Tofino offers the best coastline for viewing black bears in their natural habitat! Our bear watching tours cruise through the protected and calm inlets of Clayoquot Sound to view wildlife and the scenic views.

Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure with our Bear Watching Tours, promising an unforgettable glimpse into the world of black bears within their natural habitat. Witness these majestic creatures as they emerge from the rainforest and venture down to the beach, all from the comfort of our boat. Tofino's lush environment provides ample sustenance for black bears, from berries to crabs and fish, enriching their foraging experience.

During this immersive two and a half hour excursion, encounter an array of wildlife, including bald eagles, harbour seals, porpoises, blue herons, and more. Our knowledgeable guides are adept at deciphering bear behavior, emphasizing the importance of respecting their space and refraining from disrupting their natural activities.

Bear Watching in Tofino is a cherished pursuit among nature enthusiasts and visitors alike, offering not only wildlife sightings but also scenic vistas, conservation insights, and enduring memories. Family-friendly and set against the backdrop of calm, protected waters, our Bear Watching Tour promises a serene and captivating experience for all.

As black bears awaken from hibernation in April, our tours run until early October, coinciding with their migration to rivers in search of salmon. Choose between our Covered Cabin Cruiser Boats featuring back viewing decks or the Open Deck Boston Whaler Boats, both offering optimal vantage points for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.

 

BEAR WATCHING - OPEN BOAT

DEPARTURE TIMES:

All tours are posted on our Booking Page online or view our calendar below.

BEAR WATCHING TOUR RATES:

Adult: $159
Senior (65+) & Youth (13-18): $149
Children (2-12): $129
Private (up to 12 guests): $1,600

BOAT: 30 Foot Open Deck Boat

TOUR DURATION: 2.5 Hours

  • Open Boston Whaler Boat, seats 12 passengers.

  • All guests will wear a Mustang Floater Suit.

  • Check-in time for the tour is 30 minutes before departure time.

  • Departure times vary depending on low tides & daylight.

  • Prices displayed do not include taxes & fees.

  • This boat does not allow infants.

BEAR WATCHING - CABIN CRUISER BOAT

DEPARTURE TIMES:

All tours are posted on our Booking Page online or view our calendar below.

BEAR WATCHING TOUR RATES:

Adult: $159
Senior (65+) & Youth (13-18): $149
Children (2-12): $129
Private (up to 12 guests): $1,600

BOAT: 30 ft Cabin Cruiser Boat with open back deck

TOUR DURATION: 2.5 Hours

  • Cabin Cruiser Boat with open back deck, seats 12 passengers.

  • Departure times vary depending on low tides & daylight.

  • Prices displayed do not include taxes & fees.

  • Check-in time for the tour is 30 minutes before departure time.

  • One free infant per tour. First come, first served. All infants under 9 months need to be in a front carrier.

Embark on an unforgettable journey during the 2024 bear watching season in Tofino! Dive into the serene inlets and pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound aboard our family-friendly cruiser for an enchanting bear watching tour. Seeking more excitement book the open boat bear watching adventure, or inquire about our private charters catering to up to 12 guests. Book your experience now through the calendar below!

FIND YOUR DATE AND BOOK

PREPARE FOR YOUR BEAR WATCHING TOUR

  • No food or beverages (other than water) is allowed on the boat during the Bear Watching Tour.

  • Guests are advised not to wear strong smelling deodorants, cologne or perfumes on the tour.

  • Noise and movement must be kept to a minimum aboard the vessels to not disturb the black bears.

  • Smoking or vaping is not permitted on the boat or in our safety gear at any time.

Tofino Bear Watching Tour
Bear Watching Tofino
Bear Watching Tofino

WHAT TO BRING:

  • Dress warmly in layers for the open boat (long sleeves, pants, fleece or sweater)

  • Rain gear (if it is raining)

  • Enclosed shoes (sandals not recommended)

  • Winter hat and gloves (early Spring / late Fall)

  • Binoculars

  • Camera

  • Drinking water

  • Sunglasses / sunscreen

  • Your sense of adventure!

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

  • Full Mustang Floater Suits (XS to XXXL) for your safety and protection from ocean spray & cool air.

WHAT WILL WE SEE ON THE BEAR TOUR:

  • Black Bears! Plus Harbour Seals, Bald Eagles, Great Blue Heron and occasionally we see Coastal Grey Wolves and Killer Whales.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

  • Check in for your tour 30 minutes before departure time.

  • Make sure you read & understand our booking policies and waiver terms before processing your reservation.

  • Read our cancellation policy and note we have a 48 hour policy to cancel.

  • These trips may not be suitable for people who are pregnant or with serious back or neck problems - please let us know at time of booking of any such conditions.

  • Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check-in. Participants must be 19 years of age or require a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf.

  • An eco wildlife conservation fee of $3 will be added to each fare in support of maintaining the ecosystem in Clayoquot Sound.  

  • Multi-tour discounts, $15 off second and additional tours, contact us to book your tours so you receive the discount. 

  • Prices are subject to change.

  • Parking is available on our property but if the lot is full here is some parking information.

  • Our boats do not have washrooms on board.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • We see black bears on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

  • The Bear Watching Tours are 2.5 hours.

  • From April to October we see Black Bears on the low tide when they come down to the shoreline to forage on crabs and fish.

  • We are respectful of the black bears space and the fact that they are feeding.

  • We offer bear watching tours from April to October.

  • Our open air 12 passenger Boston Whaler vessels are excellent for viewing and photographing wildlife. With twin high horsepower engines you are ensured a safe and exhilarating ride through the waters off Tofino. The driver is located in the centre of the boat to ensure they can communicate with guests.

    Our 12 passenger Cabin Cruiser Boat is a comfortable and heated ride with an open back deck to view wildlife from. Perfect for days when you want to stay dry.

  • Please check-in at our office ready to go at 411 Campbell Street, 30 minutes before your departure time.

  • The Whale Centre has a 96% success rate of seeing black bears on tours. If you do not see a bear we will provide you a rain check and get you out on a tour to see bears in the future.

  • No. We remind you to use our office washroom before we get you into your floatation suit. We suggest not drinking a big coffee or drink right before your tour.

Do you want your own Private Bear Watching Tour?
Learn more about our private tour options.

Give the gift of a Tofino adventure!
Gift certificates for all of our tours can be purchased online.

How to book your tour:

  • BOOK ONLINE

  • CALL OUR OFFICE 1-888-474-2288

  • IN PERSON, VISIT OUR OFFICE AT 411 CAMPBELL STREET, TOFINO