whale watching tours
eco adventures
The coastal waters off Victoria are a fascinating place, and Seacoast Expeditions believes in the value of sharing our knowledge about this environment and its life with our passengers. That's why we've developed programs and approaches that help to make every tour an enjoyable and interesting learning experience.
whale watching tours
Enjoy the exhilaration of racing through the seas in one of our open aired zodiacs. Our zodiacs are large, state of the art and feature enclosed washrooms. Helping to protect the environment, our zodiacs are powered by environmentally friendly Yamaha 4-stroke outboards, which are renowned for their ultra low emissions and quiet operating levels.
our boats
Seacoast Expeditions' custom designed Zodiac vessels offer you a first class
marine adventure that is safe, educational and fun for the whole family.
These vessels were modeled after fast-response Coast Guard rescue vessels.
Zodiac style vessels combine speed with extraordinary stability to cruise at
25-35 knots.
They are equipped with well padded bench seating and cushioned
backrests for additional comfort. With new 4 stroke motors, these boats are
more efficient and quieter - we are always trying to lessen our foot-print
on the environment.
Our boats give an intense hands-on experience of the sea and the marine environment.
For your Safety and Comfort each vessel is annually inspected by the Coast Guard. The full length Mustang Cruiser suits we supply are Government Approved flotation suits.
Ultra-quiet, Ultra-Clean Engines
Minimal disturbance to the marine wildlife is achieved in another important way as well-through the use of ultra-quiet, ultra-clean Yamaha four-stroke engines. We are the only company in Victoria to use these engines. Because they minimize vibration and run much more quietly than standard outboards, our passengers feel more comfortable and can talk and hear more easily. The engines' exclusive "Inertia Charge System" delivers superior power, yet provides up to 30% more range and fuel efficiency than a conventional two-stroke. These engines are so clean-running that they exceed the U.S.A. Federal EPA emission standards for 2006.
What is the ride like?
Exciting and sometimes quite adventurous. It can be wild and wet or smooth and dry or any combination of the two. A typical trip has ocean spray dousing passengers somewhere along the route. Morning trips are usually calmer than afternoon trips.
Where do you go?
Routes vary depending on whale sightings and weather. A typical route takes us along Victoria's scenic waterfront to Oak Bay and the Chain Islets where we pause to watch harbour seals and sea birds. From there we are likely to head east to San Juan Island or north along the Saanich Peninsula. Round trip distance is usually 50 to 80 km. When whale sighting reports are received we change course to locate the whales provided they are within range.
Are you able to hear the killer whales?
Sometimes, yes. Each of our boats is equipped with a hydrophone (an underwater microphone) which we can lower into the water when we are near a pod of whales. If the whales are vocalizing, their sounds will be picked up by the hydrophone and amplified for our passengers to hear.
What is there to see apart from marine mammals and sea birds?
Plenty. Sea planes landing and taking off, commercial fishing vessels, tugs towing barges or log booms, naval ships, freighters, sailboats and yachts of all descriptions, hang gliders and wind surfers on windy days, shoreline reefs, islands, kelp beds, lighthouses, waves, distant fog banks, reflections, mirages, sunsets, mountains, interesting cloud formations, an ever changing sea seascape and more.
How should I dress?
During the warm summer period, light summer clothing and slacks are fine although it is a good idea to bring along a warm sweater (it is surprisingly cool traveling fast over the surface of the ocean). On cool days or on evening trips long pants, sweaters, snug fitting hat and warm footwear are required.
Do you provide passengers with special gear?
Yes. Full length cruiser suits (extra small to double extra large) are supplied for your comfort and safety. These are government approved flotation suits which protect you from ocean spray and the cool ocean air.
What should I bring?
Sunglasses, camera, tight fitting hat and sunscreen.
Where do we board the boat?
At our private dock 70 paces from our office located at:
Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel
146 Kingston Street
Victoria, BC
Is parking available at the Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel?
Yes. Free underground parking is available for Seacoast Expeditions customers at Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel.
