Grizzlies, Orcas & Black Bears - Victoria Island

Vancouver to Campbell River

Sail from Vancouver on a scenic BC Ferries crossing to Vancouver Island. Journey north through Nanaimo, the vibrant Harbour City, and Parksville, gateway to Beach Country and home of the famous International Sandcastle Competition. Your destination is Campbell River, celebrated as the “Salmon Capital of the World” and framed by Strathcona Provincial Park’s wilderness to the west and the Coastal Mountains to the east. From world-famous Discovery Pier, watch majestic cruise ships slip past, their glowing lights illuminating the Inside Passage as they head towards Alaska a truly unforgettable coastal spectacle.

Overnight: Comfort Inn and Suites or similar

Campbell River to Knight Inlet Lodge and the Grizzly Bears

Fly by floatplane from Campbell River to the remote Knight Inlet Lodge, accessible only by air or water. This exhilarating 30-minute journey soars over breathtaking coastal scenery before landing at the mouth of the Glendale River, where the lodge floats serenely on cedar booms. Upon arrival, set out on an unforgettable bear-watching adventure in search of the mighty grizzlies that roam the area, alongside other incredible wildlife an overnight stay at Knight Inlet Lodge promises an extraordinary encounter with nature at its most raw and untamed.

Overnight: Knight Inlet Lodge

Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Knight Inlet Lodge

Today, tailor your adventure with a choice of four exclusive experiences, each designed to suit your individual interests.

• Grizzly Bear Viewing – Return to Glendale Cove, home to one of British Columbia’s largest grizzly populations.

• Rainforest Walk – Explore the pristine Kwalate Valley on a guided trail beside the river.

• Wildlife Tracking – Journey along old forestry roads in search of animal signs, with the chance to make plaster casts of tracks.

• Walk the Clouds – Follow a raised boardwalk to a scenic lookout offering sweeping views of Knight Inlet and Glendale Cove.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Knight Inlet Lodge to Tofino

Early this morning, return to the bear viewing platforms for a final opportunity to capture lasting photographs before boarding your floatplane to Campbell River. Collect your car and journey southwest to Tofino on the wild and rugged west coast. Along the way, pause at Cathedral Grove to marvel at towering 800-year-old Douglas fir and cedar, and at Sproat Lake to view the world’s largest water-bombers. Continue through Sutton Pass and the dramatic Sawtooth Range, arriving in Tofino by mid-afternoon.

Overnight: Water’s Edge Shoreside Suite or similar

Tofino

Today, tailor your adventure with one of two unforgettable coastal experiences:

• Coastal Bear Watch Cruise Travel by 24’ Zodiac along Vancouver Island’s shoreline in search of black bears foraging at low tide. Watch as they roam the beaches, turning rocks in pursuit of their favourite delicacy – the rock crab.

• Whale Watching Cruise Explore the pristine waters of Clayoquot Sound, where dramatic scenery meets abundant marine life. Depending on the season, sightings may include grey and humpback whales, sea lions, seabirds and resident bald eagles.

Tofino to Victoria

Journey south along Vancouver Island’s scenic east coast to Victoria. En route, stop in the charming artist community of Chemainus to admire its striking outdoor murals, and visit Duncan, the “City of Totems.” Time permitting, explore the Quw’utsun’ Heritage Village to gain insight into the lives and traditions of the Northwest Coast people.

Overnight: Fairmont Empress Hotel

Victoria

Known for its picturesque Inner Harbour, historic architecture, and vibrant gardens, the city blends British colonial heritage with a relaxed West Coast vibe.

Today select one of the following sightseeing excursions:

Butchart Gardens Admission Celebrate the splendour of Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada since its centennial in 2004. Wander 55 acres of meticulously curated gardens within the 130-acre estate, featuring vibrant floral displays, tranquil ponds, and scenic walking paths.

Eat Like a Canadian Food Tour Discover the flavours of Victoria on a culinary journey through the city’s Inner Harbour. Taste local ingredients, historic dishes, and meet the chefs and owners behind this dynamic food scene.

Whale Watching Cruise Embark on a 3.5-hour guided cruise in the Salish Sea. Observe killer whales and other marine life up close, with hydrophones bringing the underwater world to life.

High Tea at the Fairmont Empress Indulge in a traditional high tea at the iconic Fairmont Empress. Enjoy a lavish selection of teas, finger sandwiches, pastries, and scones in an elegant, historic setting.

Overnight: Fairmont Empress Hotel

Victoria to Vancouver

Depart Victoria and continue north to Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal for a 90-minute crossing to Tsawwassen aboard BC Ferries, enjoying panoramic views of the Gulf Islands and the Strait of Georgia. From Tsawwassen, drive onward to downtown Vancouver, where your self-drive will end.