Travel advisory: Busy weekend expected View ×

Posted: Thursday, July 30, 2026

Busy weekend expected

BC Day long weekend is the busiest weekend of the year for ferry travel on the coast. Our major routes between the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island are expected to be at or near capacity for vehicles during peak times.

Be prepared for sailing waits if a booking has not been made in advance of travel. Depending on when you arrive, there may be limited or no space available for drive-up vehicles. Check Current Conditions before leaving for the terminal for the latest sailing and capacity information, and check Service Notices for operational updates.

If your plans are flexible, consider taking transit and travel as a foot passenger. Walk-on bookings are available on our major routes at no additional cost and are recommended to help secure your preferred sailing. BC Day long weekend travel tips can be found here.

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Humpback Whale jumping out of the ocean

ACTIVITY

Big Animal Encounters - 4 Hour Whale and Wildlife Tour

Campbell River, BC

DETAILS

Join a thrilling Zodiac adventure along the Salish Sea and into the Desolation Sound with Big Animal Encounter as you search for some of the biggest and most exciting marina mammals in the region. During your tour, keep an eye out for wildlife sightings such as humpback whales, Bigg’s (transient) orcas, pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, eagles, seals, porpoises, black bears, grizzly bears and more! 

Highlights:

  • 4-hour whale and wildlife tour with a knowledgeable and experienced guide 
  • Hydrophone to listen to whales underwater 
  • Snacks and beverages are provided 
  • See historical sites in the area on your tour 
  • Fun ride in an open-air Zodiac boat 

Availability: 4 Hour Whale and Wildlife Tour is available to Experience between May 16, 2026 and October 4, 2026.

Activity policies

Tour Location: Campbell River Marine Centre (#129-1340 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC VV9W 8C9)

Please check-in at the Campbell River Marine Centre 30 minutes prior to your confirmed adventure time.

Onboard snacks are available for purchase with CAD cash only. 

A waiver must be signed prior to participation and any guest under 19 years of age will require a signature from a parent or guardian.

All tours booked through BC Ferries must be reserved at least 7 days in advance.

AVAILABLE IN  Campbell River, BC 

FROM September 21 - October 4

$206.00

+ taxes and fees, per adult

Tour Options

  • Date

Guests

 
 
Humpback whale jumping out of the ocean
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Guests onboard the Big Animal Encounters Whale and While Life Tour
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Orcas jumping out of the ocean
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Dolphin jumping out of the ocean
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Orcas swimming in the ocean
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Tour boat next to Humpbackwhale
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Close up of a Seal looking at camera
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Sea Lions on rocks
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Dolphin
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Andy Scheffler
Image of group of Dolphins swimming in the ocean
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Andy Scheffler
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