Campbell River: Spring wildlife & waterfall boat tour

Summary

Spring on the water: bears, whales & waterfalls near Campbell River

You’ll cruise from Campbell River past islands and inlets alive with spring wildlife—watching for bears on shore, spotting humpback whales returning north, and pausing at waterfalls pouring down green cliffs. With a local guide sharing stories and lunch on board, it’s a day full of small surprises and wild moments you’ll remember long after the trip.

What’s the experience like?

We were already drifting past the green edges of Quadra Island when I realized how much I’d missed that salt-and-cedar smell — it’s sharper in spring, somehow. Our guide, Jamie, pointed out the Cape Mudge Lighthouse just as a sea lion popped up nearby (honestly startled me — they’re bigger than you think). The boat was covered but you could still feel the chill if you leaned out to watch the shoreline slide by. I kept my coffee close; it was that kind of morning.

I didn’t expect to see so many waterfalls — they’re everywhere along these inlets after winter. Some are thin silver lines, others just explode down mossy cliffs. Jamie slowed us near one where the spray caught the sun for a second and everyone went quiet except for this kid who kept asking about orcas. We did spot humpback whales though — first of the season, Jamie said — and there’s something about seeing that tail flick up against all that grey water that sticks with you.

Bears were what I really wanted to see and we got lucky: one big black bear nosing around for mussels right at the edge of the trees. It moved slow but looked up once, like it knew we were watching. Someone tried to whisper but their jacket rustled louder than their voice — made us all grin. Lunch was simple but good (sandwiches taste better when you’re cold and hungry), and I probably drank too much tea just because it felt right with the wind coming off the water.

The whole day felt longer than seven hours in a good way. There’s this moment when you realize you’ve stopped checking your phone or thinking about anything else except what’s right in front of you — waterfalls, bears, sea birds wheeling overhead. I still think about that view back toward Campbell River as we headed home; sky clearing just enough to make everything glow for a minute before we docked.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Coastal Wildlife and Lighthouse Viewing

• If we travel south out of the marina, we go by the Cape Mudge Lighthouse on Quadra Island

Top questions

How long is the Campbell River spring wildlife & waterfall tour?

The tour lasts 7–8 hours in total.

Are meals included during the boat tour?

Yes, snacks and lunch are included on board.

Is there a restroom available during the tour?

Yes, there is a restroom on board the vessel.

What animals might I see on this day trip from Campbell River?

You may see bears, sea lions, sea birds, orca whales, and humpback whales.

Does this tour include pickup from my hotel?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Is this wildlife boat tour suitable for infants?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during the trip.

Are there any health restrictions for joining this tour?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What should I bring for weather during spring in Campbell River?

A warm jacket is recommended as it can be chilly on the water even inside a covered vessel.

What’s included

Your day includes snacks and lunch served onboard along with coffee or tea to keep warm while watching wildlife. There’s also a restroom available on the covered vessel so you can relax and enjoy each stop along British Columbia’s mainland coast before heading back to Campbell River in the evening.