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Orcas and Grizzlies Tour with Air

5

Days

Trip Summary

We take pride in accessing remote areas and this trip is no exception. This trip includes return air from Vancouver to Port Hardy and taxi fare to Port McNeill. Here, you take a 30 minute BC Ferry to Alert Bay – “Home of the Orca”. This remote village on Cormorant Island will be your launch point for a nine hour boat trip to view grizzly bears. Across Johnstone Strait lies the historic Telegraph Cove, from where your whale watching boat departs. A day is also set aside to explore the Village of Alert Bay, one of the friendliest villages on the North Island. Click here for more information about Alert Bay Lodge.

  • Length of trip: 5 days
  • Season: July 1 to September 30, 2026
  • Capacity: singles and couples
  • Dates: Open departures; please inquire before booking

 

Double Occupancy (2 people sharing a room)
Single Occupancy (one person in a room)
$3165 Orcas and Grizzlies Package
$3165 Orcas and Grizzlies Package
$158.25 GST
$725 Single Supplement
$158.25  GST
$3323.25 Total Price (CAD)
$4048.25 Total Price (CAD)

We are honored to live and work on the traditional, ancestral and unceded Kwakwaka’wakw territory of the Kwakkiutl, Mamalilikala and ‘Namgis nations.

Overview

5 Days, 4 Nights. Explore pristine waters and wilderness areas to see Orcas (“killer whales”) and grizzly bears off the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, Canada. This self-guided wildlife tour is designed to provide you with authentic wildlife and cultural experiences while staying on a remote island in the Northern Gulf Islands. This area sports sheltered waters and plentiful land and marine life, including the largest population of orcas in western North America. At the end of the Strait lies Knight Inlet, home to a thriving population of grizzly bears.

During the course of your three full days on Cormorant Island, one day will be occupied by whale watching and another day will focus on a grizzly bear viewing tour. We’ve set aside a third day to explore the Village of Alert Bay (pop. 1,200), one of the few remaining authentic coastal communities on the west coast of British Columbia. Day 1 and 5 are occupied by return transportation to Alert Bay from Vancouver or Victoria (included).

You’ll be treated with a high level of service at the waterfront inn and will also be afforded time to explore the colourful village that is Alert Bay. Overlooking Johnstone Strait, the log lodge offers panoramic views of sunsets, mountains, local marine traffic and sometimes pods of orcas. A large common room and sundeck are favourite places for guests to gather, converse and dine. From the lodge, Alert Bay Village is two kilometers along the ocean-front road. On the way, you’ll pass the ‘Namgis Burial Grounds. From the Village the U’mista Cultural Centre, Big Tree Trail and Ecological Gardens are short walks away.

Restrictions on our wildlife excursions include those 8 years of age or younger and women in their final tri-semester. Days 2,3,4 and interchangeable and activities such as the bear watching can be changed right up to the night before the tour due to weather, tour operator logistics and other unseen circumstances.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Alert Bay, BC : Land on the North Island

After making your way to Vancouver International Airport, head to the South Terminal and check in at Pacific Coastal Air for your flight. Your 70 minute flight crosses Vancouver Island’s Inside Passage and lands at Port Hardy, near the Island’s north tip. At Port Hardy Airport, a taxi will be waiting to escort you to Port McNeill. Here you’ll board a coastal ferry as a foot passenger for a 35 minute voyage to Alert Bay, an island commuity with a thriving First Nations culture (please call 250.974.2410 to let us know what ferry you’re on). A lodge employee will meet you at the ferry terminal and escort you to the lodge. Please advise the manager what time you would like to take dinner.

Day 2 - Alert Bay, BC : Explore Our Village

Today is yours at leisure to explore the village of Alert Bay. After breakfast, the lodge manager will provide you with a map highlighting popular attractions on the 5 km long Cormorant Island and tickets to U’Mista Cultural Centre. Hiking trails encircle the island, there are beautiful ocean views from nearly every home, and the eclectic, small-town feel make Alert Bay a jewel for year-round residents, vacation home owners and visitors.

Day 3 - Alert Bay, BC : Grizzlies!

We depart at 6:45 am from Alert Bay for a full day on the water to seek out grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Our destination is Knight Inlet, a two hour ride by covered boat into Johnstone Strait. Becoming famous for its population of Grizzly bears, Knight Inlet a long and deep glacier-carved fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains and steep-sided, forested cliffs. Here we drift, paddle and motor quietly around an estuary, looking to spot grizzly bears as they feed on the sedges and grasses at high tide. Low tide brings more bears out, and we may see them turn over large boulders in their search for crabs, isopods and beach barnacles. On some tides we transfer to our flat bottomed skiff to get into the shallows. Please bring your binoculars and camera! Lunch is included.

Day 4 - Alert Bay, BC : In search of whales and orcas

It’s time explore Johnstone Strait the Broughton Archipelago for whales and dolphins, areas home to some of the most spectacular marine wildlife viewing in Canada. On this excursion, you’ll also be able to explore the village of Telegraph Cove, once the northern terminus for the telegraph line from Campbell River and now a launch point for eco-tourism.

Day 5 : Back to the Big City

After breakfast we call your taxi and get you on the right ferry to Port McNeill. Your up-Island journey continues when you’re picked up by taxi at the Port McNeill Ferry Terminal and escorted to Port Hardy Airport. Here, you catch an afternoon scheduled flight to Vancouver, BC.

What's Included?

We include:

Summary

  • Accommodation for 4 nights in Alert Bay
  • 4 breakfasts, and 1 lunch
  • 8 hour Grizzly Bear tour
  • 3 hour whale watching tour
  • 2 tickets to U’Mista Cultural Centre
  • Return air from Vancouver International Airport to Port Hardy
  • Return taxi from Port Hardy to Port McNeill
  • Return taxi to Alert Bay Lodge from Alert Bay
Double Occupancy
(2 people sharing a room)
Single Occupancy (one person in a room)
$3165 Orcas and Grizzlies Package
$3165 Orcas and Grizzlies Package
$158.25 GST
$725 Single Supplement
$158.25  GST
$3323.25 Total Price (CAD)
$4048.25 Total Price (CAD)

Day 1: Transportation to Alert Bay Lodge

  • Arrival: Flight from YVR South Terminal to Port Hardy Airport
  • Taxi transfer from Port Hardy Airport to Port McNeill
  • Taxi transfer from Alert Bay Ferry terminal to Alert Bay Lodge

(All transportation is covered from Vancouver International Airport to Alert Bay save foot passenger passage on Alter Bay ferry; about $18 return)

Day 2: Grizzly Bear Tour

  • Light breakfast or breakfast onboard
  • Grizzly Bear Tour -taxi transfer from Alert Bay Lodge to Government Wharf
  • 9-hour grizzly bear viewing marine tour
  • Return transportation to Alert Bay Lodge

Day 3: Telegraph Cove Whale Tour

  • Breakfast
  • Full day excursion from Alert Bay Lodge to Telegraph Cove including 3.5-hour whale watching marine tour and
  • Return taxi transfer from Telegraph Cove to Port McNeill Ferry terminal and taxi transfer from Alert Bay Ferry Terminal to Alert Bay Lodge

Day 4: Free Day to explore Alert Bay

  • Breakfast
  • Admission ticket to U’mista Cultural Centre

Day 5: Return to Vancouver

  • Breakfast
  • Taxi to Port Hardy
  • Air to Vancouver, BC

* Order of days may vary

Not included:

  • Single supplement of $725
  • Meals unless otherwise stated
  • Taxi from the U’mista Cultural Centre to the lodge (about 2.5 kilometers from the lodge)
  • Return Ferry Passage
  • Gratuities and 5% GST

Please note that guests prefer to walk along the ocean road after visiting the U’mista Cultural Centre and the Bear tour. The scenic walk takes one by the Village, the Chief’s Burial Grounds and homes along the water. Chances are you’ll meet some locals along the way. Otherwise a taxi is between $8.00 and $10.00.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the odds of seeing wildlife?
Between the whale tour and the bear tour, you will see wildlife! Beginning in July, we explore hidden habitats of grizzly bears in the spectacular X̱a̱ḵwika̱n (Thompson Sound), Hada (Bond Sound) or Glendale Cove. Other wildlife viewing opportunities include eagles, humpback whales, minke whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, Dahl’s Porpoises, seals, sea lions and wolves.
How do I pack?
As you’ll fly commercial air to Port Hardy, your luggage limitations are set. However, we recommend you travel light as you’ll be transferring from the Port Hardy Airport to a taxi and then as a foot passenger on the ferry to Alert Bay, followed by a taxi to the large.
Do you provide predeparture information?
Our package includes information on travelling responsibly, local social and environmental issues, the areas we visit, preparing for the tour and arriving in Alert Bay.
How do I dress for the Bear and Whale tours?
We recommend a daypack for your water bottle, camera, medication, binoculars and raingear. Please dress using the “layer method” – waterproof / windproof jacket on top, with a fleece liner over your shirt. Running shoes or hiking boots should have good grip soles. And don’t forget your Tilly!
What’s the population of Alert Bay?
Alert Bay has a population of about 1,200 comprised of the Village of Alert Bay, the ‘Namgis First Nation and Whe-la-la-u and Area Council. The island is accessible by a 35 minute ferry ride which departs six times as day from Port McNeill.
Is Alert Bay Touristy?
The natural beauty of the island has not been altered by large developments or crowds. Travellers can sea kayak, take a whale watching tour, explore the Island’s hiking trails, and rarely see other tourists. Most beaches are accessible by foot. The world-renowned Robson Bight Ecological Reserve, a favoured rubbing beach for killer whales, is just 30 minutes away by boat. Alert Bay is an ideal place to unwind and enjoy a place that appears to have stood still for half a century.
What time is check in?
Check in time is 3:00 pm and check out is 11:00 am. If you’d like to check in a little earlier, please call our managers at 250.974.2410.
What are the places to eat in Alert Bay?
Restaurants include the Bayside Grill, Nimpkish Hotel, Orca Inn, Duchess Bannock and Desserts and the Shop Rite Deli.
How do I dress for the Bear and Whale tours?
We recommend a daypack for your water bottle, camera, medication, binoculars and raingear. Please dress using the “layer method” – waterproof / windproof jacket on top, with a fleece liner over your shirt. Running shoes or light hiking boots should have good grip soles. And don’t forget your Tilly!
How can I reach Alert Bay Lodge?
The lodge managers can be reached at 250.974.2410. Our emergency cell is 250.888.7936.
How much is the single supplement?
$725 provides a private room and bathroom. It is more expensive than a double occupancy which enables the cost of a room to be split between two people sharing the same room.
Once I pay the deposit, what happens next?
Once you pay the deposit, we'll email you a package containing: 1. A receipt for the deposit. This receipt will also state when the balance of payment is due. 2. Waiver of Liability. 3. Medical Form. *Your second package will contain: 1. Flight Information. 2. Information about Haida Gwaii. 3. Suggested Packing List and accommodation List. *Sixty Days Prior to Tour departure (after full payment) 1. Detailed Tour itinerary.
Weather
The best months to visit Alert Bay are June to September for generally warmer weather, longer daylight, and better chances for marine excursions, with July and August being peak for warmth, while May offers fewer crowds, excellent birding, and vibrant wildlife, though be prepared for rain any time as it's a rainforest. September is great for salmon runs and fewer visitors, but expect more variable weather, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking bears and eagles.
Air to and from Port Hardy
Your fare includes a departure from YVR's main terminal to Port Hardy on Day 1 and return air from Port Hardy to the same airport on Day 5. Generally, we fly Pacific Coastal Air.
What is your trip schedule?
We offer nine departures, from late June to late August: https://midnightsuntravel.com/book/. The trip begins at Vancouver International Airport on Day 1 and ends at the same airport on Day 7. Dates and flight numbers will be on your itinerary.
Schedule of Payments
Once you select a date and complete and send the booking form, we take 20% as a deposit from the principal amount to secure your reservation. The deposit will be listed on the invoice we email to you within 14 days, as will the payment to be taken 60 days prior to departure date. As displayed in the Trip Summary, the principal amount is based on single occupancy or double occupancy along with GST. The principal will be taken from your credit card on file.
Eligilbility
Guests must sign a Medical Form and a Waiver of Liability 60 days before tour start date.
Cancellation and Refund Policy
To be eligible for a refund, cancellations must be made in writing 61 days in advance of the tour departure date. 61 days or more prior to tour departure: refund.* 60–0 days: loss of all advanced funds. Refunds. Providing a refund is owed by Midnight Sun Adventure Travel according to this policy and once verified in writing by the traveller, payment will be made by e-transfer, or, if you prefer, by cheque. *Please note that when we purchase your air ticket, we do so under your name. This means it is up to the person whose name is on the ticket to obtain a refund or credit. Depending on the particular Haida Gwaii property, room cancellations must be made 30 to 60 days in advance and will be subject to a 25% fee. Providing a refund is owed by Midnight Sun Adventure Travel according to this policy and once verified in writing by the traveller, payment will be made by e-transfer. If you must cancel, we will be as understanding as possible and will make every effort to be flexible.

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Map of the Area

Reviews

Write a Review
★★★★★
  • By Pamela Jahnke; Local Guide, 12 reviews

Natural Beauty, Intense Learning, Comfort and Love

Our recent small senior’s tour to Haida Gwaii! I’m still trying to wrap my head around this magical place and the strong, beautiful culture of the Haida people. The trip was a mixture of natural beauty, intense learning, comfort and love. Yes, love. We loved the Haida people and culture, their arts and history. We loved our guide, David, who knows so much and tells the stories with humility and compassion. We loved our small tour group of patient, flexible people. We were comfortable, challenged and supported at all times. This is what all small tours should be. Thanks to David and Midnight Sun!
  • Date of Experience: 25/08/2026
★★★★★
  • By Wendy White; 6 Reviews; Local Guide, Level 3

Really Explored the Culture and “Vibe”

We thoroughly enjoyed our small group one week trip to Haida Gwaii with Midnight Sun . Our guide David was so knowledgeable and passionate about the people and places we visited. He has cultivated great contacts with the Haida artists and locals, allowing us to really explore the culture and “vibe” of the area. The scenery and nature was spectacular! Going in a small group was very comfortable and convenient.

  • Date of Experience: 18/08/2026
★★★★★
  • By James Lawlor; local guide, level 2

Great Memories of People and Places

Haida Gwaii for seniors, August 12-18, 2026. A wonderful adventure with a unique flavour! David went above and beyond in making special visiting arrangements and adjusting to unforeseen issues (which were very minor). Although some accommodation was basic, it was clean and serviceable. It’s important to book this tour with the right attitude and expectations. This adventure tour will leave you with great memories of people and places. Haida Gwaii is very special!!!

  • Date of Experience: 18/08/2026
★★★★★
  • By Ilene Brecher

I Wasn’t Ready To Leave

Magical with Planned Spontaneity

I am not usually a group traveler. This trip met my expectations and more.
Haida Gwaii is rich in nature and Haida history and culture and David , our guide colorfully highlighted the experience with his intelligence, knowledge, curiosity, sense of humor and patience.
His love of and connection to the place and the people was infectious
Personally I wish there was an option for a 10 day trip., there was more I wanted to experience. I wasn’t ready to leave Haida Gwaii when the trip ended.
Ilene Brecher
July 2026

Date of experience: July 28, 2026

  • Date of Experience: 28/07/2026
★★★★★
  • By Peg McNichol; 3 reviews

An Amazing Place!!

I experienced the wonders of Haida Gwaii in July of 2026. We had great weather and David was an excellent guide. He took us places and shared his knowledge and experiences in such a way that greatly enhanced the trip. We learned so much about the culture of the Haida. What an amazing place!!

  • Date of Experience: 21/07/2026
★★★★★
  • By Chris D

Amazing Experience

Hi Scott, I had an amazing experience, at every step.

The lodge hosts were very welcoming, accommodating and kind. I had a delicious supper my first night and enjoyed the uniqueness and warm atmosphere of the lodge. My breakfast was excellent, as well. Delicious egg dish and tasty bacon, too.

The excursion with Sea Wolf was incredible. I was fortunate to have a pretty diverse group of people on the tour.  Our guide and deckhand, Karissa and Tyler, were top notch. I would book that experience again. Highly recommended.

I enjoyed my time at your property. Warm atmosphere, kind people, tasty food and a great view. I’d stay at Alert Bay Lodge again. If the opportunity happens and will recommend it to colleagues and friends.

Hope the rest of summer treats you well.

 

  • Date of Experience: 28/07/2025
★★★★★
  • By Nick C. & Chris L.

The whale and bear watching were completely awesome

All the arrangements worked really well, the whale and bear watching were completely awesome (not a word I use often or lightly!). We loved Vancouver Island and Alert Bay, and we’d love to be back there again one day.

  • Date of Experience: 18/08/2020
★★★★★
  • By Stephen C.

Fantastic Alert Bay adventure!

Fantastic Alert Bay adventure! Nina and Scott went out of their way to make our experience in Alert Bay special. We had a great trip up from Victoria with stops and stories along the way. Toured Alert Bay and learned a lot about the locals and the history of the area. Very special visits at the lodge from First Nation members who shared songs, lore and salmon preparation. A memorable experience!

  • Date of Experience: 09/09/2019
★★★★★
  • By B. Arn

I was very lucky with both whale and bear sightings

The whole trip went very well and I was very lucky with both whale and bear sightings. I would also like to mention Rich and Emma as they made my stay at the lodge excellent and were always available to help with any of my travel or trip arrangements.

  • Date of Experience: 29/08/2019
★★★★★
  • By Tracy C.

Supremely well organised

The whole tour could not be faulted, supremely well organised from start to finish. They even organised the bears to come and see us as well as the whales. If anybody wants to reconnect with nature, quietness and learn some Culture then I can’t recommend this highly enough. I left the Island a different person and couldn’t fault one part of this trip. I want to thank everybody involved in this Adventure because you are all Bloody Brilliant!

  • Date of Experience: 10/09/2018

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