year. It is not uncommon to simultaneously witness all three orca pods numbering over 83 in total. These sophisticated marine mammals will leave you breathless as they gently surface from the Pacific waters while you observe them from the comfort of a sea kayak.

Kayak with Vancouver Island’s Southern Resident Orca Whales Tour is led by a professional kayak guide and experienced boat captain.

  • No kayaking experience is necessary.
  • Small tour groups only - 4 people minimum, 5 people maximum.
  • Tours depart daily from Cowichan Bay, Vancouver Island.
  • Tour Length: 4-5 Hours
  • Price: $250.00 Canadian per person + GST.
  • 50% non-refundable deposit due upon booking
Our Kayaking with Whales day tour begins with an exciting ride in a 23 foot zodiac boat,taking you from Cowichan Bay in search of the orca whales. As these fascinating creatures travel at varying speeds (anywhere between 3 to 12 knots), and can cover vast expanses of water in short periods of time, the geographical location of this tour is dictated by the movement patterns of the whales on the day of your tour. We are a member of a local whale spotting network which provides hourly updates on the location of the whales.

50% non-refundable deposit due upon booking 		 








This marine tour is safely led by an experienced boat captain and a professional kayak guide. All participants receive an instructional kayak safety briefing prior to leaving Cowichan Bay. Kayaking experience is not necessary. Each tour is limited to a maximum of five clients, ensuring a very personal marine expedition.

Our Kayaking with Whales day tour is offered daily from May through to October and departs from picturesque Cowichan Bay on the southeastern shores of Vancouver Island.

Your Kayak with Whales Itinerary
Arrive at Cowichan Bay, and meet the boat captain and kayak guide.

Get fitted for a cruiser suit (a one-piece floatation device designed for warmth and comfort),and gloves,hat,and goggles.

Receive a kayak instructional ‘dock talk’ from the kayak guide who will explain basic kayaking skills,including safety and entering/exiting a kayak.

Get into the zodiac and receive a safety briefing from the boat captain.

Depart Cowichan Bay in search of orca whales. Along the way explore the fantastic scenery and marine wildlife.

Once the whales are discovered, they are observed for 10-15 minutes to determine their movement and direction.

Kayaks are unloaded into the water and with the assistance of the boat captain and kayak guide, clients enter kayaks.

Kayak guide and clients paddle amongst the southern resident orca whales, observing all Whale Watching Guidelines.

Return to the zodiac and Cowichan Bay.

The Passat kayak has greater stability than most single kayaks. It tracks well, with or without the rudder, edges easily and can tour at 5 knots. It is safe, strong, and seaworthy even in challenging waters. This kayak’s "Greenland" style bow, sleek graceful lines, solid feel and expedition capacity make a combination of speed, comfort and storage that is unrivalled in a touring double.

Our kayak guides are certified by the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of British Columbia, a non-profit society which upholds high standards for professional sea kayak guides and operators in BC. Through ongoing professional development and certification, the Alliance strives to ensure safe practices on an industry-wide basis. Each participant receives a thorough Kayak Safety Briefing.

The Ocean Ecoventures team is dedicated to responsible wildlife viewing and follows the marine mammal guidelines as set forth by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Whale Watching Operator’s Association Northwest.

The Whale Watching Operator’s Association Northwest is a group of companies dedicated to responsible wildlife viewing. With the help of marine biologists and researchers we have developed a set of guidelines for operating vessels around the Orcas and other wildlife, for both commercial and recreational boaters. Respecting the wildlife and following these guidelines will help ensure the safety and happiness of the whales for generations to come.