Best grizzly bear tours on Vancouver Island BC

Taking a grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island in British Columbia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is on many peoples’ Canada bucket lists. It’s one of the best things to do during a trip to Vancouver Island and getting to see a grizzly bear in the wild is an incredible experience.

Vancouver Island is well known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the presence of grizzly bears in their natural habitat. These magnificent creatures are an iconic symbol of the wild and untamed wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, and seeing them is absolutely magical.

During a trip to Campbell River on Vancouver Island, I was lucky enough to take a grizzly bear tour. It was primarily a whale-watching tour but we saw grizzly bears as well as black bears and some cubs. The knowledgeable guides provided insights into the lives of these animals and ensured that all rules were followed, staying at a respectful distance.

One of the standout features of grizzly bear tours on Vancouver Island is the stunning scenery. The island is home to towering old-growth forests and a rugged coastline. But the real highlight of these tours, of course, is the chance to see grizzly bears in their natural habitat.

These Vancouver Island grizzly tours are operated by tour guides who are knowledgeable about the habits and behaviours of these creatures and provide insightful commentary about their life in the wild.

If you’re looking for the best grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island I’ve picked out the best based on my experiences, and other peoples’ reviews. Pack your bags and get excited, because we’re going on a bear hunt where we’ll be bear watching in British Columbia!

Stay in one of these unique stays in Victoria BC before your trip!

My pick of the best grizzly bear watching Vancouver Island offers

If you’re looking for a quick answer to the best grizzly bear tours BC, I’ve picked out the best grizzly bear tours in Vancouver Island and whale-watching tours on Vancouver Island for you below.

• Best budget-friendly wildlife tour: 4 hour wildlife discovery tour from Campbell River
• Best for Indigenous history and wildlife: People, Water, Land tour
• Best for whale watching on Vancouver Island: Salish Sea whale watching adventure
• Best Grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island: Toba Inlet Full-day Grizzly bear watching tour
• Best wildlife watching tour from Victoria, BC: 3-hour whale watching tour from Victoria

What to know before booking a grizzly bear tour in BC

Before you book a grizzly bear or other wildlife watching tour in BC, there are several things you should know including what to pack and what to expect. Below are some things I learned during my whale watching tour from Campbell River.

• Pack warm gear! Though many of the operators will give you a suit you can wear to stay dryer and warmer, you’ll want warm gear underneath it and perhaps a woolly hat and/or gloves. The winds can be strong, especially if you’re going fast through the water and being cold will just make your day miserable.
• Seasickness: You’ll be on a boat for the majority (if not all) of your tour. If you suffer from motion sickness take a tablet, wear a seasickness bracelet or do whatever you know you need to do.
• Sensible footwear: I recommend hiking boots as they’ll keep your feet warm and be good for walking around if your tour includes a stop off at an island which many do for lunch or a snack.
• Animal sightings cannot be guaranteed: Though there is a high likelihood of seeing something during your wildlife-watching tour it cannot be guaranteed. These animals are wild and go where they like. Grizzly bears in particular are pretty elusive. Some tours will include a no wildlife sighting guarantee where you’ll get another tour free if you don’t see anything.

Full-Day Grizzly Bear watching in Vancouver Island at Toba Inlet

• Meeting point: Discovery Harbour Marina, Campbell River
• Duration: 8 hours
• Price: US$460 pp
• Reviews: 4.8/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

This full-day grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island’s Toba Inlet takes you on a boat cruise through Discovery Passage which is one of the best areas for bear watching in BC.

This part of Vancouver Island’s waterways is exceptionally scenic and there’s a great chance of seeing grizzly bears here as they prowl for salmon with their big grizzly bear claws!

Picture yourself gliding along Discovery Passage, taking in the breathtaking panoramic views as you approach Toba Inlet. And when you get off the boat, you’ll spend an amazing 3 hours spotting grizzly bears along the Campbell River. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t forget!

Not only will you see the grizzly bears, but you’ll also have the chance to see an array of other wildlife both on land and in the water. And let’s not forget about the breathtaking waterfalls of Toba Inlet, they’re such an incredible sight to behold!

Your guide will be a certified naturalist and a member of the Klahoose First Nation, who will share interesting facts about the environment and the rich history and legacy of the land.

Includes:

• Lunch
• Klahoose First Nation Indigenous Guide
• Certified naturalist captain

Guest reviews: “It was just a dream! A tour worth every penny. We saw 9 grizzlies, humpback whales, orcas and sea lions. Simply impressive to face the animals in their natural environment. Our guides were really great, they told us a lot about the way of life of the animals. Big thanks to the team for this unforgettable experience!”

Campbell River: Whale & Wildlife Discovery Cruise

• Meeting point: Campbell River Discovery Harbour Marina
• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Price: US$150 pp
• Reviews: 4.5/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

This is the tour my friends and I did while staying in Campbell River for a weekend and it was amazing. I think it’s the best bang for your buck out of the grizzly bear tours Campbell River has on offer.

We explored the wonders of the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait on this Campbell River whale and wildlife tour on Vancouver Island.

We saw black bears, killer whales, humpbacks (with a baby), porpoise sea lions and more. Some tour groups also see grizzly bears on this tour too and you’ll definitely be amazed by the stunning scenery and incredible wildlife that call this place home.

Onboard your chosen vessel, be it a covered boat with indoor seating or a zodiac-style boat perfect for those who love the outdoors, you’ll learn from an expert naturalist about the animals you might see as well as the history of the area. 

This whale, wildlife and grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island also includes the use of hydrophones. With these, you can listen in to the sounds of whales and other marine creatures as you journey through the waterways.

During your boat trip through the Salish Sea, Discovery Passage, and Johnstone Strait, you might just catch a glimpse of humpback whales, killer whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, bears, Steller sea lions, and so much more. 

Includes:

• Boat cruise
• Snacks and beverages
• Naturalist guide
• Live commentary onboard

Guest reviews: “Thank you for this once-in-a-lifetime experience! The youth group we took could not stop talking about the whales and the cool stories/ info that was given. Thank you for being so accommodating and fun and knowledgeable! I will highly recommend this tour to anyone!”

Campbell River: Bute Inlet Grizzly-Watching Tour & Boat Ride

• Meeting point: Campbell River Marina
• Duration: 9 hours
• Price: US$477 pp
• Reviews: 5/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

This full-day grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island takes you to the Bute Inlet which is one of the best grizzly bear-watching opportunities in the world.  

Get ready for a breathtaking boat ride through the magnificent Discovery Islands and make sure to keep your eyes peeled for marine wildlife, including whales. In this water, you can often see humpback whales as well as orcas or killer whales as they’re also known.

You’ll have plenty of time to soak in the scenery and spot whales as you cruise through the Orford River.

Upon arrival in Bute Inlet, you’ll meet your local Homalco First Nation guides who are experts in all things grizzly bears. Climb aboard the van and get ready to transfer to the viewing platforms, where you’ll get to see these majestic creatures up close (well, as close as it is safe for both you and them!). 

The specially designed platforms are situated above the salmon spawning channel and offer unobstructed views of the bears as they roam the river banks.

Make sure to bring your cameras, as this will be the perfect opportunity for a photo shoot with these magnificent creatures during your grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island. 

Your guides, who are certified naturalists, will also educate you on the history and importance of grizzly bears to the Indigenous communities and the environment. So, not only will you get to witness these amazing creatures in the wild, but you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for these magnificent animals.

Don’t worry about getting hungry or cold, as you’ll be provided with a light snack, hot chocolate, coffee or tea, and lunch to keep you energized and warm throughout the day. 

Includes:

• Boat transport to and from Campbell River
• Van transport to viewing platforms
• Tour guide
• Light snack
• Lunch
• Coffee, hot chocolate, and tea

Campbell River: Salish Sea Whale-Watching Adventure

• Meeting point: Campbell River Coast Marina
• Duration: 4 hours
• Price: US$175 pp
• Reviews: 4.8/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime marine adventure with an award-winning Indigenous tour operator with this wildlife and grizzly bear watching tour on Vancouver Island.

Discover the magnificent creatures of the Salish Sea, including humpback whales, orcas, dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and more.

Travel on a modern and comfortable vessel, equipped with an onboard toilet as you set out from Campbell River and make your way to the Discovery Islands. 

Your guide is a knowledgeable marine wildlife naturalist who will help you spot a variety of avian species, including bald eagles, and an array of marine mammals in their natural habitat.

Listen as your Indigenous guides share their rich cultural knowledge of the area and its history, legends, and stories. 

From the breathtaking views of the mountainous coastline to the chance to see black bears, sea otters, and rarer species of whales, this whale-watching adventure is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

Whale watching tour from Victoria BC

• Meeting point: Behind the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina in Victoria
• Duration: 3 hours
• Price: US$123 pp
• Reviews: 4.6/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

Get kicked up from your accommodation in Victoria BC and head off on an unforgettable whale-watching tour from Vancouver Island.

Your guides and captain know where to look to increase your chances of seeing transient and resident orcas (killer whales), humpbacks, minke and grey whales.

Onboard the boat you’ll have access to free tea and coffee, onboard bathrooms and both indoor and outdoor viewing areas to help keep you comfortable whatever the weather.

But the adventure doesn’t stop at whales! You may also see Dall’s and harbour porpoises, harbour and elephant seals, playful otters, and marine birds like cormorants and bald eagles.

Plan your trip during peak whale watching season, which spans from April to October, maximizing your chances of witnessing these magnificent creatures in action. In the unlikely event that your tour doesn’t result in a whale sighting, you’ll get a second tour for free.

Includes:

• Hotel pickup and drop-off from downtown Victoria
• Hot drinks
• Marine guides
• Whale sighting guarantee
• Conservation fee

Guest reviews: “We saw beautiful Orcas and a big bonus is they encourage you to just enjoy and watch with your eyes and they take pictures that are uploaded and shared for FREE! We had a great time“

Full-Day Grizzly Bear Tour

• Meeting point: E Dock, Campbell River
• Duration: 8-10 hours
• Price: US$486 pp
• Reviews: 4.5/5
• Where to book: On Viator

Get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure as you embark on a small-group grizzly bear tour in the Homalco First Nation’s traditional territory. 

With a focus on wildlife viewing and safety, this Vancouver Island grizzly bear tour offers elevated viewing platforms and trained bear guides to help you spot these magnificent and beautiful animals in their natural habitat.

Hop aboard a comfortable, covered vessel and travel from the Campbell River waterfront out to the wilderness. 

The group size is limited to just 12 people which means you’ll have more opportunities to see grizzly bears hunting and swimming in their natural environment without having to clamber over people. 

Stay fuelled throughout the day with a delicious lunch, snacks, and hot drinks provided onboard during this grizzly bear tour in Vancouver Island. 

Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a unique outdoor experience, this grizzly bear tour is a must-do adventure. 

Campbell River: Waterfall and Wildlife Guided Boat Tour

• Meeting point: Brown’s Bay Marina, Campbell River BC
• Duration: 6 hours
• Price: US$199 pp
• Reviews: 5/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

Get ready for an unforgettable springtime experience in stunning British Columbia! Join a guided boat tour from Campbell River and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the coast.

Depart from the Brown’s Bay Marina on Vancouver Island and board a custom-designed vessel, featuring bench-style seating and a heated cabin to keep you comfortable and cosy as you head out on this waterfall and wildlife and grizzly bear tour on Vancouver Island.

As you set sail, be prepared to be awed by the spring landscapes and waterfalls that come to life after a long winter.

Spot mumma bears with their babies that come out to forage for food along the shore and keep an eye out for orcas and humpback whales, which are known to frequent these waters during the annual herring spawn in spring. This is also the time when these gentle giants return to their summer feeding grounds, so you may even catch a glimpse of them.

Your onboard naturalist will provide insights into the local wildlife, habitats, and geography, making this an educational tour, as well as a visually stunning adventure. 

The tour also includes hydrophones too which allow you to hear the sounds of the whales underneath the sea.

Take a break from your journey and enjoy a delicious homemade lunch with a refreshing drink, while you soak in the peaceful surroundings.

Includes:

• Boat tour
• Guide
• Packed lunch

Spring Bear & Waterfall tour

• Meeting point: Campbell River Marina
• Duration: 6 hours
• Price: US$194 pp
• Reviews: 5/5
• Where to book: Through FareHarbour

Experience the beauty of nature awakening after a long winter on this Spring Discovery Grizzly Bear Tour!

On this 6-hour Campbell River bear watching trip aboard a comfortable, covered boat, you’ll explore the beautiful inlets around Campbell River and British Columbia’s coast.

You’ll be amazed by the waterfalls cascading down the rugged cliffs, and make sure you keep your eyes open for wildlife making their seasonal return.

Get ready to be amazed by the sight of majestic sea lions, vibrant sea birds, and orcas and be among the first to spot humpback whales as they grace our northern waters once again on this springtime wildlife trip!

But the true highlight of this adventure is the opportunity to observe bears in their natural habitat, foraging along the shoreline as they emerge from their hibernation for a delicious seafood feast of crabs, mussels, oysters, and more.

Vancouver Island: Coastal Adventure from Brown’s Bay

• Meeting point: Campbell River, Browns Bay Resort & Marina
• Duration: 4 hours
• Price: US$161 pp
• Reviews: 5/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

This once-in-a-lifetime springtime adventure grizzly bear tour from Vancouver Island in British Columbia is one of the best ways to experience Vancouver Island’s wildlife. 

This Vancouver Island wildlife tour leaves from Brown’s Bay Marina in Campbell River and whisks you out to the beautiful islands and coastline of this area.

Your guide will either take you to the north where the Seymour Narrows and Okisollo Channel await, or to the south around Quadra Island. Their choice often depends on where the most recent wildlife sightings have come from to ensure you get maximum sightings yourself.

Spot some friendly harbour seals, porpoises, and the mighty Bald Eagle from the comfort of the boat. 

If you’re lucky, you will be greeted by larger creatures, such as humpbacks, orcas and Pacific white-sided dolphins too.

The tour runs for approximately 4 hours and returns back to the dock at Brown’s Bay Marina. Hopefully, you’ll have seen loads of wildlife along the way! 

Vancouver Island: Grizzly Bears of Bute Inlet in Orford Bay

• Meeting point: Campbell River Coast Marina
• Duration: 8.5 hours
• Price: US$404 pp
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

Step into the heart of Canada’s wilderness with Campbell River’s original grizzly bear tour company, as you journey to the traditional territory of the Homalco First Nation to witness grizzlies in the wild on this Bute Inlet grizzly bear tour.

This is one of the best Campbell River grizzly bear tours and offers a full-day adventure with a one-of-a-kind experience, offering the chance to see some of Canada’s most iconic wildlife in its natural habitat.

Sail through the stunning Salish Sea and Orford Bay, where you’ll spot an abundance of marine life, from humpback whales and sea lions to orcas and colourful sea birds.

As you arrive at the dock in Orford Bay, prepare to embark on a 3-hour land experience guided by First Nation experts. They’ll take you to raised viewing platforms and prime ground locations to search for grizzlies and other wildlife, such as elk and bald eagles while sharing knowledge about the bears, salmon, and the rich history and culture of the Homalco people.

Savour a delicious lunch with an unobstructed view of the estuary and its mountain surroundings, and listen as your Indigenous guide shares insights into the nation-run salmon enhancement hatchery.

With a small group size and comfortable, heated tour boats complete with indoor seating and a toilet, this full-day excursion is the perfect trip of a lifetime for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Vancouver Island: People Water Land – Indigenous & Whales

• Meeting point: Campbell River Coast Marina
• Duration: 5 hours
• Price: US$237 pp
• Reviews: 5/5
• Where to book: On GetYourGuide

This unique whale and grizzly bear-watching tour on Vancouver Island is not just an incredible experience but an educational journey that combines whale watching and cultural immersion at the historic First Nation village site of Aupe. 

Set sail on a custom landing craft boat, designed for comfort and convenience, with inside and outside seating and a toilet on board.

Take in the stunning coastal scenery as you search for some of the most magnificent marine animals, such as orcas, humpbacks, dolphins, and sea lions, in the Salish Sea. 

Learn about the Indigenous history and culture of the Xwémalhkwu (Homalco) people from a knowledgeable First Nations guide, who will share traditional stories, language, and legends throughout your journey.

You’ll leave your boat partway through the tour and step onto the shores of a former village site. You’ll be taken through the rich history of the Homalco people and get hands-on with cedar bark weaving. 

You’ll also have the chance to make your own cedar bracelet while observing the natural beauty of the area. You might even see some black bears which are known to live here! 

 Includes:

• Lunch snacks, and beverages
• Live commentary with First Nation guide

Final thoughts on the best grizzly bear tours, Vancouver Island

When it comes to where to see grizzly bears in BC, Vancouver Island is one of the best places. Starting your grizzly bear tour from Vancouver Island in British Columbia on the Salish Sea offers breathtaking wildlife experiences that are not to be missed.

Whether it’s a guided boat tour from Campbell River, navigating ocean rapids and discovering the natural beauty of the coast, or embarking on a cultural and whale-watching adventure to the historic First Nation village site of Aupe, there is something for everyone on this list of the best bear tours Vancouver Island has to offer.

These Vancouver Island wildlife and grizzly bear tours are not just about sightseeing, but also an educational experience where you’ll learn more about the local wildlife, its habitats, geography, and culture.

My personal favourite is this full-day grizzly bear tour from Vancouver Island which gets great reviews with many guests seeing grizzlies, eagles, whales and more wildlife during their day trip.

What are you waiting for? Book your Vancouver Island grizzly bear tour now!

FAQs on grizzly bear Vancouver Island tours

Have questions about the grizzly bear tours Vancouver Island has on offer? You might find the answer below.

Last Updated on June 2, 2023 by Hannah