Grizzly Bear Expedition - Campbell River
Grizzly Bear Expedition
Your adventure begins at our Campbell River Marine Adventure Centre, where you'll board one of our comfortable, heated, and covered vessels for a scenic two-hour cruise through the breathtaking Desolation Sound Marine Park. As we glide past towering fjords, lush rainforests, and remote inlets, keep your eyes peeled — this stretch of ocean is alive with wildlife. Humpback whales, orca (killer whales), Pacific white-sided dolphins, black bears, harbour seals, and sea lions are often spotted along the way.
Upon arrival at Orford Bay, located deep within the traditional territory of the Homalco First Nation, you’ll step ashore for a three-hour immersive land-based experience. Knowledgeable and passionate guides will lead you on a cultural and ecological journey into the Orford River Valley, a sacred and biologically rich environment where the majestic grizzly bears gather each fall.
Traveling by bus to a series of safely elevated viewing platforms and prime ground-level observation areas, you'll witness these incredible animals in their natural habitat — often just meters away — as they feast on spawning salmon in preparation for winter hibernation. The sight of a powerful grizzly forgaing in the rushing rivers, surrounded by ancient rainforest and snow-capped peaks, is something you’ll never forget.
But bears aren’t the only highlight. Keep watch for Roosevelt elk, bald eagles, and other iconic Canadian wildlife that thrive in this vibrant ecosystem. Between August and October, the Orford River teems with life, offering a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Midway through your day, enjoy a fresh, hearty lunch served dockside in Orford Bay, overlooking the serene estuary framed by rugged mountain backdrops. It’s a moment of peaceful reflection amid the wild — and the perfect time to soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
After your expedition, we return to Campbell River by boat, with more chances to spot marine life and absorb the raw beauty of the coast.
Why Choose Our Grizzly Bear Expedition?
Expert Indigenous Guides
Comfortable, heated vessels
Multiple bear viewing locations — both raised and ground-level
Incredible opportunities to see whales, dolphins, bears, eagles, and more
A powerful blend of wildlife, culture, and scenery in one unforgettable day
Book your seat today and prepare to be humbled by nature. This is more than a tour — it’s a connection to the land, wildlife, and ancient traditions of the coast.
An Unforgettable Wildlife Adventure in the Heart of Coastal British Columbia -
Get ready for the experience of a lifetime on our Grizzly Bear Expedition, an awe-inspiring journey into the pristine wilderness of British Columbia’s spectacular coast.
What’s Included in Your Grizzly Bear Expedition
Your Grizzly Bear Expedition is a full-day adventure that includes everything you need for a comfortable, safe, and unforgettable wildlife experience:
🛥️ Marine Wildlife Cruise
Scenic 2-hour boat ride each way aboard a heated, covered vessel
Travel through Desolation Sound and Bute Inlet
Opportunities to spot humpback whales, killer whales (orcas), Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, harbour seals, and more
🐻 Grizzly Bear Viewing Experience
3-hour guided land tour in Orford Bay
Led by knowledgeable First Nation guides
Visits to multiple elevated viewing platforms and ground-level sites
Observe grizzly bears in their natural habitat during peak salmon run season (Aug–Oct)
Possible sightings of elk, bald eagles, and other wildlife
🍽️ Dockside Lunch
Enjoy a fresh prepared lunch served at the dock in Orford Bay
Take in spectacular views of the estuary and surrounding mountains
🌿 Cultural Insight & Storytelling
Learn about the Homalco First Nation’s deep connection to the land and wildlife
Cultural interpretation and storytelling woven throughout the experience
✅ Everything You Need for the Day
All reserve permits, access and conservation fees
Use of on-site restrooms and visitor facilities (there are no washroon facilities for 3 hours while in the forest)
Safety briefing and orientation
Professional, experienced crew dedicated to your comfort and safety
💡 What to Bring:
Warm layered clothing, waterproof jacket, camera or binoculars, and a sense of adventure!
Please note the following important details before your tour:
Fuel Levy: Due to the volatile cost of fuel, a fuel levy is applied to all tours.
Taxes: A 5% Goods and Services Tax (GST) is not included in listed tour prices and will be added at the time of booking.
Itinerary & Vessel Changes: We reserve the right to modify tour itineraries or substitute vessels as necessary. Changes may occur due to weather conditions, wildlife movements, mechanical issues, or other operational requirements as determined by our skipper and crew in the interest of safety and the best possible experience.
Gratuities: Our crew work hard to ensure your tour is both exciting and comfortable. Gratuities for excellent service are never expected but always appreciated.
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all guests, please review the following important information prior to your tour:
Arrival Time
All passengers are required to check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Our vessel must depart on time, and unfortunately, we cannot wait for late passengers. Arriving late may result in missing the tour and is non-refundable.
Need Help?
If you have questions or need more details not listed here, please feel free to contact us directly:
📞 Toll-Free: 1-877-800-3483
📞 Local: +1-250-914-3483
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
To ensure the best experience for all our guests and to help us plan accordingly, please review our cancellation policy below:
Deposits & Payments
A deposit of 25% is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.
The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to the tour date.
Cancellation Terms
Cancellations made more than 30 days before the tour will receive a full refund minus $20 per passenger adminstration fee.
Cancellations made 30 days or less before the tour will forfeit the deposit.
Cancellations made less than 7 days before the tour will forfeit 100% of the tour fees.
Refund Exceptions
If we are able to fill your cancelled spot with another passenger, you will receive a full refund minus a $20 per passenger administration fee, regardless of when you cancel.
Cancellations by the Tour Operator
In the event that a tour must be cancelled due to mechanical issues, weather conditions, minimum number of passengers not met or other factors beyond our control, passengers will have the option to:
Priority re-booking for the next available date,
We will attempt to have you accommodated with another operator, subject to availability, or
Request a full refund of all fees paid, including the deposit.
We will make every reasonable effort to notify you as early as possible and help arrange an alternative where possible.
All cancellations must be submitted in writing and are considered effective from the date received.
We appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you aboard!
Telephone: 250-914-3483
Email: explore@biganimalencounters.com
