Vancouver Island: Telegraph Cove Zodiac Whale Watching Tour

Summary

Whale watching in Johnstone Strait with local guides and wild encounters

You’ll board a Zodiac boat in Telegraph Cove with an expert local guide for three hours of whale watching in Johnstone Strait. Feel the wind, spot eagles and sea lions, and maybe hear an orca’s breath before you see it. This small-group tour includes live commentary and a whale sighting guarantee—moments you’ll probably remember longer than you think.

What’s the experience like?

“If you see the spray first, don’t shout — just point,” our skipper, Rob, grinned as he handed out the big orange suits. I could smell the seaweed before we even left the dock at Telegraph Cove, that salty-tangy scent that sticks to your jacket. The boat was smaller than I pictured (twelve of us squeezed in), but it felt right for this stretch of Vancouver Island — more like joining a friend’s fishing trip than anything official. There was a kid next to me who kept asking if we’d see orcas. Honestly, I was wondering the same thing.

The Zodiac zipped out into Johnstone Strait so fast my teeth rattled. Wind stung my cheeks and every now and then a cold splash hit my face — not exactly glamorous but it made me laugh out loud. Rob started pointing out things I never would’ve noticed: a bald eagle hunched on a snag, sea lions barking from a rock that looked like it belonged in some Viking saga. He told us about the whales’ migration routes and how sometimes you can hear them before you see them, which sounded like magic until it actually happened — this low whoosh somewhere off to our left. Everyone went quiet for a second, even the kid.

I didn’t expect to feel so small out there, surrounded by all that grey water and sky. When an orca finally surfaced (just once, but close enough I could see its white patch flash), my heart did this weird fluttery thing. It wasn’t dramatic — no leaping or splashing — just silent and huge. Rob said something about how lucky we were; I couldn’t really answer because I was still holding my breath. The ride back felt different somehow, like we’d all shared something private with the strait itself.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale watching adventure from Telegraph Cove

• Depart from Telegraph Cove Resort
• Board 12-passenger Zodiac boat
• Enjoy 3-hour guided whale watching
• Spot whales, seals, sea lions
• Look for otters, dolphins, eagles
• Return to Telegraph Cove Resort

Top questions

How long is the Vancouver Island Zodiac whale watching tour?

The tour lasts approximately three hours from departure at Telegraph Cove.

Is there a guarantee to see whales on this tour?

Yes, there is a whale sightings guarantee with complimentary tours until you see whales (fees may apply).

What wildlife might I see besides whales?

You may also spot seals, sea lions, otters, dolphins, and eagles during the tour.

How many people are on each Zodiac boat?

The open-air Zodiac holds up to 12 passengers per trip.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children must be at least 4 feet tall (120cm) and 50 lbs (23kg) to participate.

Are there any health restrictions for this whale watching tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, neck problems, pregnancy or poor cardiovascular health.

What happens if weather conditions are poor?

If canceled due to bad weather, you can reschedule for another date/time/vessel or get a full refund.

Do I need to sign anything before joining?

Yes, all participants must sign a Release of Liability at check-in; minors need guardian consent.

What’s included

Your day includes a fully guided three-hour whale and marine life watching tour aboard a 12-passenger open-air Zodiac from Telegraph Cove with live commentary by an expert skipper plus GST tax and their unique whale sightings guarantee—so if you miss whales today, they’ll invite you back until you do (fees may apply).