Tours and Tickets
Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria
5

Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria

By Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
Recommended by 95% of travellers
95% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
About
from
C$203.99
per adult
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 7-99, max of 12 per group
Duration: 3h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More


  • Whale and marine life watching tour on a 12-passenger open-aired zodiac boat
  • Expert Guide/Skipper
  • All-weather exposure flotation suits
  • Lifetime Whale Sightings Guarantee - new free tour from Vancouver or Victoria until you see whales!
  • $5 per person Salish Sea Conservation Fee (1% For The Planet Initiative) is included in price
  • Entry/Admission - Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
What's not included
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Gratuities
  • Excludes taxes and fees for Lifetime Whale Sighting Guarantee


Departure details
  • 812 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada Lower causeway
Return details
  • Returns to original departure point

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5882P6

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not suitable for participants with back or neck problems, pregnant women, participants with recent surgeries
  • There is a minimum passenger height restriction of 4ft (120cm)
  • Each passenger is required to sign a Release of Liability at check in. Participants must be 19 years of age, or require a parent or guardian to sign on their behalf
  • Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date/time/vessel or full refund
  • Not recommended for travellers with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travellers
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travellers

  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

How much is Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria?
Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria price starts from C$208.48. Discover and book Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria on Tripadvisor
What is the Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria cancellation policy?
Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria on Tripadvisor
Which company provides Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria?
Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria is hosted by Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria on Tripadvisor
How much time do I need for Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria?
On average, this experience will take approximately 3h. Discover and book Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria on Tripadvisor

If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 5882P6

Reserve your spot

Similar experiences

Itinerary
  • You'll start at
    812 Wharf St
    812 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada
    Lower causeway
    See address & details
  • 1
    Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
    Stop: 1 minute - Admission included
    Guests will meet here to disembark on their adventure!
    Read more
  • You'll return to the starting point
+
About the operator
Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures
4,516
Canada
Joined in May 2007

#2 of 111 Outdoor Activities in Victoria
  • Passport28757438080
    Passport28757438080
    0
    0
    You are in safe hands with Mark.
    The whole process from booking to suiting up was easy and very straight forward. Mark, our Captain, was very knowledgeable, perfect mixture of friendly and professional and we felt safe all the time we were on the boat. Mark knew exactly where he was going, and was checking periodically with everyone if they were okay. We were lucky enough to see whales, dall’s porpoises, sea lions and seals. This is my third booking with Price Of Whales, but a first one in Victoria and in a small boat. I was lucky enough to see big animals every time I booked a trip but I am always coming back for the customer service.
  • AliyehJafari
    AliyehJafari
    0
    0
    Awesome experience
    This was the first whale-watching tour we had ever been on, so we were very excited. Jesse, Richard, Jamie, Gord, and Michael made up the incredible crew. WThey sent us some amazing photos from the trip, for which we were incredibly appreciative. Highly recommend this awesome excursion.
  • 547sohanm
    547sohanm
    0
    0
    Whale watching, Nov 23.
    Super fun experience! Whales were out today and Mark was sot on to get a clear shot 5mtrs away, more than a few times!
  • taito2023
    taito2023
    0
    0
    A Wonderful Experience
    We had the best time on our trip! There were beautiful views from start to finish, tea provided to help warm up after time on deck, and incredible views of whales and other wildlife. I would like to specifically thank Algebra for providing fascinating information about the wildlife we saw throughout the day. Algebra's thoughtful and passionate explanations made the trip exciting, informative, and highly memorable. Thank you for a wonderful day aboard!
  • 132stevew
    132stevew
    0
    0
    Great whale-watching
    Great experience. Crew was fantastic. Shoutout for Algebra (marine biologist guide) for making even the safety lecture entertaining. Saw a dozen humpback whales, sea lions, bald eagles… and the boat is large enough that motion sickness wasn’t an issue for anyone. Highly recommended!
  • 763kelseya
    763kelseya
    0
    0
    Incredible whale watching experience.
    Had an incredible Time!! Gord and Richard brought us to and from the whale safely!! Algebra shared incredible stories!!! Maddie took lovely photos. And mark is a legend for spotting the first big mama!
  • Mark T
    Mark T
    0
    0
    Victory in Victoria
    Great day for whale watching! My wife and I have been on several whale tours and this particular day was spectacular. Not only were the whales cooperative but all the staff members were enthusiastic, friendly and knowledgeable. Kudos to Captain Richard, First mate Gord and naturalists Lyala, Rajan, and Michelo! Thanks and cheers!
  • T8940KLcaitlinc
    T8940KLcaitlinc
    0
    0
    Amazing experience!!
    This tour was such a treat! Seeing humpback whales up close was so amazing! Shout out to the naturalists on board who were super knowledgeable. Algebra in particular was very entertaining and kindly got me mint tea when my stomach was a bit unhappy. 10/10 would recommend, and I hope to go again!!
  • jasleens2017
    jasleens2017
    0
    0
    Fun, educational and worth the trip!
    This experience was fantastic! The day was beautiful and the staff were so kind and very knowledgeable. We had a lot of whale sightings and got to sea some beautiful islands and other wildlife. I would like to give extra praise for their staff member, Algebra. She went above and beyond with her safety debrief. She was approachable, funny and spoke very clearly for all to hear. It was an amazing experience and definitely worthwhile!
  • miapA9201OZ
    miapA9201OZ
    0
    0
    Wonderful afternoon with a wonderful crew
    What a wonderful way to spend a Sunday afternoon! We saw 12 orca whales and 7+ humpbacks throughout our trip, and covered a lot of area to see the amazing creatures in action. A highlight of the adventure was one of our wonderful naturalists, Algebra, who was incredibly informative plus hilarious! Seriously - who knew listening to rules could be so much fun! Would recommend this crew and experience for anyone looking to get a glimpse, and better understanding, of these majestic beasts :)
  • whereizben
    whereizben
    0
    0
    Really wonderful time for my wife’s birthday-very fun, tons of whale sightings, very informative and quite safe. Thanks!
    We almost canceled at the last minute due to forecast of rain and even some wind - boy are we glad that we didn’t cancel! While it did rain a bit, and was windy and choppy at the end of our trip, the crew spent 4+ hours taking us around and we got to see so many whales. We saw numerous humpbacks, including at least 8 breaches, and also saw orcas. We even saw one group of orcas with a humpback in close proximity. The naturalists, Jamie and Michael, were super informative AND took amazing photos for us - they answered any and all questions in a helpful manner, and provided lots of great commentary. The captain and 1st mate, Richard and Gord, kept us safe and not-seasick (even when it got pretty windy and choppy) and also did a wonderful job of staying a respectful and safe distance from the whales. We also stopped by Race Rocks for a few photos there as well. Thank you for a great birthday present for my wife!!
  • JimRexB
    JimRexB
    0
    0
    Great staff and amazing whales!
    Not only did we see Orcas, Humpbacks, Seals and Sea lions - but our guide was amazing! Algebra was funny and informative and super friendly. From refilling coffee to safety talks to answering any and all questions - she really made the trip something special. Thank you for a great day out!
  • AnnieS13290
    AnnieS13290
    0
    0
    A fun and very well-informed trip
    We had a brilliant time on our tour with Prince of Whales. The crew were exceptional, Richard and Gord had a sixth sense for where Whales would be and were really positive, friendly and helpful while driving the boat with great skill. The marine biologists made it so much more than just a tour, they were super knowledgeable, friendly, fun and willing to answer lots of questions 1:1. Thank you Algebra, Jesse and Lyala!
  • j0hnaustink
    j0hnaustink
    0
    0
    Amazing!
    The kind of thing you need to do at least once in your life. Beautiful scenery that would be worth it even if we didn’t see whales but we saw a spectacular pod of orcas, some porpoises, sea lions, a cute little baby seal, and various other creatures. Seeing the whales up close is an unforgettable experience, but it was made all the more memorable by our fantastic naturalists. Algebra delivered an unforgettable experience, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm for our natural world in a uniquely hilarious and at times profound way. The other naturalists were also quick to fill in the gaps and support the energy of the tour. Even the captain and first mate were coming around to make sure we were comfortable, and sharing their perspective as well. What a terrific time!
  • VishveshK2
    VishveshK2
    0
    0
    Whale watching with wildlife
    Amazing sight of wales and wildlife today again, this time we went on to islands in the USA territory. Algebra you are amazing as always.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions

5.0
470 reviews
Excellent
420
Very good
27
Average
10
Poor
6
Terrible
7

Allen R
Bakersfield, CA7 contributions
Mar. 2023
This critique is of the 3 hour Prince of Whales Zodiac tour on March 30, 2023. I admit that we should have known better than to go out with them when we could not find any other whale watching tour operators open on the date we were in Victioia. (March 30, 2023). That should have given us a clue to not go. We know that whale tour operators in an area usually share information about where whales might be sighted. That, of course, increases chances of seeing whales. Since no other operators were operating there could be no sharing of information and less chance of seeing whales. I believe other tour operators may have opened on April 1st so we were a couple of days early. Another thing we should have taken as a warning was that Prince of Whales said they would not go out unless they had 4 passengers. There were six people on our tour. Prince of Whales provides insulated waterproof suits so you don't freeze. Still, on our tour it was freezing cold and rough seas and the almost constant bang, bang, bang as the Zodiac raised up and then slammed down with a teeth rattling crash against the water of the next wave. By the time we were half way into the tour we were freezing cold and could have cared less if we saw a whale or not. Actually, by that time we doubted we would see any whale or dolphin. The last hour was spent racing back to the harbour to get off the rough water ASAP. I would sum up our experience like this: We were tourists who should have known better, but didn't. You have to trust the operator to provide a good product. They didn't. Their "guarantee" is that you can come back for a free trip if you don't see any whales. Since most tourists do not live anywhere near Victoria that isn't likely to happen. I am well aware that whale watching is pretty much a "pay your money, take your chances" situation. That's okay. But bitter cold, rough seas, no other operators running tours to increase chances of seeing whales left us with a feeling that they, and maybe we, should have known better, but we didn't. We were taken advantage of.
Written May 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Leanne C
Vancouver, Canada8 contributions
Mar. 2021 • Solo
Born and raised in BC and have never gone whale watching on purpose and after this experience, I’m not sure why I waited so long. Had a blast today! The trip was well organized: equipment and wet suit provided, they even have toques and gloves for you. I recommend that if you have long hair to tie it up because it’s a wild ride. Be prepared to be ride the roller coaster of the sea but it was safe and fun due to our expert skipper Mark who navigated the Zodiac confidently! but I do think that it’s not suited for people who have even the slightest motion sickness or anyone with previous injuries. We learned so much from Mark about Marine wildlife especially whales. We were fortunate to see a family of 5 Orca whales and stayed a while to watch them swim and play. It was majestic! Mark could even identify them all, it was impressive. Then we ventured off to see the beautiful Bedford islands and saw many sea lions and otters. It was a grand day! Highly recommend this experience to anyone who loves adventure! Thanks Prince of Whales and Mark for the wonderful trip!
Written March 20, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello leannechow_415, Thank you so much for your glowing review and reccommendation!! We are thrilled that you came out with us and the experince exceeded your expectations! I will be sure to pass along your kind words to Mark and we really hope to have you onboard again :)
Written March 26, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Bart L
Aurora, Canada2 contributions
Aug. 2022
This was the perfect experience for our family. We saw a pod of 5 Orcas and 3 humpbacks and other sea animals. The captain and check in staff were friendly, knowledgeable and made the whole experience run very smoothly.

The zodiac option is worthy of the extra cost… see more, move faster and the smaller group allowed everyone to interact. This company was recommended by a local person we know and did not disappoint. Highly recommend!!!
Written August 9, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PrinceOfWhalesTeam
Bart L, Thank you so much for your review! We're so happy you enjoyed our zodiac tour and the help from our staff along the way. You definitely had some incredible sightings and we are so happy we could provide those experiences for you. We hope to see you again in the future sometime!
Written August 10, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Sharron R
Edmonton, Canada126 contributions
Nov. 2021
What an amazing experience! The seas were about 8 - 10 feet the day we went as a big storm was expected. The ride out and back was a bit rough for myself, but my sons thoroughly enjoyed the waves. The time we were out in the strait watching the whales was phenomenal though. Our captain, Mark, found us a large pod of Orcas and we were able to see them up close and I got several great photos (remember the waterproof cover for your camera if you go on the Zodiac). The Orca leader was about a 25 foot male, and Mark was able to tell us a lot about Orcas and their habits. He was able to find this pod several times during our trip, and each time stopped the boat so we could take photos and just enjoy watching them. We also saw a Humpback Whale and then it was off to Race Rocks Research Station to see the Sea Lions. A totally enjoyable experience with a great captain. I would highly recommend this adventure to all who want to see whales in the wild.
Written November 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PrinceOfWhalesTeam
Sharron R, Wow, what an amazing day on the water!! We're so happy to hear that you enjoyed your time exploring the Salish Sea with skipper Mark :) We sincerely appreciate your review and kind words and we're overjoyed to know that you had such a complete list of wildlife on your adventure. We hope that you'll return to join us again in 2022! Best fishes.
Written November 29, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Emma K
1 contribution
Really disappointed with our trip for the price we paid. On our honeymoon and really wanted to see some whales while here. We know there’s no guarantee of seeing anything but all we saw was the back of one humpback whale 4 times from about 200m away. Because of this sighting, the lifetime guarantee is void so no second trip. The boat ride was fun and we saw a bald eagle, but that wasn’t why we’d paid the high price for the trip. The tour guide/boat driver made a lot of comments early on that made us feel like seeing an orca was inevitable which really got our hopes up, only to mention as we pulled in on our return that no one had seen orcas all day and they may be in the area tomorrow. Just feel very deflated
Written June 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Maria K
2 contributions
Sep. 2021 • Family
It was so much fun, and a real adventure. Me and the kids (10 and 11), we really enjoyed our time onboard. We saw *a lot* of whales and orcas: more than we ever expected to see. They were very close. If was a real and breathtaking encounter with sea animals. We were happy to watch them, because they are absolutely amazing as they swim and jump.

Our captain, Mark, was like a hero from a movie. We will remember him forever. He did everything in his power so that we could see orcas, whales, and sea lions. Great speed (who-hoo!) and smart tactics. Brought us back safe and sound.

Definitely recommend this tour to everyone who wants to experience an adventure in the ocean, and to see amazing creatures who live on our planet.
Written September 28, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PrinceOfWhalesTeam
drmariakutuzov, Wow -- where to start! Firstly, thank you so much for taking the time to leave us such a fun, informative and kind review. We really appreciate the feedback and we're so happy that you and your kids were able to join us and to be able to see such an amazing variety of wildlife on your tour. As for Mark, he's definitely a hero in our books!
Written September 28, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jennifer A
2 contributions
Oh my gosh! We just got back from a zodiac tour, it was spectacular. We saw a pod of 6 Orcas that included a mama with calf and two very large males, they were absolutely stunning! We were able to observe them for quite some time while they were swimming against a very strong current. Our guide Trey was very knowledgeable and maneuvered our boat as close as possible without encroaching on the pod at all, he was very protective of the Orcas which was so appreciated. It was a truly magical day! Bonus, we saw a humpback on our way back to the marina! ✨🐋
Written August 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
PrinceOfWhalesTeam
Wow! It sounds like you had a truly spectacular zodiac tour! Witnessing a pod of 6 Orcas, including a mama with calf and two large males, must have been an awe-inspiring sight. We're thrilled that you had the opportunity to observe them for an extended period, even in the face of a strong current. Our guide Trey's expertise and commitment to protecting the Orcas, while still allowing a close and respectful encounter, is something we take great pride in. We're delighted that your day was magical, and the bonus sighting of a humpback on your way back to the marina made it even more unforgettable. Thank you for sharing this wonderful experience, and we hope to welcome you back for more extraordinary adventures in the future!
Written August 3, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

iain h
1 contribution
Jun. 2021
Operation ran like clock work. Very well executed harbour departure and arrival. The supply of environmental wear for passengers was excellent. The day we rode was overcast and cool but the environmental clothing provided kept us warm and dry. Very knowledgeable boat operator with very good coordination with other organizations to ensure that whale sighting and observations were equitable for all. Very well worth It!
Written June 7, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello 775iainh, Thank you for your awesome review!! We are so pleased that you enjoyed your time on the water and got to see some whales :) Thank you for joining us and we hope to have you onboard again!
Written June 14, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

AC
1 contribution
Jul. 2021 • Family
Beautiful scenery. Saw sea lions lounging on a big rock. Saw a baby humpback whale and our guide went above and beyond to get us out to a killer whale sighting. Friendly staff, well run👍🏻
Written July 2, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
POWwowNIK
F123KBa, Baby 'humpback' doo doo, doo doo doo doo...it might not have the same ring to it but WOW(!) what a memorable day on the water! We're so glad you encountered such a vast diversity of wildlife & we thank you dearly for your wonderful review. We hope to have you out with us again soon! :)
Written July 9, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Colleen V
5 contributions
Aug. 2020 • Family
This trip was a gift for my birthday from my daughter and what a gift. It was accelerating, exciting and more of all fun. The speed of the boat was extremely fun. Our Captain Jasper was the absolute best. He was professional, knowledgeable and most importantly friendly. He was second to none. We saw an active Humpback whale doing a few tricks for us so that put the icing on the cake. Seeing the lighthouse and the sea lions on the island was fantastic. This trip was a 10 out 10 for us. Thanks Jasper and the staff at Prince of Whales. You were all awesome👍👍👍
Written August 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello colleenv716, Thank you so much for your kind comments! We are so glad you enjoyed your adventure with Jasper and the Prince of Whales team. We hope to see you out on the water again soon!
Written August 15, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Zodiac Whale Watching Adventure from Victoria provided by Prince of Whales - Whale Watching Adventures