4.9 (493) · Vancouver · By Prince of Whales Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures ▶ Watch the videoFree cancellation
Embark on one of our Salish Sea Catamarans – these are high-speed, luxury vessels custom-built for your comfort. With a total of 200 seats and a maximum capacity of 95 passengers, there's ample space to ensure safe distancing for all our guests.
Experience the grandeur of the Georgia Strait and Howe Sound in comfort as we search for native marine wildlife. Our local experts will share fascinating stories about the animals you encounter.
This is the ultimate whale watching experience for every adventurer.
Relax and enjoy the evening aboard our luxury catamaran, the Salish Sea Freedom or Dream, as we depart from Vancouver's False Creek.
This 3 to 5-hour tour is a favorite among photographers and offers a peaceful way to conclude your day, watching the sunset over the Salish Sea.
✓ Vessel accommodating up to 95 passengers, featuring an indoor heated cabin with panoramic windows and open-air decks.✓ Two onboard restrooms for your convenience.✓ Complimentary tea, coffee, and hot chocolate.✓ Whale Sightings Guarantee: Receive complimentary tours from any location until you spot whales (fees may apply).✓ A captain and a team of 3-4 expert guides and naturalists.✓ A complimentary photo package showcasing the wildlife.✓ Children's coloring books and educational guides.✓ Downloadable tour guides available in English, Spanish, French, German, and Dutch.✕ Transportation to and from your hotel.✕ Taxes and fees associated with the Lifetime Whale Sighting Guarantee.Activity Schedule
5 h
Discover the stunning beauty of British Columbia on this half-day whale watching excursion departing from Vancouver.
Board a 'Salish Sea Catamaran' at Granville Island for an unforgettable adventure.
The crew is eager to explore the local waters in comfort and style, seeking out the majestic wildlife that inhabits this area during the summer months.
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Salish Sea while learning about the local geology and marine life.
Immerse yourself in this incredible experience as we capture high-resolution photos of the wildlife, the scenery, and your companions, all provided free of charge!
Prince of Whales Whale Watching
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. Please present one ticket per booking.
Please ensure you check in 30 minutes before your scheduled adventure time.
The meeting point is at 1666 Duranleau St on Granville Island, located behind Bridges restaurant.
Please note that the boat will not wait for late arrivals.
Please ensure you check in 30 minutes before your scheduled adventure time.
The meeting point is at 1666 Duranleau St on Granville Island, located behind Bridges restaurant.
Please note that the boat will not wait for late arrivals.
Important: You must check in 30 minutes prior to your scheduled adventure time.
Due to the nature of this tour and for the safety of all guests, the tour operator reserves the right to deny service to passengers who are intoxicated or exhibit signs of intoxication. If your tour is canceled as a result, no refund will be provided.
A minimum number of participants is required. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are insufficient passengers. In such cases, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
Guests are advised to dress warmly in layers for their tour. Wear pants and bring a sweatshirt. A jacket or windbreaker is recommended to protect against the wind. Avoid wearing open-toed shoes or sandals.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Infants must be seated on an adult's lap. Service animals are permitted. Public transportation is conveniently accessible nearby. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. The tour operates in most weather conditions; please dress appropriately. A minimum number of participants is required. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet requirements. In the event of this occurring, an alternative or full refund will be offered. Service animals are allowed with proper documentation and a life jacket. An email address will be provided to receive your wildlife photo package. Check-in is required 30 minutes before the departure time. Prince of Whales reserves the right to request the credit card used for booking and/or a photo ID at check-in. Half-Day Whale Watching VAN Half-Day Whale Watching Van This is a 3-5 hour adventure. Please check in 30 minutes prior to the departure time. Dress in warm layers, including a windbreaker or jacket. Wear closed-toe shoes; no sandals or open-toed footwear. Arrive at the check-in point 30 minutes before your departure time. Be prepared for most weather conditions. Service animals require proper documentation and a life jacket. For a full refund, please cancel your booking at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 5882P27
Activity offered by Prince of Whales Whale & Marine Wildlife Adventures via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature enthusiasts Wildlife lovers Photographers Families Couples Luxury catamaran experience on the Salish Sea. Search for diverse marine wildlife including whales. Stunning sunset views over the water. Expert guides providing insightful commentary. Complimentary high-resolution wildlife photos. Comfortable onboard amenities.
Population 662,248 (2021)
Elevation 2 m
Currency Canadian dollar
Official languages English, French
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Ottawa Average temperatures -1° Jan -1° Feb 2° Mar 5° Apr 10° May 13° Jun 16° Jul 16° Aug 13° Sept 8° Oct 2° Nov -1° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the whale watching tour? + The tour lasts between 3 to 5 hours.
What should I wear on the tour? + Guests are advised to dress warmly in layers, wear pants, and bring a sweatshirt. A jacket or windbreaker is recommended. Avoid open-toed shoes or sandals.
Is there a guarantee of seeing whales? + Yes, there is a Whale Sightings Guarantee, offering complimentary tours until you see whales (fees may apply).
Can I bring my pet on the tour? + Service animals are permitted with proper documentation and a life jacket. Pets are not mentioned.
What happens if the tour is canceled due to weather or insufficient participants? + If the tour is canceled due to bad weather or not enough participants, you will be offered an alternative or a full refund.
When do I need to check in for the tour? + You need to check in 30 minutes before your scheduled adventure time.
Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Amazing
Resort04762763759, September 2026
Best day ever! We saw orcas and humpbacks. and the guides Belen, Petra and Dawson were fantastic and knew everything. Free photos too. 10/10, go!
Response from the operator · PrinceOfWhalesTeam Thank you so much for the amazing review! We’re thrilled to hear you had such a memorable sunset adventure and got to see both orcas and humpback whales.
We’ll be sure to pass your kind words along to Belen, Petra, and Dawson. We’re so glad you enjoyed their knowledge and the free photos too!
Thanks again for joining us, and we hope to see you back on the water for another adventure!
★★★★★ Viator review
Overall good experience
Patti_K, September 2026
The staff and captain did their best to find marine life! The ride was good, even for a choppy ride out. The staff is very informative and friendly!
We were slightly disappointed with our views. I do understand they have to maintain a distance for the boat. The whales just didn't cooperate for a good view/show. The staff did their best to get us to see the sea lions, orcas, and humpbacks. Sightings are not guaranteed. The staff photography - meh...
Response from the operator · PrinceOfWhalesTeam Thank you for sharing your experience, Patti! We’re glad you enjoyed the tour and found our crew friendly and informative. Wildlife can certainly be unpredictable, and while we always hope for those spectacular close encounters, the animals ultimately decide what we get to see. We’re happy our crew was able to show you sea lions, orcas, and humpbacks along the way, and we appreciate your feedback regarding the photography as well.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Whale Watching in Vancouver
joshwP4835PK, August 2026
Extraordinary experience! We went whale watching while we were in Vancouver. We saw Humpback whales, killer whales (orca’s) and harbour porpoise. Our naturalist Caitlin did an incredible job of walking us through entire process! The rest of the crew, Sebastian, Fox, Steven and Roman were great. Overall the experience was fantastic and I’ll certainly be returning on my next trip to Vancouver.
Response from the operator · PrinceOfWhalesTeam Thank you for the fantastic review! We’re so glad you had such an extraordinary experience during your time in Vancouver and enjoyed the variety of marine wildlife you encountered. It’s wonderful to hear that Caitlin’s knowledge and guidance added so much to your tour, and that you had such a great experience with the entire crew.
Thank you for joining us and for your kind words about the team. We’re delighted to hear that you’re planning to return, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another adventure!
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Fantastic Whale watching adventure
882harjinderg, August 2026
We had a fantastic experience on this whale watching tour. The boat was comfortable and spacious, with plenty of room to take pictures, and the staff were friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful throughout the trip.
My husband and I were incredibly lucky to see a humpback whale, killer whales, sea lions, seals, a bald eagle, and even an otter!
The highlight was definitely seeing the killer whales. They were very close to the boat, so the engines were switched off, allowing us to experience them in complete silence and actually hear their sounds. It was absolutely surreal and something we’ll never forget.
The company also took professional photos during the tour, which we received afterwards. This is a lovely bonus and a great way to remember such a special experience.
We would highly recommend booking this tour. It was truly unforgettable and one of the highlights of our trip!
Response from the operator · PrinceOfWhalesTeam Thank you so much for the fantastic review! We are so delighted you were riding in comfort with us as you explored with us and had a marvelous time with our expert crew!
What a brilliant day filled with the wonders of the Salish Sea, such a delight to see both orcas and humpback whales! It is always so much fun to watch the rambunctious sea lions and adorable harbour seals. Taking in the sounds of the killer whales is truly a breathtaking experience, and we are so glad we could share that with you, and we are thrilled you enjoyed the complimentary photo package! We hope we will get to welcome you back for more enchanting adventures!
★★★★★ Viator review
Truly special experience....
Lukas_K, August 2026
Truly special experience. A few hours out on the water. Saw two orcas, a whole group of seals and sea lions, and a bunch of humpback whales! At one point we were surrounded on all sides by humpbacks. Incredibly special. They're beautiful. Sublime honestly.
And the wnaturalists on board provided a ton of really cool information about the animals, answered questions, were super friendly. Really great! On our ride we had Tamsin, Fox, and Caitlin who did an awesome job.
Response from the operator · PrinceOfWhalesTeam Thank you for such a wonderful review! We’re so glad you had such a special experience and were able to see orcas, seals, sea lions, and so many humpback whales. Being surrounded by humpbacks must have been an incredible moment. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with Tamsin, Fox, and Caitlin. We hope to see you again!
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