Points of Interest
Ports
Whales and Wild Isles of the Great Bear Rainforest
Wild Wonders That We Have Explored and Supported Since 1986
This epic summertime odyssey is about whales and the oceanic world they inhabit. Cruise along the remote north and central coast of the Great Bear Rainforest to faraway islands, by sailing ship or catamaran. Step onto wild, white-sand beaches, where the only footprints you’ll find belong to the elusive coastal wolf. Spend hours with humpback whales and other marine mammals, visit the best place on earth to see orcas (killer whales), and meet the whale researchers who are making new discoveries from their station at the aptly named Whale Channel.
Rainforest, other wildlife, and frequent shore trips round out this amazing tour of British Columbia’s remarkable natural and cultural history. This is our award-winning journey into the nature, wildlife and culture of the Great Bear Rainforest.
Itinerary Details
- Ships: Maple Leaf, Cascadia
- Duration: 5, 8 or 9 Days
- Ports: Kitimat, Port McNeill, Bella Bella, Port Hardy, Prince Rupert
Experience the Great Bear Rainforest in Summer
See the Great Bear Rainforest through the eyes of our guests.
Highlights
Cruise Whale-Rich Channels and Untouched Shores
Enter the spectacular world of the cetaceans of Canada’s Inside Passage and outer coast.
Related Stories
Follow our coastal expeditions with notes from the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to your questions about our Great Bear Rainforest summer tours. Refer to our Frequently Asked Questions for more general trip and booking information.
Port McNeill, Bella Bella, Port Hardy, Prince Rupert and Kitimat can all be reached by air through Vancouver airport (YVR). If you choose to travel by car, there is limited parking by the marinas at Port McNeill, Port Hardy and Kitimat for a daily fee. Specific information for your journey and contact information for local taxi companies (or information on pre-arranged shuttle services, if available on your trip) will be provided in a welcome email prior to your trip.
Our schedule is designed to accommodate incoming flights on the day of departure and most guests will arrive on the day. But, if you would like to arrive a little early to avoid the stress of possible flight delays, you will find recommendations for local accommodations and activities in your welcome aboard package. Please do not book nonrefundable airfare before getting the boarding and disembarking times for your trip.
During summer, you can expect average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). However, temperatures can occasionally reach higher depending on the specific weather patterns. Rainfall is a characteristic feature of the rainforest, so be prepared for occasional showers or drizzles. It’s a good idea to pack rain gear and clothing suitable for varying weather conditions. The summer season provides a peak opportunity to experience the region’s breathtaking coastal scenery and active marine life.
While the Great Bear Rainforest is home to a significant bear population, Summer is not the optimal time to spot bears in the region. During this time of year, bears are often up in the mountains, foraging for berries and other food sources. If your main goal is to see bears, you may have better success during the spring or fall, when bears return to lower elevations to feed on sedges or salmon. Summer on the other hand offers increased opportunity to see migratory sea mammals such as humpback whales, orcas, and if lucky, coastal wolves. Our experienced guides will do their best to enhance wildlife viewing opportunities and share knowledge of local wildlife.
Spirit bears live in the Great Bear Rainforest year-round but it’s unlikely you will see one in the spring. The best time for the opportunity to view a spirit bear is after the rains have come in autumn. This means you should plan to come in September or October if you are interested in seeing a spirit bear.
Yes, summer is a peak time to visit the Great Bear Rainforest. With pleasant weather, lush greenery, and longer daylight hours, you can enjoy incredible outdoor recreation and explore diverse landscapes. The stunning coastline offers opportunities for kayaking and wildlife watching. You’ll encounter a range of wildlife, from eagles to marine mammals and if lucky, a coastal wolf. Also, our summer itineraries allow for cultural experiences with local Indigenous communities, and opportunities to visit whale research stations.
