Responsible
whale watchers.

Last Updated 05/05/2007

The following are frequently asked questions and answers about Ocean Explorations and Whale Watching.
If you would like us to answer a question not included below, please use this form


(1) What is Ocean Explorations?

(2) What kind of boats do you use?

(3) What is the ride like?

(4) What marine life is there to see?

(5) What else is there to see other than whales and marinelife?

(6) What are your departure times?

(7) How can we make reservations?

(8) Who leads the trips?

(9) When is the best time of year to see killer whales?

(10) What time of day is best to see whales?

(11) Are killer whales seen on every trip?

(12) Is it possible to hear the whales under water?

(13) Are guaranteed whale sightings available?

(14) How do you find the whales?

(15) Where do you go to see the whales?

(16) How close do you get to the whales?

(17) What equipment do you supply?

(18) How should I dress?

(19) Do I need to bring any special equipment?

(20) How many passengers go on each boat?

(21) What about sea sickness?

(22) Can anyone go on your trips?

(23) Where is Ocean Explorations located?

(24) Is there parking close by?

Top of Page

Answers to Questions

(1) What is Ocean Explorations?

Ocean Explorations is one of Victoria's original whale watching companies. We offer guided expeditions in search of Killer Whales and other marine wildlife. Ocean Explorations offers you a chance to witness nature's most noble creatures and some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in the world.

(2) What kind of boats do you use?

We use the Large* Safe Zodiacs. Our vessels are purpose built for whale watching; proper seating, twin engines, advanced navigation-communication equipment and even an underwater microphone to listen to whale vocalizations. Our boats meet and exceed the highest standards and are always maintained in top condition.

(3) What is the ride like?

Each expedition can cover a large area and encounter a variety of sea conditions. Generally the ride is smooth, there may be bumpy sections depending on the weather, wind direction and the area we are exploring. On windy days be prepared to get a little wet. Trips will be cancelled when sea conditions are unsafe.

(4) What marine life is there to see?

The main goal of each trip is to locate killer whales, However we often see much more; Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Minke Whales, Dolphins, Porpoises, Harbour Seals, Elephant Seals, Sea lions, Eagles, numerous species of sea birds and many other fascinating aquatic creatures.

(5) What else is there to see other than whales and marinelife?

Other than whales and marinelife you may see; beautiful shorelines, rugged coast, hidden reefs, islands, rocky outcrops, submerged rocks, kelp forests, secluded beaches, emerald green ocean, amazing seascapes, swirling currents, waves, whitecaps, glassy smooth water, ocean spray, blue skies, clouds, distant fog, morning mist, sunsets, reflections, mountains, freighters, tug boats, log booms, barges, yachts, windsurfers, seaplanes, a working harbour, light houses, marker boeys, interesting people and much more.

Top of Page

(6) What are your departure times?

There are departures throughout the day, see schedule.

(7) How can we make reservations?

Reservations can be made over the phone or you can reserve directly from this web site by submitting the online reservations form. Advanced reservations are recommended.

(8) Who leads the trips?

Tours are led by an experienced guide/naturalist, knowledgeable with regard to our marine environment and its inhabitants.

(9) When is the best time of year to see killer whales?

Killer whales are commonly seen April through October however the absolute best months are May, June and July.

(10) What time of day is best to see whales?

The chances of seeing whales are fairly even, morning, afternoon or evening. Typically we have whales for the whole day, however it is possible to have whales in the morning and for them to be to far away in the afternoon or the other way around. We suggest you pick a time that best fits in with your dayÌs schedule. Mornings may be calmer than afternoons, however that does not effect whale sightings.

(11) Are killer whales seen on every trip?

No, but the odds are well in your favor. April (55-65%), May (75-85%), June (90-100%), July (85-95%), August (80-90%), September (70-80%), October (55-65%). Porpoise are seen on most trips. Sightings of Grey Whales, Humpback Whales and Minke Whales may vary throughout the year. Over the past years, Humpback Whales have been sighted very consistently August through October.

(12 ) Is it possible to hear the whales under water?

Yes, each boat has a specialized under water acoustic system (hydrophone). When lowered over the side of the boat near the killer whales, their vocalizations are amplified and heard loud and clear.

Top of Page

(13) Are guaranteed whale sightings available?

Yes, arrange to call our office and we will alert you when sightings are 100%. This option is available May through August and works very well for those visiting Victoria for more than one day.

(14) How do you find the whales?

Over the years we have developed an excellent whale search network. This network gathers whale information from all over our local waters. For example, you may find a whale spotter high up on a hilltop over looking Juan De Fuca and Haro Straits. With our specialized surveillance equipment, we can find whales very far away. We find this to be a valuable technique, our sighting percentages are the one of the highest in the industry. Communication is also important; being able to get current whale information to expedition boats allows guides to go directly to whales.

(15) Where do you go to see the whales?

A typical trip may take us north towards the San Juan Islands or west around the southern tip of Vancouver Island. The final decision depends on daily weather conditions and whale information obtained by Ocean Base and our search network.


(16) How close do you get to the whales?

We are members of the Whale Watching Operators Association Northwest and follow set whale watching guidelines. However, close encounters are quite common when the boat is shut down and the whales approach us. Whales may travel within feet the boat.

(17) What equipment do you supply?

All guests are supplied with full length Mustang cruiser suits; we have all sizes Xsmall to XXl. These are coast guard approved flotation suits providing protection from the cool air and ocean spray. Gloves and binoculars are onboard each boat.

(18) How should I dress?

Dress as you would to go out side for the day. Keep in mind that the ocean air will always be cool. On a hot day wear pants or shorts, a T-shirt or light sweater, soft soled shoes or sandals. On a cold day dress warm; pants, warm sweater and or a fleece, soft-soled shoes, warm hat and gloves if you have them. Note: your cruiser suit has a built in hood.

Top of Page

(19) Do I need to bring any special equipment?

No special equipment is necessary, bring cameras, film, sunglasses and sunscreen. Dry storage is available onboard all the boats to keep equipment extra safe on wet days. Feel free to bring additional protection for your camera equipment, i.e. dry bag or plastic bag

(20) How many passengers go on each boat?

Each boat can take a maximum of 12 passengers.

(21) What about sea sickness?

Sea sickness is generally not a problem. Our boats are very stable, you have an unobstructed view of the horizon, and plenty of fresh air. If you have any doubts feel free to take your favorite motion sickness medicine.

(22) Can anyone go on your trips?

Tours are not recommended for children under five years of age, pregnant women and persons with back problems or frail health.


(23) Where is Ocean Explorations located?

Ocean Explorations is located on the Southern tip of Vancouver Island in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. You will find our office 602 Broughton Street. We are a short walk from most major hotels.


(24) Is there parking close by.

Yes, there are several parkades around our office. Free street parking Sundays and holidays.

Top of Page