Overview
Depart from our Campbell River Marine Adventure Centre aboard our comfortable, heated, covered vessels for a scenic 2 hour boat trip into Bute Inlet.
Your arrival at the dock in Orford Bay begins a 3 hour land-based experience led by members of the Homalco First Nations. Local Indigenous guides will transport you by bus to a variety of raised wildlife viewing platforms and prime ground viewing locations to look for the magnificent grizzly bear, elk, bald eagles, and more.
The grizzly bears converge on the Orford River valley between August and October every year to feast on the spawning salmon in preparation for the long winter hibernation.
During our trip to and from Bute Inlet you may also see killer whales, humpback whales, dolphins, porpoises, black bears, seals and sea lions, and a variety of colourful sea birds – all in an unspoiled natural environment.
Lunch is served in Orford Bay with an unobstructed view of the estuary and its spectacular mainland mountain surroundings.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Conservation Fees
Bottled water
Snacks
Lunch
Goods and Services Tax (GST)
Surcharges on fuel
Tea and coffee
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Guests must check in with our Marine Centre 24 hours prior to scheduled tour for confirmation.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Good to know
Guests must check in with our Marine Centre 24 hours prior to scheduled tour for confirmation.
Please arrive at our marine centre 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure in order to complete check in and sign waiver.
We operate heated covered vessels, however please ensure you come dressed for the ever changing weather of the British Columbia coast.
Consider bringing;
Sunglasses
Enclosed footwear
Light, waterproof jacket
Hat
Sun screen
Camera
Snacks
* Important: Lunch is included on this trip. Please contact us in advance if you have any food allergies of special dietary needs. email: explore@biganimalencounters.com
See a video on what we are doing to keep our visitors, crew and community safe here: https://youtu.be/SPjH9vWytSw
What to expect
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Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park
keeping our eyes open for whales and other marine mammals in the area
-
Desolation Sound Marine Provincial Park
3 hours
After a scenic boat ride we'll arrive at the Orford River in Bute Inlet where you will be met by members of the Homalco First Nations. You will have an opportunity to view Grizzly Bears as they descend on the river to feast on salmon.
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Times are local to the experience (America/Vancouver).
Additional Information
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
FAQs about Grizzly Bear Expedition
Can I cancel Grizzly Bear Expedition for free?
No. All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
How long does it take?
It takes about 9 hours.
Where does it start?
Guests must check in with our Marine Centre 24 hours prior to scheduled tour for confirmation.
What's included?
- Conservation Fees
- Bottled water
- Snacks
- Lunch
- Goods and Services Tax (GST)
- Surcharges on fuel
- Tea and coffee
What's not included?
- Gratuities
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.
Operated by Big Animal Encounters







