The Coastal Wildlife of B.C.: Marine Marvels and Majestic Grizzlies
Lead Scientist Cate Collins shares some of the magnificent coastal wildlife seen on our 1-Day Grizzly Bear Tours.
The northern British Columbia coastline is bursting with life. Upon arrival in Prince Rupert on our One-Day Grizzly Bear tours, we board a 72-foot catamaran and begin the 1.5-2 hour cruise to the stunning Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. This remote and pristine sanctuary offers a rare opportunity to witness majestic grizzlies in their natural habitat. However, the incredible coastal wildlife viewing and breathtaking scenery begin the moment we arrive at the port in Prince Rupert.
Guided by our expert naturalists, the journey to the Khutzeymateen offers not only unforgettable wildlife sightings but also the chance to learn about the region's diverse animal life.
These harbour seals are basking in the sun on the rugged coastline.
Wildlife at the Prince Rupert Port
Right off the docks, curious harbour seals can be seen sunbathing or swimming in the water. Sleepy otters and bellowing sea lions also make their presence known, while bald eagles soar through the sky or perch in the nearby trees. A variety of other waterfowl, shorebirds, and seabirds—including blue herons, kingfishers, and ravens—add to the rich array of wildlife in the area.
A bald eagle about to snatch a fish from the coastal waters.
Cruising through Chatham Sound
As we cruise up the B.C. coast through the beautiful Chatham Sound, we enter an important stop on the migratory route for several whale species. Orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales all frequent these waters. If we’re lucky, we may spot orcas breaching or humpback whales feeding. Whales inhabit this region year-round, with peak viewing starting at the end of July. We may also encounter Dall’s porpoises, the fastest whales in the area.
Orcas swimming through the calm waters of Chatham Sound.
Exploring the Khutzeymateen Valley
Upon reaching the Khutzeymateen Valley, we enter a breathtaking marine sanctuary where rugged peaks tower above a valley of wetlands. This area is prime grizzly bear viewing territory. In the spring, grizzlies emerge from their dens and head to the water’s edge to feed on sedge, a grass-like plant rich in protein, to regain strength after hibernation. During low tide, they forage for mussels and other marine life in the intertidal zone.
A grizzly mom and two-year-old triplets feeding on sedge.
Mid-June marks the peak of the grizzly mating season, offering a rare glimpse of courting behaviors during our expedition. Wolves also patrol the shorelines, although they tend to be more elusive than the grizzlies.
Join us on this remarkable journey to experience the extraordinary wildlife and stunning landscapes of the B.C. coast up close.
References
Prince Rupert Port Authority. Migratory birds. https://www.rupertport.com/migratory-birds/ (Accessed March 9, 2025)
BC Spaces for Nature. Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary. https://spacesfornature.org/greatspaces/khutzey.html (Accessed March 9, 2025)
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Dall's porpoise. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/species/dalls-porpoise. (Accessed March 9, 2025)
Visit Prince Rupert. Wildlife viewing & whale watching. https://visitprincerupert.com/experience/wildlife-viewing/ (Accessed March 9, 2025)
About Gold Star Canadian Tours
At Gold Star Canadian Tours, we focus on providing the worlds best travel experiences to authentically Canadian destinations. Our flagship tour is a convenient 1-day Polar Bear Expedition with dedicated non-stop charter flights from major airports directly to Churchill, Manitoba. With Gold Star Canadian Tours, the wonders of the Arctic are closer than ever. Your Adventure Awaits!
