Vancouver: Zodiac Whale Watching Tour from Granville Island
ID: GYG1065757-1637314
Category:
Country: Canada
Duration:
05:00 hours
Description
Vancouver’s only downtown zodiac whale watching experience! Spot orcas, humpbacks & more on a thrilling, close-to-the-water ride with expert guides.
Get ready for a thrilling 3–5 hour journey through the spectacular waters of the Salish Sea—one of the richest and most biodiverse marine environments on the planet. Depart from Granville Island aboard a custom-built zodiac with shock-absorbing seats. This is not your average whale watching tour. It’s a high-speed, small-group adventure designed for those who want more than just a glimpse of wildlife—it’s for those ready to feel like part of the ecosystem.
This is not a large, covered vessel with rows of seating—this is a custom-built, open-air zodiac, designed for speed, agility, and immersion. With shock-absorbing seats and an open design, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views and a direct connection to the sea. Every seat is a good seat, and every splash feels like part of the experience.
Because of its size and maneuverability, the zodiac feels closer to the action while still adhering to strict wildlife viewing guidelines. It's the perfect vessel for those who crave adventure without sacrificing comfort.
The zodiac carries fewer passengers than traditional whale watching boats, creating a more personal and less disruptive experience—for both guests and wildlife. The captains are Transport Canada-certified with extensive experience on local waters. Every tour also includes a marine naturalist, who brings the Salish Sea to life through stories, behavior interpretation, and conservation insights.
A portion of the profits supports regional marine research and protection initiatives. When you book, you’re giving back to the very ecosystem you came to see. Follow all guidelines set by the Pacific Whale Watch Association and DFO to ensure you’re protecting marine life while educating guests.
On any given day, you might encounter orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, harbor seals, stellar sea lions, bald eagles, cormorants, and seabirds. Every tour is unique. Wildlife sightings vary depending on conditions and recent reports—but the expert crew works closely with a network of spotters and other captains to give you the best chance of an unforgettable encounter.
Our zodiac vessels are also available to private charter giving your tour even more flexibility and guidance from our expert crew.
Highlights
- Feel the thrill of a high-speed Zodiac ride through the Salish Sea
- Get up close to orcas, humpback whales, and other marine life
- Learn about the ecosystem from a marine naturalist on board
- Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air Zodiac
- Support marine conservation with a portion of your ticket price
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
This tour is not suitable for pregnant guests or those with back or neck injuries due to the motion of the zodiac.
Dress in warm layers—it’s often colder on the water, even in summer. Flotation suits are provided but are not fully waterproof.
We provide a wildlife sightings guarantee, should you not see a whale, join us again for free.
The zodiac is an open-air vessel—prepare for wind, spray, and full exposure to the elements.
Children must meet minimum height and age requirements (confirm at booking).
Please arrive 45 minutes before departure for check-in and safety briefing. Late arrivals may not be accommodated.
Meet at the Wild Whales Vancouver office which is located at 1806 Mast Tower Ln, Vancouver, BC V6H 4B6. This is located on Granville Island, just south of Downtown Vancouver and we can be reached by car, public transport as well as the small local ferry service.
If driving to us, there is paid public parking all over Granville Island and please be sure to arrive early to find parking as the Island gets very busy throughout the summer months.
INCLUDED
- 3–5 hour whale and wildlife watching tour
- Professional captain
- Onboard marine naturalist
- Full-body flotation suits for safety and warmth
- Storage for personal items
- Rain ponchos (if needed)
- Unforgettable views and stories
- Individual shock absorbing seats onboard (one of a kind)
NOT INCLUDED
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities (optional)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.
