We’re here for the Wildlife

The Seasmoke Way

What does that mean? It means that we live and work in one of the best places to see orcas and humpbacks (and other wildlife!) in the world. The Broughton Archipelago and Telegraph Cove area boasts incredibly productive and sheltered water where wildlife thrive. The Northern resident orca population numbers well over 200 individuals, and the Biggs orca population on the Northwest coast is several hundred members strong. The number of humpback whales returning to feed here has been increasing from only 7 individuals in 2003 to around 100 now. The productive water also attracts dolphins, porpoises, sea otters, sea lions, seals and numerous species of birds.

But it also means that we want you to leave our tours with a greater understanding of why this place is so special and the motivation to help conserve this fragile ecosystem. We recognize that whale watching can have an impact on whales and we always aim to ensure the wildlife we are watching are undisturbed. We follow all whale watching guidelines (and exceed them if we need to), minimize engine noise, keep up with current research, pick up and dispose of marine debris when we see it, and are in the process of becoming carbon-neutral.

A portion of each ticket is donated to the North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association Conservation Fund which provides funding towards marine conservation activities around the Northern Vancouver Island Region. For more information on some of the projects that have received support, see Conservation Fund Recipients. We also support the Marine Education and Research Society, a Port McNeill-based organization, through their annual online auction, and the MARS Wildlife Rescue Centre with a monthly sponsorship of their two albino crows, Nimpkish and Kokish (who came from Port McNeill).

What you’ll get with Seasmoke:

  1. A high quality tour with only 10-12 passengers (or less).

  2. An excellent viewing opportunity - you can take your photographs with ease and with 360 degree viewing potential.

  3. Comfort - it is a comfortable ride! You can leave your seat and move about the boat if you desire when the boat is stationary and we are viewing wildlife. We also have an on-board toilet.

  4. An awe-inspiring experience being close to the water, creating the feeling that we are at one with nature.

  5. Friendly and informative captains who will share their knowledge and passion for this unique and stunning area.

  6. The very best experience that our staff, boat and tour can offer.


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