CartWhale Watching Tours in Tofino
See Orcas, Humpbacks & Gray Whales Up Close
Tofino whale tours
- Multiple Daily Departures
- Duration: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Tour Dates March - November
- Great for kids and adults of all ages
Why Tofino Is One of the Best Whale Watching Spots in the World
Tofino’s surrounding waters in Clayoquot Sound offer one of the richest feeding grounds for whales on the Pacific coast. Every spring and summer, these coastal waters come alive with marine life—including thousands of migrating whales, some who stop here to feed and refuel.
Fun fact: whales can gain over 30% of their body weight while feeding in this area!
What You’ll See on Our Tofino Whale Watching Tours
Our experienced captains and crew will guide you to prime whale watching routes and feeding grounds where you’re likely to witness:
Pacific Gray Whales (March to November)
Approximately 18,000 gray whales migrate from Mexico’s Baja Peninsula to northern waters, defined as the western coast of Washington, all along British Columbia’s coast through to northern Alaska. All along this coast, they stop to feed, and these gentle giants are often spotted in bays or just offshore feeding —an awe-inspiring sight for first-time visitors and locals alike.
Humpback Whales (Spring–Fall)
Migrating from Hawaii and Mexico, humpbacks are famous for their dramatic breaches. Watching a 40-ton whale launch out of the water is something you’ll never forget.
Biggs, also known as Transient Orcas – Killer Whales (Year-Round)
Unlike resident orcas, transient orcas are powerful mammal hunters that roam the coastline in search of marine mammals as prey. Spotting orcas in the wild is always a thrilling experience.
Other Wildlife You May Encounter: Sea Otters, Harbour Seals, Steller Sea Lions & Californian Sea Lions. Along with Harbour Porpoises, Tufted Puffins & Bald Eagles. Occasional sightings of dolphins and minke whales
Accessible Tour Options
This tour can be an Accessible Tour, please note this requirement when booking the tour.
Tour Details At A Glance
- Departure Times: Multiple Daily Departures
- Duration Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Season: March - November
- Family Friendly: Great for kids and adults of all ages
Purpose Built Vessels
Comfortable, covered boats with outdoor viewing decks, inside seating for all, outside seating and viewing decks, restroom aboard, Transport Canada Safety Certified
Our Crew
Mature, Friendly, Lots of Local and Wildlife Knowledge, Transport Canada Safety Certified. Learn more about our crew here.
More Tofino Tours
Whale Watching Tours
Bear Watching Tours
Hot Springs Cove
Chartered Tours Tofino
Tofino Whale Watching - Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see whales in Tofino?
Most tours run March through the end of October , with gray whales can be seen migratingthroughout the season, with them migrating in spring and humpbacks early spring, summer and early fall and orcas throughout the year
Do we always see whales?
While nature is unpredictable, our experienced guides know the hotspots. We maintain one of the highest sighting success rates in Tofino. West Coast Aquatic Safaris guarantees whale sightings – link to our policy.
Is the boat tour safe for kids or seniors?
Yes! Our boats are stable, covered, and comfortable for all ages. Let us know if you need accommodations.
Is there a better time of day to watch whales?
All times of day are great to see whales! Gray Whales feed for about 16 hours a day with them taking breaks/naps throughout the day.
Do we allow strollers on board?
For safety reasons, we cannot allow strollers on our vessels, but you are welcome to leave them in our offices during your trip. For infants we recommend baby sling and carriers.
Do tours run in all types of weather?
Tours operate rain or shine! Safety is our priority and, in extreme weather conditions or high winds, adventures may be cancelled at the discretion of our qualified crew. We will be in touch should this be the case.
I’m pregnant. Can I participate?
Yes, pregnant people can safely join any sailing tour, as we operate larger vessels (catamaran or cruiser), unless counter-indicated by their doctor.
Our service dogs allowed on board?
Yes. We are happy to welcome service dogs onboard our vessels. Dogs must have a medical note from a physician or doctor or qualified medical practitioner, as well as wear appropriate identification (harness or vest). This policy does not include therapy or emotional support dogs.
Will we really see whales?
Yes! In fact, we have a whale sighting guarantee on all of our whale watching tours! Approximately 18,000 grey whales migrate through our waters annually along with humpback whales and transient orcas so our whale sighting success rate is ~95%!
Why Choose West Coast Aquatic Safaris?
- Almost 20 years of experience Over a decade of experience offering eco-conscious whale watching tours
- Passionate local guides with deep knowledge of marine life
- High customer satisfaction and return guests
- Best vessel for eco-tour as they were purpose built
- Rated one of the best whale tours in Tofino
