Whales, Bears & Vancouver Island

Itinerary 2012

Day 1 – Vancouver

Arrive at Vancouver International Airport and make your own way to your downtown hotel. If you fancy exploring, don't miss Stanley Park and English Bay beach.

Accommodation - Best Western Vancouver Downtown

Day 2 – Vancouver to Victoria (70km)

Hop on board your B.C. Ferries cruise this morning, across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island, sailing past the rugged coastline and tranquil beaches of the Gulf Islands then heading down to Victoria the capital of British Columbia.

Accommodation - Executive House Hotel

Day 3 – Victoria

Begin your Vancouver Island stay with a whale watching trip in the Pacific, aboard a Zodiac powerboat. You might be lucky enough to see minke and orca. Spend your afternoon in the 55-acre Butchart Gardens, created over 100 years ago, before enjoying an evening in harbour-side Victoria.

Accommodation - Executive House Hotel

Day 4 – Victoria to Tofino (320km)

Drive across Vancouver Island to the Pacific Coast, through ancient rainforests and provincial parks. Don't forget to look out for wildlife

Accommodation - Schooner Motel

Day 5 – Tofino

Spend the day ­on a once-in-a-lifetime whale watching trip in Clayoqout Sound, keeping your eyes peeled for Pacific grey whale, sea lions and puffins.

Accommodation - Schooner Motel

Day 6 – Tofino to Campbell River (290km)

Head along the scenic winding road to Vancouver Island's east coast today, stopping at Horne Lake Caves or Cathedral Grove on the way. In MacMillan Provincial Park, Cathedral Grove's home to some of Canada's biggest Douglas-fir trees, many over 800 years old.

Accommodation - Heron's Landing Hotel

Day 7 – Campbell River to Knight Inlet

Experience an exciting 30-minute seaplane flight from Campbell River to Knight Inlet Lodge, a floating lodge at the mouth of Glendale River. This is the only and best way to see this nature-lovers' paradise. When you get there, head out on another unforgettable trip, bear watching. Lunch and dinner are included.

Accommodation - Knight Inlet Lodge

Day 8 – Knight Inlet to Vancouver (160km)

Return to Campbell River by seaplane this morning, before driving back through gorgeous scenery to the south of the island for your ferry to Vancouver.

Accommodation - Best Western Vancouver Downtown

Day 9 – Vancouver

Make the most of your last few hours in Vancouver, before heading back to the airport for your flight home.

Day 10 - Morning arrival at your chosen UK airport

times vary.