Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat
Traveler rating
4.5/5
Based on 151 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat worth booking?
Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat is a 7-hour experience in Vancouver, Canada, from $543 per person. It scores 63 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.5/5 rating across 151 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 63 / 100
- Rating
- 4.5/5 (151)
- Duration
- 7 hours
- From
- $543 per person
Fly from Vancouver to Victoria on a 35-minute flight by seaplane and search for Orcas on a whale watching cruise on Haro Strait. Be kind to the environment with the most environmentally friendly form of transport between Vancouver and the mainland - carbon offset levy included! Upon arrival in Victoria set off on an exciting 3-hour cruise through Haro Strait, native home to orcas (killer whales), sea lions and seals, followed by a return flight to the mainland. This unique opportunity to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat will bring you insight that no aquarium can provide.
What you get
About this experience
Fly from Vancouver to Victoria on a 35-minute flight by seaplane and search for Orcas on a whale watching cruise on Haro Strait. Be kind to the environment with the most environmentally friendly form of transport between Vancouver and the mainland - carbon offset levy included! Upon arrival in Victoria set off on an exciting 3-hour cruise through Haro Strait, native home to orcas (killer whales), sea lions and seals, followed by a return flight to the mainland. This unique opportunity to see these magnificent animals in their natural habitat will bring you insight that no aquarium can provide.
What's included
Included
- Taxes and sustainability fees.
- Whale-watching cruise
- This is a whole-day, self-guided tour.
- Roundtrip scenic seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food and beverages
- Hotel pickup and drop off
What you'll see and do
Harbour Air
Begin your journey with a seamless check-in at the Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre, located in the heart of downtown. Please arrive at least 40 minutes prior to departure. Board your seaplane and enjoy a scenic 35-minute flight across the Georgia Strait. This flight is more than just transportation—it provides a captivating aerial experience, showcasing the stunning coastal beauty of the region, from island-dotted waters to the city skyline. As you fly over Vancouver’s iconic downtown, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Canada Place, the cruise terminal and hub of cultural events, and the Vancouver Convention Centre, a renowned center for global conferences and exhibitions. On your journey out of Vancouver, you’ll also pass the dramatic peaks of the North Shore Mountains, providing a stunning backdrop to the city.
40 minutes here
Shortly after takeoff, you'll soar over the shimmering waters of the Georgia Strait, with the forested Gulf Islands scattered below like gems. Each island offers a glimpse into the quiet, coastal lifestyle of small communities tucked into nature—an authentic look at life on BC’s rugged coastline.
Pass by without stopping
Wharf Street
Upon arrival in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, your immersive experience continues with a whale watching tour operated by Orca Spirit Adventures. Set out on the Salish Sea, home to an incredible diversity of marine life including orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. As you cruise through this vibrant ecosystem, you'll encounter protected marine areas known for their ecological significance—rich in biodiversity and carefully preserved for research and conservation. This tour offers more than just wildlife sightings; it's a chance to connect with the natural rhythms of the Pacific Northwest, guided by expert interpreters who share insights into local ecology and ongoing efforts to protect these precious environments.
180 minutes here · Admission included
Return to the Harbour Air Victoria Terminal, a bright and modern facility overlooking the Inner Harbour. With comfortable seating and spectacular waterfront views, it’s the perfect place to relax before your flight. Your return seaplane ride offers one final breathtaking aerial view of the coast as you fly back to Vancouver—concluding your day with a peaceful and inspiring perspective of British Columbia’s natural and urban landscapes.
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Vancouver
Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Check-in for your flight 40 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Check-in for your flight 40 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure.
Options you can book
8:25am flight-10am Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10 AM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
7:30am flight-10amCovered Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10AM COVERED BOAT. Located at 146 Kingston Street (15 min walk away from Harbour Air or 5 mins drive). Vehicle type: Seaplane, Covered Boat, Seaplane
7:45am flight-10amCovered Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10AM COVERED BOAT. Located at 146 Kingston Street (15 min walk away from Harbour Air or 5 mins drive). Vehicle type: Seaplane, Covered Boat, Seaplane
8:15am flight-10amCovered Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10AM COVERED BOAT. Located at 146 Kingston Street (15 min walk away from Harbour Air or 5 mins drive). Vehicle type: Seaplane, Covered Boat, Seaplane
8:00am flight-10am Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10 AM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
9:00am flight-2pm Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 6pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 2 PM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
9:15am flight-2pm Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 6pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 2 PM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
8:25am flight-10amCovered Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS : 10AM COVERED BOAT. Located at 146 Kingston Street (15 min walk away from Harbour Air or 5 mins drive). Vehicle type: Seaplane, Covered Boat, Seaplane
8:30am flight-10am Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10 AM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
8:00am flight-10amCovered Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10AM COVERED BOAT. Located at 146 Kingston Street (15 min walk away from Harbour Air or 5 mins drive). Vehicle type: Seaplane, Covered Boat, Seaplane
8:15am flight-10am Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 4pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 8 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 10 AM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
9:45am flight-2pm Zodiac Boat
RETURN FLIGHT: 6pm or later Check in 40 mins. prior Duration: 9 hours WHALE WATCHING TOUR 3+HOURS: 2 PM ZODIAC BOAT. Check-in is located right at the Victoria Seaplane dock. Vehicle type: Seaplane, Zodiac Boat, Seaplane
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Harbour Air Ltd
Know before you go
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult on the seaplane flight, and whale watching excursion.
- Not handicap accessible.
- Duration of tour may vary.
- On the whale watching excursion, covered vessel tours welcome people of all ages, however the zodiacs are restricted to those that are 6 years old and above, and a minimum height of 4 feet.
- Sorry, pets cannot be accommodated on the whale watching excursion. However, certified service animals can be accommodated on covered vessel tours only, and not zodiacs.
- All passengers 18 years and above must present either one piece of valid government issued photo identification, or two pieces of government-issued identification without a photograph
- Passengers must arrive at the terminal at least 40 minutes before the scheduled departure time, and be fully checked-in 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- Passengers not checked-in before the check-in cutoff times will not be able to board their scheduled flight and will not be refunded their fare.
- If travelling with children, please be aware that the child fare applies to children aged 2-11 at the time of departure.
- For your whale watching tour, we recommend that you dress warmly for the water, even during the summer, as it can get chilly traveling quickly over the ocean. Layering is a good idea, including a fleece jacket or sweater for cooler moments. Don’t forget your sunglasses, a camera (ask your captain for guidance on storage), a snug-fitting hat, sunscreen, and, most importantly, bring your sense of adventure!
- A mobility assistance device, such as a wheelchair or cane, may be used by a passenger to get from the terminal to the aircraft, however, passengers must have the ability to walk on and off the aircraft with minimal or no assistance.
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 150 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Organization
5 mentionsPickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
150 verified traveler reviews for Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Amazing whale watching tour
Well organised and wonderful trip seen loads of whales and sea lions we we’re lucky to see a whale breaching the sea lions were awesome to see wonderful tour
Response from the operator: ROLAND_S, thank you for your feedback! We're so happy to hear you had a wonderful flight and some special wildlife viewing opportunities during your boat tour. Such a memorable experience! We hope to welcome you aboard again in the future.
via Viator
Great trip
A great trip, the seaplane was a fabulous experience and we saw Orca and Humpback Whales on our boat tour. Seemless and efficient booking through tripadvisor. And the logistics of the day were very straightforward.
Response from the operator: M8007HCjessicab, thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted to hear you enjoyed the seaplane experience and had the chance to see both orcas and humpback whales on your boat tour. We're also glad the booking process and logistics were seamless and easy. Thank you for flying Harbour Air, and we hope to welcome you aboard again soon.
via Tripadvisor
Very fun. We did the...
Very fun. We did the zodiac whale watching tour and saw several whales and some sea lions and seals. The sea plane flights went without a hitch. We had some time to explore Victoria as well. Great tour, would recommend.
Response from the operator: Petra, hank you for your five-star review. We are thrilled you had such a fantastic time on your day trip to Victoria! We appreciate the recommendation, and we look forward to seeing you on your next flight with us!
via Viator
Full day excursion
Full day excursion fitting in 2 seaplane trips ,whale watching plus time to eat and wander in Victoria Saw group of orcas,sealions,elephant seal ,bald eagle and Barbour seals. Skipper took time to move the boat so we kept the orcas in sight for good while Great they have a photographer who will send you the pictures rather than try no do it yourselves.
Response from the operator: lindacjoy, thank you so much for sharing your experience. We're delighted you enjoyed a full day of adventure, from seaplane rides to whale watching, and had a whole day filled with wonderful memories! Thank you for flying with us, and we look forward to seeing you again on another excursion!
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic trip
Great experience, flight check in was seamless, Harbour Air had all our details and tickets for whale watching all ready. Enough time in Victoria for a coffee before whale watching which was amazing, saw whales, boat ride itself was so much fun. Plenty of time in Victoria after boat for lunch and see a few sites before flight back to Vancouver. Fantastic.
Response from the operator: BexBecstar, thank you so much for the detailed and kind review. We are thrilled you had such a fantastic time on your day trip to Victoria! We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 7 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $543 to $758
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 53
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Harbour Air Ltd, who run 15 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.5.
See everything Harbour Air Ltd runsWhy this scores 63
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Vancouver.
How much does Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat cost?
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Prices start at $543 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Vancouver usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat take?
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Plan for about 7 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Vancouver is not rushed.
Is Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 63 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.5/5 across 151 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Vancouver, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 7-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Around 53 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Vancouver can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Vancouver and add a light layer if any part of the 7-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Vancouver within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Vancouver?
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On Outty we rank every Vancouver experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Grand Bicycle Tour of Vancouver, The Stanley Park Bicycle Tour, Vancouver City Sightseeing Tour: Capilano Suspension Bridge & Vancouver Lookout. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Vancouver?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Vancouver?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Included: Taxes and sustainability fees; Whale-watching cruise; This is a whole-day, self-guided tour; and Roundtrip scenic seaplane flight from Vancouver to Victoria. Not included: Gratuities; Food and beverages; and Hotel pickup and drop off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Vancouver Harbour Flight Centre Unit #1 - 1055 Canada Place, Vancouver, BC, V6C 0C3 The seaplane terminal is located at Burrard Landing in Coal Harbour. Parking is available at 1095 W Waterfront Rd, Vancouver, BC. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; Not handicap accessible; and A mobility assistance device, such as a wheelchair or cane, may be used by a passenger to. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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Across 151 reviews averaging 4.5 out of 5, recurring themes include organization, photo opportunities. Pickup, timing, and logistics are described as running smoothly.
What booking options are available for Vancouver↔Victoria Day Trip by Seaplane + Whale Watching by Boat?
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There are 12 options to choose from, including 8:25am flight-10am Zodiac Boat, 7:30am flight-10amCovered Boat, 7:45am flight-10amCovered Boat, 8:15am flight-10amCovered Boat. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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