Homalco Wildlife & Culture Tour

Trip Information

Join us on Whales (Qʷ̓ənɛs), Wildlife and Culture – an excursion of discovery focused on large marine mammals combined with a fascinating view into the world of local First Nations. Campbell River, BC ranks among the most sought-after destinations for viewing some of the world’s most magnificent marine mammals. The tour departs from Discovery Harbour Marina aboard a custom-designed tour vessel to search for humpback whales, orcas (killer whales), porpoises, dolphins, sea lions, otters, bald eagles and a variety of marine birds.

Your journey with a First Nations tour operator is complimented with a unique Indigenous perspective on your marine wildlife experience. Campbell River and the Discovery Islands contain a rich First Nations history with millennia of occupation by the people of Homalco, Klahoose, Tla’amin, K’ómoks, Wei Wai Kum, We Wai Kai and more. The guides and skippers will share their knowledge of history, legends, stories and culturally significant sites.

What to wear

• Appropriate footwear
• Warm layered clothing and rain gear
• Hat (toque, beanie, or sun hat)

What to bring:

• Water bottle 
• Snacks
• Money for snacks/food/shopping
• A packed lunch and dinner (if you choose not to purchase food)  
• Camera (tripod and monopod restricted)
• Sunglasses (polarized - if you have them) 
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Binoculars
• Backpack to carry all your items
• Curiosity 

Meeting Location: 

VIU Building 255, Main Lobby (second floor) at 9:30 am

Trip Includes:

Round-trip Transportation to Campbell River, Whale, Wildlife & Culture Boat Tour (professional guide included), Free time for food/shopping. 

Policies, Health & Safety

We have an ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and quality of our trips, with trained and responsible student leaders, staff and community partners. Before you sign-up, please check out our policies & procedures for more information about how to prepare for a trip, as well as our cancellation policy.

How to Sign Up

Our activities are available to all current VIU Students. Sign up with us in person in at the Front Reception Desk on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am – 1pm in Building 255 - Second Floor.

You will need to have your:

1. Student card,
2. Proof of medical insurance (BC Care Card or Guard.me Insurance Policy)
3. Payment (cash is currently the only method of payment for activities)

Waiver Form

Please read our general waiver form for VIU group activities in the attachment section below. All participants are required to read and sign the waiver before the start of the trip. We will provide a paper copy for you to read through again and sign the morning of the trip.

Contact

Kelsey Moon – Activity Program Coordinator
Kelsey.moon@viu.ca
250-753-3245 x 2737