Why Nanaimo?
The waters surrounding Nanaimo are home to dozens of pods of transient orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, harbour seals, porpoises, eagles and more.
Most of the whales sighted near Nanaimo are transient orcas and humpback whales, whose populations are both growing! Departing from Nanaimo helps minimize vessel traffic surrounding the endangered southern resident orca populations, which are typically spotted in the busier waters further south. Not to mention - the transient orcas are the most exciting whales to watch! They're the only orcas in BC that prey on marine mammals, and their collaborative hunting is nothing short of incredible to witness!
Records also show that over the past two years, whale watchers in our region (North of Victoria, South of Campbell River) have sighted more orcas near Nanaimo and Gabriola Island than anywhere else in the Salish Sea, with a success rate of over 90%.
Come join us on this exciting adventure where you'll be introduced to the Salish Sea ecosystem and wild life as you cruise through the Gulf Islands archipelago in search of whales and other marine life! You'll learn about the different types of whales that use the Salish Sea, including their natural history, and their roles in the marine food web.
What to wear
- Bring clothes for warm and cold weather
- A warm sweater and a light jacket (waterproof jacket if possible)
- Warm pants (if you have waterproof pants you may want to bring them)
- Appropriate footwear (running shoes, hiking boots, or rubber boots)
What to bring:
- A change of socks, shoes, and pants: your clothes may get wet
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- A small camera (waterproof is ideal)
- A warm hat or toque & gloves
- Sunscreen
Meeting Location:
VIU Building 255 - Main Lobby
Trip Includes:
Transportation to and from whale watching tour, professional guided whale watching tour in the Salish Sea.
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 Building 255.
You will need to have your:
- Student card,
- Proof of medical insurance (BC Care Card or Guard.me Insurance Policy)
- Payment (cash is currently the only method of payment for activities)
Hours & Locations for Signing Up with us:
Faculty of International Education Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4 pm in Building 255, Second Floor Reception.
Lunchtime Activity Sign Up Booth Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12 pm to 1 pm in Building 255, First Floor International Commons.
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
phone: 250-753-3245, Ext. 2737
e-mail: Kelsey.Moon@viu.ca
Attachments
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| VIU Cultural Connections Waiver | 297.5 KB |