Bear Watching Tours
Traverse along the inlet waters of Clayoquot Sound—minutes from the dock— and track bears as they scavenge for rock crab in their natural habitat. Riding in open-concept boats gives you the best possible opportunity for sighting bears, and our knowledgeable guides are the resource for all your questions. This tour stays in the inlet, so waters will be flat and calm. Great for all ages! Keep your eyes open—you’ll spot so much more than bears alone.
Book in Advance! Available April – October
95% of our tours result in a bear spotting. Considering the wild and unpredictable nature of Vancouver Island’s West Coast, we are really proud of this.
If luck, weather, and the almighty universe conspire against us—and you don’t see the wildlife you came for—we will give you The Tofino Promise, a raincheck that guarantees you can come back for free to see the wildlife you deserve, whether on the same day or a year later.
If there’s an open spot on the boat, it’s yours.
The White Raven
Zodiac, Uncovered Boat, up to 12 passengers.
We invest in your experience which means we have brand new vessels. Our spacious 12 seat boats ensure you are not fighting the crowds to get a glimpse of the bears. We guarantee a stress-free and intimate experience making your trip unforgettable.
The bears don’t mind it when it is a little wet outside and neither do our boats. We have both uncovered and covered options.
Please note, the Zodiac boat is not suitable for children under 145cm or pregnant women.
The Black Fish
Covered Boat, up to 12 passengers
The bears don’t mind it when it is a little wet outside and neither do our boats. If you prefer, you can enjoy the trip in our covered boat.
The Ultimate Adventure is the best value for a private group of up to 12 passengers. You get your own little boat, drop some crab traps on the way out, and depart on the quest for an intimate experience with the local bear population. This trip will not only get you up-close and personal with the bears, but also is one of the best ways to see the Clayoquot Sound. Miraculous coast lines, rugged points and exciting weather make this a trip that you will not forget. Once you have experienced the inlets, retrieve your crab traps on the way back to the dock and if fishing is good enjoy fresh crab for dinner.
Winter pricing 2023: $800 (+ taxes + fees) for 4 adults. Additional passengers will be $50 per person. Winter pricing applies from September 2023 to March 2024.
Capacity: 12 Adults max.
Crabbing + Prawning: Retrieve your crab or prawns traps on the way back to the dock and if fishing is good, enjoy fresh crab for dinner. Please help us sustain future fish stocks by retaining only what you need.
***Crabbing and prawning subject to weather and season.
Tour Facts
Rates
- 1% Tribal Park Allies supports the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation in the restoration and guardianship of their lands.
- 1% eco fees supports the protection and conservation of wild salmon populations in Clayoquot Sound.
- 5% GST
Bear Watching FAQ
- Warm clothes (layers are best) – we will provide all safety and outerwear jackets depending on weather
- Snacks + Water
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Bears
- Eagles
- Wolves (although they are much more elusive than the bears)
- And more
If you want to get intimate with the natural surroundings of Tofino you will not be disappointed.
- 20-minute boat ride up Tofino inlet
- 2-hours of bear and wildlife viewing up Tofino Inlet
- 20-30 minute boat ride back to Tofino Resort and Marina
Cancellation Policy
- Private Trips (e.g., Ultimate Adventure, Fishing Charters, Floating Sauna Experience):
Full refund or credit if cancelled with at least 1 week’s notice.
No refunds if cancelled within 1 week of the trip. - Public Trips (e.g., Hot Springs, Whale Watching, Wildlife Tours, Bear Watching, Kayak):
Full refund or credit if cancelled with at least 48 hours’ notice.
No refunds if cancelled within 48 hours of the trip. - Operator Cancellations:
Full refund or credit if we cancel due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
We’ll assist in finding alternative options if needed. - No-Shows:
Charged the full price.
To cancel or inquire about a cancellation, please call us or email marina@tofinoresortandmarina.com.
winter wildlife tours
From October 15th to March 31st, we invite you to our winter wildlife tours: Traverse along the inlet waters —minutes from the dock— and explore the sights and sounds of Clayoquot Sound. Riding in covered boats gives you the best possible opportunity for sighting wildlife while staying warm and dry on rainy winter days. You may come across a variety of wildlife including sea lions, seals, otters, a variety of bird life and our knowledgeable guides are the resource for all your questions. This tour stays in the inlet, so waters will be flat and calm. Great for all ages!
WANT TO MAKE THIS THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME?
customized adventure
Book your own private tour with our Ultimate Adventure. Drop some crab traps on your way out, enjoy nature at your own speed, pack a picnic to enjoy along the way and really make the most of your time on the water.
