Whale Watching in BC

Join the Mackay family, pioneers in killer whale watching in BC, for a cruise aboard the newest and most innovative certified passenger vessel on the British Columbia coast. The Naiad Explorer will whisk you from Port McNeill to a whale watching experience like no other. Our 4 hour tours are complete with information, history, future and more of the killer whale pods found in Johnstone Strait.

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24/Jun/09

Our whale watching season is due to kick off on June 27, and we're all hoping for the return of the northern resident killer whales any day now!

In the meantime, we are hosting a group of people from the Okanogan area, organized by Wells Grey Tours.  We had our first day on the water today and our objective was Cascade Falls in Knight Inlet.  On our way, we encountered a humpback whale in Blackfish Sound.  We picked up a couple of special guests from New Vancouver on Harbledown Island and continued on our way and as we made our way into Knight Inlet, we saw that the wind and tide had made a sea state that was unsuitable for our journey, so we opted for a calmer, safer route to see Glacier Falls.  On this route, we encountered a group of Pacific white-sided dolphins with quite a few new calves.  On our route back to Port McNeill, we encountered a Minke whale who breached twice not far behind the Naiad Explorer. 

Tomorrow, we're off to the west and Nakwakto Rapids!

Bill & Donna Mackay, Port McNeill, BC (Vancouver Island - Canada)

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The Naiad Explorer

The Naiad is like no other whale watching boat in BC. It's size and engines provide for fast smooth travel to the many locations where whale watching is its finest. With hydrophones for listening to whale song, and a stable platform for taking photos of whales, you'll be taking home memories for a lifetime.

Our certified crew is courteous and knowledgeable about the Johnstone Strait and Northern Vancouver Island regions including its marine and land environments. Watch for orcas, bears, birds, sea lions, porpoises and more.

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Daily Reports

Check out our daily whale watching reports straight from the boat to your computer. Our archive provides insight to the killer whales, dahls porpoises, humpback whales, minke whales, bears, sea birds, eagles, sea lions and more who are found on our travels in the Naiad Explorer in Johnstone Strait.

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Northern Vancouver Island

Port McNeill BC is a community of 3500 people nestled on the edge of Johnstone Strait. Referred to as the "Gateway to the Broughton Archipeligo, Port McNeill is a great place for your marine adventures. From Kayaking to salmon fishing to whale watching you'll find it all. Check out our local hiking caving and camping options on the many small lakes and backroads of Northern Vancouver Island.

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Staying in Port McNeill

Port McNeill has a selection of accommodation from Bed and Breakfasts to a brand new motel. Major grocery stores, and a selection of dining locations will keep your needs filled. Tour the many local Artists studios including Henschel Fine Arts, Just Art and more.

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