Cowichan Bay Marina at dusk with remaing sun shining off boats on Vancouver Island British Columbia

Cowichan Bay, BC


OVERVIEW

The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities. 

Cowichan Bay map with BC Ferries routes and nearby cities on Vancouver Island

Top things to do

Explore activities

Ocean Ecoventures - Sunset, Whale & Wildlife Tour Cowichan

See the west coasts most diverse marine ecosystem, as you set sail out of Cowichan Bay in search for marine mammals. On this 3-hour guided tour lead by marine researchers and naturalists, venture to seldom places seen on the remote waters of Vancouver Island. This journey will leave you longing to return again to this seemingly magical world whilst being inspired to make changes to help benefit our oceans.
Highlights:

  • 3-hour guided Whale-Watching tour of Cowichan Bay with an experienced marine researchers and naturalists 
  • Small personalized tour of 12 guests or less
Learn more >

FROM
$179.00
per adult

Book now

Ocean Ecoventures - Full Day Whale & Wildlife Adventure Cowichan

Sail around the edges of the Southern Gulf Islands and get to know BC's marine wildlife up close on this full-day whale-watching tour. Learn about the local waters with an expert naturalist and encounter orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat.

Tour highlights

  • See orcas feeding on migrating salmon in the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands.
  • Take in the breathtaking views of Cowichan Bay as you depart and keep your eyes peeled for Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and harbour seals along the way.
  • Travel with an expert naturalist and learn about the animals that reside in this ecosystem.
  • Guaranteed whale sightings so you can sail with confidence. 
Learn more >

FROM

per adult

Book now

Nearby cities

Main Street in Chemainus BC with people walking alongside Cafe and flowers in the foreground

Chemainus

Chemainus has won international acclaim for its successful revitalization project, which began in 1982 with the unveiling of five large murals, all professionally painted onto existing downtown buildings. It is also home to great theatre, restaurants and natural beauty. 

Aerial view of stone path through garden beside marina at Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa near Victoria

Brentwood Bay

Visit the rapidly growing village of Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Inlet, a 30-minute drive north of Victoria, to enjoy waterfront restaurants, relaxing strolls along the bay and a warm, welcoming community.  

Aerial view of Tsehum Harbour in North Saanich near Sidney on a sunny day

Sidney

Visit the seaside town of Sidney, just a few minutes down the road from Swartz Bay terminal, providing the ideal stop-off before or after you take the ferry. Go on an adventure to see local wildlife, or take a stroll in the town to check out the shops, marina and restaurants. 

House boats at Fisherman

Victoria

Visit the lush and beautiful oceanfront city of Victoria. The city is rich in British heritage, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings. You can enjoy lots of water and land activities, and taste a variety of craft beers and fresh seafood.

Known as the Garden City, Victoria is always in bloom and has one of the mildest climates in Canada—perfect for a trip any time of the year. 


 
 
 

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