Why Nanaimo?
The waters surrounding Nanaimo are home to dozens of pods of Transient orca, humpback whales, sea lions, harbour seals, porpoises, eagles, and more.
Most of the whales sighted near Nanaimo are transient orca and humpback whales, whose populations are both growing! Departing from Nanaimo helps us minimize vessel traffic surrounding the endangered Southern Resident Orca which are typically spotted in the busier waters further south. In fact, we are the first whale-watching company in our region to watch transient orca exclusively, while completely avoiding the endangered Southern Resident orca population. And transients are the most exciting whales to watch! They're the only killer whales in BC that prey on marine mammals and their collaborative hunting strategies are incredible to witness!
Since 2017, whale watchers in our region (North of Victoria, South of Campbell River) have sighted more killer whales near Nanaimo and Gabriola island than anywhere else in the Salish Sea, with a success rate of over 90%!
Finally, as the “Hub of Vancouver Island”, Nanaimo welcomes travellers from all over the world every year. There are many activities to do in our area including kayaking, camping, swimming, fishing, and hiking. It's all at our doorstep! Feel free to ask us about our recommendations.
A pod of transient orca travelling near Dodd’s Narrows - a gorgeous waterway just minutes from our harbour.
A humpback whale breaches clear out of the water!
Things to do around Nanaimo
Are you wanting to go on another adventure after your whale-watching tour? Well, you’re in luck! Nanaimo is known for its natural beauty that can be found quite close to its city center. Besides enjoying the waves, many of our crew enjoy hiking. Below are some of our crew’s favourite hikes with instructions on how to get there and what to expect along the way.
Please note: You may need a car to access some of these trails.
Ammonite Falls
A gorgeous hike to a waterfall just outside the city of Nanaimo
Cable Bay Trail/Joan Point Park
Just south of Nanaimo in Cedar, the Cable Bay trail takes you along the edge of Dodd’s Narrows. Orca and Humpbacks are known to cross through this waterway - you may get lucky and see whales while on your hike!
Extension Ridge and the Abyss
A hike in the heart of Nanaimo that brings you to the Abyss. Watch your step, it’s a long way down!
Neck Point Park
An easy trail along the shores of the Strait of Georgia. If you’re lucky, and you bring binoculars, you might get to see some whales from the shore! Orca and Humpbacks can be spotted along this coastline - be vigilant and you may spot some!
Pipers Lagoon Park
Just south of Neck Point, another beautiful trail along the water with a large beach. Steeper terrain along some small cliffs provides beautiful views of the Salish Sea. Orca and Humpbacks can be spotted along this coastline!
