North America

Day 1 : Vancouver

Arrive at Vancouver International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel.  Take the rest of the day to create your own urban adventure amid the stores, parks, restaurants, theatres and other attractions in downtown Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver.

Day 2 : Victoria, British Columbia

Distance: 45 miles

The B.C. Ferries cruise across the Strait of Georgia will transport you past the rugged coastline and tranquil beaches of the Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island. Continue down the Saanich Peninsula to Victoria, the capital of British Columbia. Victoria has a fascinating marine heritage and has retained its colonial charm. You may end your day with a visit to the Empress Hotel for a traditional High Tea. Overnight in Victoria.

Day 3 : Victoria, British Columbia

Today, you will launch into the Pacific aboard a Zodiac powerboat. You will seek out orca, minke and grey whales, seals, porpoises and other marine wildlife.

Following your excursion, drive through the serene beauty of the Saanich Peninsula for a visit to Butchart Gardens, one of Victoria's most celebrated sites and rated among the most beautiful gardens in the world. Once there, stroll through the colourful arrangements of the Sunken Garden, the Japanese and Italian Gardens, the English Rose Garden and the magnificent Ross Fountain. Overnight in Victoria

Day 4 : Tofino

Distance: 213 miles

Be sure that you have your camera at the ready – a panorama of scenic beauty is about to unfold before you. Your road leads across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast winding through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. You’re venturing into true wildlife territory here: The Pacific Rim National Park is a marvel of ecological and geographical diversity. Overnight in Tofino.

Day 5 : Tofino

Today you are taking part in a thrilling whalewatching expedition. Your search for the Pacific grey whale, sea lions and puffins will hopefully be rewarded with an unforgettable close encounter in Clayoqout Sound with one of the world’s largest mammals.

Back on dry land, you’re free to explore the rugged coastline along the network of hiking trails or to walk the shoreline of Long Beach in search of shells and driftwood. Overnight in Tofino.

Day 6 : Campbell River

Distance: 193 miles

This morning, the spectacular winding road takes you back to the eastern coast of Vancouver Island with visits to Horne Lake Caves or Cathedral Grove. Your route will introduce you to many gems – including native rock carvings at Sproat Lake and the picturesque falls at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park.

Tonight you will have time to explore the quaint town of Campbell River. Stroll down the Discovery Pier for a chance to see salmon, eagles, or even whales; take in views of Discovery Passage, Quadra Island and the rugged Coast Mountain range of mainland British Columbia; or partake in one of the many locally available fishing excursions.Overnight in Campbell River.

Day 7 : Knight Inlet

Today’s destination, Knight Inlet Lodge, is not accessible by road, so you’ll fly in by floatplane from Campbell River. A thrilling 30-minute flight brings you to the mouth of the Glendale River, where Knight Inlet Lodge floats on large cedar booms. Bring your camera: today you’ll be going on a bearwatching and wildlife viewing tour. Be prepared to relish the lush West Coast rainforests and marvel at the abundance of wildlife! Mostly in the spring, the river is a popular fishing spot for hungry grizzly bears. Overnight in Knight Inlet. Lunch and dinner included

Day 8 : Vancouver

Distance: 106 miles

This morning you will return to Campbell River by floatplane. Your route back to Vancouver will take you through breathtaking coastal scenery. The Coast Mountain Range in the hinterland forms the backdrop to rugged headlands, serene lagoons and dense lush forests. Keep a keen eye out for loons, bald eagles, Canada geese, deer and black bears. Take a cruise on B.C. Ferries back to Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver. Breakfast included.

Day 9 : Vancouver

Today is your last day in Vancouver before heading back home. However your adventure doesn't have to end here, perhaps you may want to extend your stay and head to Banff National Park in the Rocky Mountains?

Call the travel specialists at Bon Voyage to discuss your perfect Whales, Bears and Vancouver discovery.