Vancouver: Covered Whale Watching Adventure with Free Photos

If you’re heading to Vancouver and love the idea of seeing whales in their natural habitat, you’ve probably come across various tour options. One that keeps catching attention is the Covered Whale Watching Adventure offered by PRINCE OF WHALES. It’s rated nearly perfect, with a 4.8 out of 5 from over 2,100 reviews, which already sounds promising. But what’s it really like? We’ve taken a deep dive into everything you need to know to decide if this tour is worth your time and money.

What immediately draws us in about this experience are a couple of standout features. First, the guaranteed whale sightings—yes, if you don’t see whales the first time, you can join another tour. That kind of confidence from the operator is pretty reassuring. Second, the free, high-resolution photos taken during the trip are a real bonus. No more frantic snapping or missing those shots of whales breaching—your camera will thank you.

However, there are some things to consider. The price point of $170 per person isn’t cheap, especially if you’re traveling on a budget. But based on what’s included—expert guides, multiple viewing levels, guaranteed wildlife sightings, and the photo package—the value seems fairly solid. This tour is ideal for those who want a well-organized, reliable, and immersive experience rather than a rushed or overcrowded one.

If you’re someone who appreciates knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and the thrill of seeing whales, this trip might just be your highlight in Vancouver. But if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or want a totally outdoors-only experience without indoor options, you might want to weigh your choices.

Key Points

• Guaranteed whale sightings mean you’re likely to see marine life or get a free re-try.
• Multiple viewing levels and heated cabin offer flexibility and comfort in all weather conditions.
• Professional guides and live commentary enhance your understanding of the wildlife and area.
• Free high-quality photos let you relax and enjoy the moment without worrying about capturing every shot.
• Flexible tour options include half-day or sunset cruises to match your schedule and preferences.
• No hotel pick-up is included, so plan your transportation to Granville Island accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect

This tour kicks off from Granville Island, a lively hub with plenty of cafes, shops, and a good vibe. You’ll meet at the Prince of Whales Adventure Centre, right next to a prominent local store and opposite Bridges Restaurant. The check-in process is straightforward, and the boat itself is a state-of-the-art, covered Salish Sea catamaran—designed for stability, comfort, and excellent visibility.

Once onboard, you’ll discover that the boat has three levels of viewing areas. You can stay inside the heated cabin if you prefer to stay warm or venture outside onto the decks for a more exhilarating experience and better photo opportunities. With two outdoor levels and a sheltered inside space, there’s plenty of room for everyone to find their favorite vantage point.

The route takes you through the waters of the Strait of Georgia, with views of the Gulf Islands, San Juan Islands, and Howe Sound. It’s a route that’s often praised for its scenic beauty, even if you don’t see whales. The crew is eager to share insights on the local geology and marine life, making the journey informative as well as exciting.

Wildlife You Might Encounter

Most travelers hope to see orcas, humpbacks, minke, and gray whales, and the tour guarantees at least one whale sighting, or you can join another tour at no extra cost. Many reviews highlight successful sightings, with some guests catching multiple whale species in one trip. According to reviews, “we saw humpbacks, orcas, seals, and sea lions”, and others mention seeing bald eagles and porpoises.

The wildlife sightings depend on the day and conditions, but the crew’s experience and dedication are often praised for maximizing your chances. Even if whales are elusive, travelers often still leave happy, citing stunning scenery and close encounters with seals and sea lions.

The Guides and Service

One of the recurring themes in reviews is the knowledge and enthusiasm of the crew and guides. They’re described as “very polite,” “friendly,” and “incredibly knowledgeable,” often sharing interesting facts about the animals and the area. Several reviews mention how guides went above and beyond to make everyone comfortable and informed.

A notable feature is the Jr. Naturalist guides and educational coloring books, making the experience engaging, especially for children or curious minds. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or just along for the ride, you’ll likely appreciate the crew’s passion.

Food and Drinks

Complimentary hot beverages—coffee, tea, and hot cocoa—are included, making the chilly waters more bearable. Snacks are available for purchase, but many find the free drinks sufficient for a 5-hour trip. The boat’s facilities are generally well-maintained, and the availability of toilets is a plus for longer trips.

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Photos and Memories

A big perk is the free digital photos taken by the crew. These are high-resolution images of the wildlife, the boat, and even the route map. Guests consistently praise the quality of these photos, saying it allows them to relax and enjoy the scenery without constantly trying to snap shots themselves. One reviewer even commended the “amazing photos sent via email,” making it a real value add.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

The tour lasts about five hours, with options for morning or afternoon departures, plus a sunset cruise if you want to catch a different kind of scenery. After check-in at Granville Island, the boat departs on time, and the crew begins by sharing some introductory commentary.

The journey takes you into the waters where whales frequent, with the crew actively searching for signs of marine life through binoculars and experience. When whales are spotted, the boat slows, and everyone gets a chance to observe from multiple levels. The guide explains what you’re seeing, making the experience both fun and educational.

There’s plenty of time to enjoy the views of the Gulf Islands, San Juan Islands, and Howe Sound, with the boat’s spacious decks providing an excellent backdrop for photos. If whales aren’t immediately apparent, the crew remains optimistic and continues the search, often finding something spectacular.

Once whales are spotted, guests often talk about how “they got so close” and how “the whales lingered for a while”. This is a big plus, as some tours rush past sightings for the sake of quantity, but this experience emphasizes quality and respect for the animals.

Weather and Comfort

Thanks to the covered design of the boat, you’re protected from rain and wind, which is especially helpful given Vancouver’s unpredictable weather. During reviews, many mention feeling warm enough thanks to the heated cabin and warm drinks, even in cooler weather.

Group Size and Atmosphere

While the exact group size isn’t specified, the experience seems to cater to small to medium-sized groups, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere. Many reviews describe the crew as “friendly and enthusiastic,” and the environment as relaxed and welcoming.

Price and Value

At $170 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option around, but considering what’s included—the expert guides, guaranteed wildlife sightings or your next trip free, multiple viewing areas, and free professional photos—the value seems fair. Many travelers feel that the high chance of success, combined with the quality of the experience, justifies the price.

Compared to other tours that might be crowded or less informative, this experience appears well-organized and customer-focused, which is often reflected in the reviews.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This whale-watching adventure is ideal if you’re eager to see marine wildlife with a high success rate. It’s perfect for travelers wanting comfort, flexibility, and educational value, especially if you prefer to avoid the unpredictability of outdoor-only boats in bad weather. The inclusion of free photos makes it attractive for people who want to capture memories without fuss.

It’s also suitable for families or anyone interested in marine life, thanks to the educational guides and friendly atmosphere. However, it’s not specifically geared toward children, so if you’re traveling with very young kids or strollers, check for size limitations.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Vancouver Covered Whale Watching Adventure offers a professional, enjoyable way to see whales and marine life, especially if you value comfort, knowledgeable guides, and the chance to get guaranteed sightings. While the price might seem steep, the inclusion of free photos and the promise of wildlife encounters make this a solid choice for most travelers looking for a memorable day on the water.

If you love wildlife, scenic views, and well-organized tours, this experience ticks most boxes. The reviews confirm that many guests leave feeling lucky and well looked after, with plenty of stunning photos to remember the day by.

Who Should Consider This Tour

• Travelers seeking a reliable, high-quality wildlife experience.
• Those who value comfort and flexibility on a boat tour.
• People interested in educational commentary about marine animals and the local environment.
• Visitors wanting professional photos of their trip.
• Anyone looking for a full 5-hour adventure with guaranteed wildlife sightings.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own camera?
You’re welcome to bring your own camera or smartphone, but the tour provides high-resolution photos for free, so you can relax and enjoy the moment.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, the boat is covered, which offers protection from rain and wind, making it comfortable in various weather conditions.

Are hot drinks included?
Absolutely, hot coffee, tea, and hot cocoa are included, helping you stay warm during the trip.

Can I choose a sunset tour?
Yes, there is a sunset option available, providing a different scenic experience as the sun dips below the water.

What if I don’t see any whales?
The tour guarantees whale sightings. If you don’t see whales on your first trip, you are allowed to join another tour at no extra cost.

How long does the tour last?
The standard tour lasts about 5 hours, with options for mornings or afternoons.

Is there a group size limit?
While not specified, reviews suggest a comfortable, well-managed group size conducive to good viewing and personal attention.

Are snacks available?
Snacks can be purchased on board, but complimentary hot beverages are provided.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in closed-toe shoes; Vancouver waters can be cool, even in summer.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transportation to Granville Island.

In the end, if wildlife encounters, comfort, and quality photos matter to you, this Vancouver whale-watching tour offers a thoroughly enjoyable and trustworthy option. It’s a chance to see the Pacific’s magnificent creatures in a respectful and well-organized setting—truly a memorable part of any Vancouver trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: