whale watching eco-tours

Where Small Ships Craft Big Memories

Orca whale jumping out of the water on a clear sunny day
Graphic illustrative badge with the text 'Learn, Love, Conserve our Oceans' and a heart with an ocean wave in it
our vessels

Every Tour is a Unique Adventure

The beauty of exploration, is you never know what you’re going to get. From orcas to humpbacks, seals to sea lions, and everything in between, we’ve been exploring the Salish Sea for over 25 years. Whether you’re a local or visiting BC, our whale watching eco-tours are the perfect way to become one of the pod. We are proud to have a 97% success rate, but should you not see a whale, come back again free of charge thanks to our Whale Sighting Guarantee.

Zodiac style vessel on the water carrying a small load of whale watching passengers

Zodiac Tour

Our Zodiac, RIB style vessels offer an exhilarating, intimate and once-in-a-lifetime whale watching adventure! Suit up in our certified flotation suits for an open-style eco-tour, where you’ll experience BC’s unique magic, captured in every splash. This vessel has space for up to 12 passengers and includes a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
Sea spray
warning
Rates
All passengers (Ages 8+)
$182.00
Departure Times
APR 1 - Jun 14
12 pm
Jun 15 - Sept 1
9 am & 2 pm
Sept 2 - Oct 31
12 pm
Semi-enclosed style vessel on the water carrying a larger load of whale watching passengers

Large Vessel Tour

Our 40+ ft large vessels are perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. These vessels have plenty of space for up to 23 or 35 passengers with washrooms on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
Apr 1 - Jun 14
12 pm
Jun 15 - Sept 1
9 am & 2 pm
Sept 2 - Oct 31
12 pm

Are you a resident of BC?

Whale Watching discounts for local residents are available in both peak season and shoulder seasons. More information here.

book your tour
Graphic illustrative badge with the text 'Learn, Love, Conserve our Oceans' and a heart with an ocean wave in it
our vessels

Every Tour is a Unique Adventure

The beauty of exploration, is you never know what you’re going to get. From orcas to humpbacks, seals to sea lions, and everything in between, we’ve been exploring the Salish Sea for over 25 years. Whether you’re a local or visiting BC, our whale watching eco-tours are the perfect way to become one of the pod. We are proud to have a 97% success rate, but should you not see a whale, come back again free of charge thanks to our Whale Sighting Guarantee.

Zodiac style vessel on the water carrying a small load of whale watching passengers

Zodiac Tour

Our Zodiac, RIB style vessels offer an exhilarating, intimate and once-in-a-lifetime whale watching adventure! Suit up in our certified flotation suits for an open-style eco-tour, where you’ll experience BC’s unique magic, captured in every splash. This vessel has space for up to 12 passengers and includes a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
Sea spray
warning
Rates
All passengers (Ages 8+)
$182.00
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Semi-enclosed style vessel on the water carrying a larger load of whale watching passengers

Semi-Enclosed Tour

Our 40ft semi-enclosed vessels have both indoor and outdoor seating–perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. This vessel has plenty of space for up to 23 passengers and a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Semi-enclosed style vessel on the water carrying a larger load of whale watching passengers

Semi-Enclosed Tour

Our 40ft semi-enclosed vessels have both indoor and outdoor seating–perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. This vessel has plenty of space for up to 23 passengers and a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Graphic illustrative badge with the text 'Learn, Love, Conserve our Oceans' and a heart with an ocean wave in it
our vessels

Every Tour is a Unique Adventure

The beauty of exploration, is you never know what you’re going to get. From orcas to humpbacks, seals to sea lions, and everything in between, we’ve been exploring the Salish Sea for over 25 years. Whether you’re a local or visiting BC, our whale watching eco-tours are the perfect way to become one of the pod. We are proud to have a 97% success rate, but should you not see a whale, come back again free of charge thanks to our Whale Sighting Guarantee.

Zodiac style vessel on the water carrying a small load of whale watching passengers

Zodiac Tour

Our Zodiac, RIB style vessels offer an exhilarating, intimate and once-in-a-lifetime whale watching adventure! Suit up in our certified flotation suits for an open-style eco-tour, where you’ll experience BC’s unique magic, captured in every splash. This vessel has space for up to 12 passengers and includes a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
Sea spray
warning
Rates
All passengers (Ages 8+)
$182.00
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Semi-enclosed style vessel on the water carrying a larger load of whale watching passengers

Semi-Enclosed Tour

Our 40ft semi-enclosed vessels have both indoor and outdoor seating–perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. This vessel has plenty of space for up to 23 passengers and a washroom on board.

3+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Zodiac style vessel on the water carrying a small load of whale watching passengers

Semi-Enclosed Tour

Our 40ft semi-enclosed vessels have both indoor and outdoor seating–perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. This vessel has plenty of space for up to 23 passengers and a washroom on board.

4+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm
Zodiac style vessel on the water carrying a small load of whale watching passengers

Large Vessel Tour

Our 40+ ft large vessels are perfect for ocean adventurers of all ages! Enjoy your tour while in the comfort of a protected space or walk up to the upper viewing deck for a 360° view, it’s your choice. These vessels have plenty of space for up to 23 or 35 passengers with washrooms on board.

4+ hour
eco-tour
Washroom
on board
Whale sighting
Guarantee
360° viewing
platform
Rates
adults
$173.00
seniors (Ages 60+)
$150.00
Students (id required)
$150.00
children (ages 4-12)
$104.00
infants (ages 3 & under)
FREE!
Departure Times
April 1 - June 14
12:00pm
June 15 - September 1
9:00am & 2:00pm
September 2 - October 31
12:00pm

our location

Proudly Anchored in Steveston’s Legacy

Everyday we depart from the historic fishing village of Steveston, BC. There are many options for transportation to our location: 12551 No. 1 Road, Richmond, BC V7E 1T7

driving
Travel time:
  • Downtown Vancouver = 35-40 min
  • Vancouver International Airport = 15 min
transit

Via Canada Line (Richmond–Brighouse) and bus (Routes 401, 402, 406, or 407)

taxi/Ride share

Approx. $55 CAD each way from Downtown Vancouver. Ride share app prices may vary.

our shuttle service

Hotel to Harbour Hassle-Free

Add on our shuttle service to your Whale Watching Eco-Tour and enjoy hassle-free pickups from various locations within downtown Vancouver as well as hotels in Richmond. Our premium, air conditioned shuttles can fit up to 24 passengers and cost $20 CAD per person round trip.

Pick-Up for 9am Tours

From Vancouver - approx.
7:15AM - 7:45Am
From Richmond - 8:15AM

Pick-Up for 12pm Tours

From Vancouver - approx.
10:15AM - 10:45Am
From Richmond - 11:15AM

Pick-Up for 2pm Tours

From Vancouver - approx.
12:15PM - 12:45pm
From Richmond - 1:15PM

“Most convenient transportation from where we were staying – Hampton Inn, the driver Rob, was a welcoming and knowledgeable guy. Before boarding the boat, he shared a lot of itinerary details with us, making us full of anticipation.”

Melissa S

“Awesome service - travelled from downtown Vancouver to Richmond. Driver was helpful and friendly, the service ran on time and the bus was comfort was great. Would definitely recommend and use again.”

Miles L

“Very professional shuttle driver, informative and helpful. Pleasant transfer from downtown Hyatt Regency hotel to Steveston. If you don’t want to take a bus or pay premium for a cab, this is the best option.”

Luke S

what to know

Let’s Get You Prepared

Just as the whales can be unpredictable, so can the forecast! We highly recommend you dress comfy and warm as it can be up to 10 degrees colder out on the water.

We offer lunch options for just $15 CAD per person. Simply choose your preference during the booking process, and we’ll take care of the rest. Complimentary snacks and water are also provided onboard.

Have more questions about your adventure? Check out our FAQs for more information.

Waterproof windbreaker jackets
Long pants
closed-toe,
flat shoes
gloves & hats (for cooler days)
sunglasses & sunscreen
reusable
water bottle
camera/
gopro
binoculars
light snack
or packed lunch

Our Whale Sighting Guarantee

We are proud to have a 97% sighting success rate, but should you not see a whale, take advantage of our 100% Whale Sighting Guarantee. Come back again for free–no expiry!

Orca whale jumping out of the water on a clear sunny day

what you could see

Every Journey Promises Unique Possibilities

Almost 200 species of marine mammals and birds call the Salish Sea their home. From majestic whales, to playful sea lions and seals, our eco-tours offer a front-row seat to the diverse wonders of the Pacific and the world beneath the surface.
Large humpback whale jumping out of the water.

Humpback Whales

These majestic creatures are commonly seen during our whale watching tours, making frequent appearances from late spring to fall. Known for their acrobatic displays and distinct tail markings, humpbacks are a favourite among observers. Unlike orcas, they are filter feeders, consuming krill and small fish. While their presence is more predictable than that of some orca types, humpbacks maintain a nomadic lifestyle, covering vast distances during migration. Fun fact: humpbacks sing complex melodies which can last up to 20 minutes!

A group of harbour seals lounging on coastline rocks covered in seaweed and kelp.

Harbour Seals

These small and agile seals are a common sight throughout the year, and often during the spring and summer months they can be spotted sunning themselves on rocks or swimming near the shorelines. Harbour seals are known for their curious nature, occasionally approaching boats to get a closer look at onlookers. With their distinctive V-shaped nostrils and endearing expressions, these seals easily captivate the hearts of every observer. Fun fact: harbour seals are excellent divers, capable of reaching depths of up to 1,500 feet (457 meters)!

A group of three sea otters floating on their backs in calm ocean water.

And more!

Every eco-tour is different, that’s why we keep our eyes out for an array of other marine animals. Pacific white-sided dolphins can been seen showing off their flips and tricks. Both harbour porpoises and Dall’s porpoises might tag along, effortlessly riding the waves. Even sea otters can be seen near the shorelines and kelp beds. We might also spot different species such as various jellyfish, sea stars, octopuses, anemones, and more. Every trip is a chance to dive into the vibrant world of the Pacific coast.

Orca whale jumping out of the water on a clear sunny day, with the BC coastline behind it.

Orcas

Three distinct orca types can be found off the coast of BC: Resident, Transient, and Offshore. Offshore orcas reside in deeper waters and are seldom seen on whale watching tours. Resident orcas are more common, but are critically endangered and avoided on our trips to protect their fragile populations. Transient orcas are apex predators, and are often spotted from spring to fall, hunting a diverse diet that includes larger marine mammals. Fun fact: orcas' vocalizations are pod-specific and allow them to communicate and socially bond.

A sea lion sitting up, sunning itself on a coastline rock, and looking at the camera.

Sea lions

Sea lions are charismatic, social beings, often found in colonies where their playful interactions and vocalizations create an exciting spectacle. Steller sea lions, larger and distinct with their golden colour, and California sea lions, known for their agility and bark-like vocalizations, are frequently seen during our tours from late spring to early fall. Fun fact: sea lions are known for their agility in water, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 miles per hour.

A bald eagle perched on an evergreen tree branch, on a sunny day against a clear blue sky.

sea birds

The presence of sea birds serves as an indication of ecosystem health, as they contribute to regulating populations, cycling nutrients through guano, maintaining predator-prey dynamics, and adding much needed diversity. A wide variety of seabirds can be commonly observed on our Whale Watching tours. From soaring predators to agile divers, some of the birds you might encounter include: bald eagles, common murres, black oystercatchers, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, cormorants, and more!

Almost 200 species of marine mammals and birds call the Salish Sea their home. From majestic whales, to playful sea lions and seals, our eco-tours offer a front-row seat to the diverse wonders of the Pacific and the world beneath the surface.
Orca whale jumping out of the water on a clear sunny day, with the BC coastline behind it.

Orcas

Three distinct orca types can be found off the coast of BC: Resident, Transient, and Offshore. Offshore orcas reside in deeper waters and are seldom seen on whale watching tours. Resident orcas are more common, but are critically endangered and avoided on our trips to protect their fragile populations. Transient orcas are apex predators, and are often spotted from spring to fall, hunting a diverse diet that includes larger marine mammals. Fun fact: orcas' vocalizations are pod-specific and allow them to communicate and socially bond.

Large humpback whale jumping out of the water.

Humpback Whales

These majestic creatures are commonly seen during our whale watching tours, making frequent appearances from late spring to fall. Known for their acrobatic displays and distinct tail markings, humpbacks are a favourite among observers. Unlike orcas, they are filter feeders, consuming krill and small fish. While their presence is more predictable than that of some orca types, humpbacks maintain a nomadic lifestyle, covering vast distances during migration. Fun fact: humpbacks sing complex melodies which can last up to 20 minutes!

A sea lion sitting up, sunning itself on a coastline rock, and looking at the camera.

Sea lions

Sea lions are charismatic, social beings, often found in colonies where their playful interactions and vocalizations create an exciting spectacle. Steller sea lions, larger and distinct with their golden colour, and California sea lions, known for their agility and bark-like vocalizations, are frequently seen during our tours from late spring to early fall. Fun fact: sea lions are known for their agility in water, capable of reaching speeds up to 25 miles per hour.

A group of harbour seals lounging on coastline rocks covered in seaweed and kelp.

Harbour Seals

These small and agile seals are a common sight throughout the year, and often during the spring and summer months they can be spotted sunning themselves on rocks or swimming near the shorelines. Harbour seals are known for their curious nature, occasionally approaching boats to get a closer look at onlookers. With their distinctive V-shaped nostrils and endearing expressions, these seals easily captivate the hearts of every observer. Fun fact: harbour seals are excellent divers, capable of reaching depths of up to 1,500 feet (457 meters)!

A bald eagle perched on an evergreen tree branch, on a sunny day against a clear blue sky.

sea birds

The presence of sea birds serves as an indication of ecosystem health, as they contribute to regulating populations, cycling nutrients through guano, maintaining predator-prey dynamics, and adding much needed diversity. A wide variety of seabirds can be commonly observed on our Whale Watching tours. From soaring predators to agile divers, some of the birds you might encounter include: bald eagles, common murres, black oystercatchers, rhinoceros auklets, pigeon guillemots, cormorants, and more!

A group of three sea otters floating on their backs in calm ocean water.

And more!

Every eco-tour is different, that’s why we keep our eyes out for an array of other marine animals. Pacific white-sided dolphins can been seen showing off their flips and tricks. Both harbour porpoises and Dall’s porpoises might tag along, effortlessly riding the waves. Even sea otters can be seen near the shorelines and kelp beds. We might also spot different species such as various jellyfish, sea stars, octopuses, anemones, and more. Every trip is a chance to dive into the vibrant world of the Pacific coast.

Are you a resident of BC?

Whale Watching discounts for local residents are available in both peak season and shoulder seasons. More information here.

book your tour

Can’t decide on a whale watching tour or fishing charter?

Our Whale Watching and Fishing Bundle provides an adventure for every member of your group. Check out our FAQs for more information.

book your tour

What Our Adventurers Are Saying

"🙏 to the Seabreeze Adventures team for an amazing trip yesterday. Our original trip was cancelled due to bad weather but able to rebook quickly and was worth it! Saw Orcas within 10 minutes setting off and were then treated to two different pairs of humpbacks. One pair resting but the other pair were keen to get closer to us! Due to the communication, knowledge and sensitivity of captain and marine biologist guide we witnessed these beautiful creatures as they chose to come so close. It was amazing to understand how to identify the individuals, hear their life stories and larger context. Communication was perfect as ice breakers ensured lots of discussion and replies appropriate from details of scientific data analysis, local names of individuals to colouring book. Our group ranged from age 4-80, and from all over the world. Thank you again for making it a once in a lifetime experience"
Elly S
"Brilliant experience. Our guide Bronwyn was enthusiastic and knowledgeable and we saw a ton of wildlife- from bald eagles to seals, humpbacks and orcas. Thrilling."
Lisa A
"Had an amazing watching experience and got to see both orcas and humpbacks, which we were told by our talented guide Grace is pretty rare. Very knowledgeable captain and tour guide, boat wasn't too crowded, would highly recommend!"
Daniel W
"Just amazing. I went whale watching with Seabreeze with my daughter 4 times when she was a teenager. Now after 19 years I came back, this time with my grand daughter on her first whale watching tour, again with Seabreeze. On every tour we saw whales and lots of different wildlife. Yesterday we saw many humpback whales, sea lions, harbour seals and many different birds. I always feel safe with Seabreeze. The atmosphere is very relaxing. The staff is very friendly and very personal. Great guides and very safe and smooth boat operators. I will be coming back many more times. Thank you Jade and Richard for making yesterday's tour a great success and a super experience for us."
Michael P
"We had a fantastic time on the tour. We saw many whales. The Captain and the guide were great. The guide was very knowledgeable on the whales. I would recommend anybody to take the tour its well worth it. The Captain drove the boat smoothly, he slowed down when crossing over big waves. The Family from Ontario"
Donna P
"Amazing time spent on the water from Steveston harbor. Trip well organised and we saw humpback whales, seals, sea lions and so much fantastic scenery! Our captain and host were very knowledgeable and gave great insights."
Rachel
"I had a fantastic time whale watching with Seabreeze! The crew was knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience both educational and enjoyable!"
Cassie R
“Phenomenal, this was the best birthday I’ve ever had and a life-long dream made real. Raphael and Shauna really went above and beyond to educate and get us the experience of a lifetime. The ride was a blast and we managed to see a Humpback and a whole pod of Orcas. I hope I can make it back to B.C. in the future to tour again.”
Jay
“We originally booked with another company, but they had cancelled on us so we went down to Steveston and I’m so glad we did. With such knowledgeable staff who are so connected with the area and wildlife that inhabits the coast, we had an amazing time on our Seabreeze tour. 10/10 would recommend taking the trip out of the city to have a fully immersed experience from beginning to end.”
Pete P
“We saw orcas super up close, as well as harbour seals and tons of Steller sea lions. I did the semi-enclosed tour and can vouch for it. The boat was not crowded even though we went on a Saturday. Everyone could stand outside to get a direct view, but also duck inside when it was too cold.”
Jean L
“We had a great time! My son and I wanted to do something fun for a summer day out and this was perfect. We saw Orcas, humpback whale and seals and sea lions! Raphael and Shauna were great with all the information and a safe zodiac ride!”
Amie F
“Our boat had 20 people plus the captain and naturalist. We saw about half a dozen other whale watching tour boats out on the water and they were beyond crowded! I’m so glad I chose this company! We had lots of room, and freedom to move around the boat. Thank you so much for this unforgettable experience!”
Courtney L
“Our adventure was off-the-charts incredible! Our guide was an absolute treasure trove of knowledge and shared all sorts of fun facts about the species we spotted. Even though we went for the wild ride with the Zodiac boat, I thought I might get a little queasy, but it was an absolute delight! We're already planning our next voyage!”
Trixie Z
“My husband and I booked a whale watching experience for our honeymoon. It was an awesome experience! Richard (Captain) and Camryn (Naturalist) were enthusiastic and super knowledgeable allowing us to have the best experience possible. Cherry on the cake was meeting two humpback whales. 10/10!”
Ria
“Captain Scott and Naturalist Selena took us for an amazing trip today! We saw a humpback whale mum and baby nursing, seals lounging around, sea lions on a marker and most amazingly at least two pods of Orcas hunting and feeding! It was an excellent trip, Selena and Scott were so friendly and clearly knew their stuff about the marine life and the local area.”
Sarah M
“10/10 excellent captain, excellent crew, excellent vessel! You will not be disappointed with this company. Amazing experience. I've been on a few whale watching boats in the past but these guys go above and beyond to create the perfect experience. Will be booking again!”
Nathan G
“Had a great afternoon out on the boat Crazy Legs with Captain and Noah. We got a chance to watch, for well over an hour, a killer whale pod of 6. Wonderful day to be a tourist in our own city. Highly recommend. Not only that, the area of Steveston is wonderful. Worth the drive down to cruise with the Seabreeze Adventures Team!”
Jodi H