Trip Description

Harbor seals, humpback whales, Dall’s porpoises and California sea lions converge each summer on the spectacular British Columbian coastline, providing the unmatched opportunity to study marine mammals in their natural habitats. Join us on one of our most extraordinary adventures — our staff’s favorite — to explore, learn and immerse yourself in the world of whales, seals and other marine mammals. With pristine wilderness, dramatic terrain and quaint fishing villages, Vancouver is a fantastic place to spend your summer. Learn and work alongside marine scientists, researchers and naturalist guides, both in the classroom and in stunning wilderness settings. You will never forget the first time you see a wild orca breaching or a pod of grey whales swimming past your boat. Two sea kayaking adventures give you ample opportunities to encounter wildlife up close, while more formal studies, community service work and hands-on research give you the in-depth knowledge to make the most of these experiences.

Itinerary & Country Map

• Day 1–5
  We kick off our adventure with a challenging sea kayaking expedition in one of the world’s most untouched settings, the rugged and pristine Deer Island Group in Barkley Sound. Together we cross the Trevor Channel, gliding past remote coves and keeping our eyes peeled for curious seals. For four days we explore, kayak, bond… Sleep to the sounds of the wild, wake to fresh air and bald eagles hunting for their breakfast. Swim in cool water, sunbathe on warm beaches, play Frisbee and spend evenings around a crackling bonfire. Out on the water, we search for breaching whales showing off their incredible force, schools of Pacific white-sided dolphins, and grey and humpback whales.

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  Day 6–12
  We settle in at the Bamfield Marine Science Centre which sits atop cliffs facing Barkley Sound and the Broken Island Group. Here we begin our formal and hands-on studies of marine mammals with resident faculty and researchers. In the classroom and labs, we learn about oceanography and the ecology of the whales, sea lions, porpoises, dolphins and seals found on Canada’s Pacific coast. Out in the field and on the water, we witness these magnificent creatures up close alongside marine mammal scientists. We conduct our own field studies and learn the significance of each species in the ecosystems they inhabit. Do plankton tows in Grapple Inlet, comb tide pools on Brady’s Beach, gather data aboard the Barkley Star and watch the mesmerizing spectacle of bioluminescence in Barkley Sound. Between our studies and research projects, there is still time to play on the beach at Pachena Bay, explore town and hike the beautiful West Coast Trail.

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  Day 13–16
  With a greater understanding of marine mammal ecology, we examine the cultural and social impact of these marvelous creatures on local communities. Participate in service projects that focus on the connections between ocean ecosystems, the watersheds that flow in to them and the communities of people that rely on their sustainability. Next, we travel to Telegraph Cove, a historic fishing village and the heart of Vancouver Island’s whale watching industry. Here we learn from local naturalists and researchers. Head out on whale watching boats to observe orcas, humpbacks and other marine mammals up close. Marvel at adult and juvenile eagles in their treetop perches. Spend time at the Whale Interpretive Centre checking out articulated skeletons from “The Bones Project” and learning about conservation efforts to protect marine mammals and their habitats. Take a break to hunt for sea glass on the beach, explore in a sea kayak or shop for souvenirs in the village. In the evenings we hike back to our camp to relax, enjoy dinner and roast marshmallows over an open fire.

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  Day 17–21
  We head out to the islands in Johnstone Strait for several days of kayaking and camping in some of the most breathtaking surroundings in North America. Rocky headlands and tide pools frame the landscape as we wake early to kayak on the glassy water that mirrors stunning mountains enshrouded by clouds. Explore remote islands and hike through towering trees in dense forests. Out on the water, we watch for herons soaring overhead, wildlife feeding and spyhopping orcas. Marvel as your guides lift sea urchins to the surface for you to examine and introduce you to the taste of fresh kelp. Sunsets here seem to last forever, giving us the perfect setting to reflect on our remarkable experiences, the great friends made and the lessons we will take home.

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