FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

“You will experience complete immersion in the amazing environment
of northern Vancouver Island, off the west coast of British Columbia."

What gear do you supply me with?

• A brand new floater suit protects you from wind and water, and also provides you with flotation.
• A toque, also called a “beanie” by some, which is best described as a warm, brimless hat.
• Gloves are provided to keep your hands warm.
• Goggles or glasses to shield your eyes from UV rays, glare, or rain.

Why are you called Ocean Rose Coastal Adventures?

Ocean:  This is simple.  I operate a marine business, and love the ocean.

Rose: I am not named Rose, nor are they my favorite flower.  "Rose" is a reference to the Compass Rose, which is an aid to navigation found on all charts and maps.  It alludes to my love of navigation and exploration.

Coastal: This too, is simple.  I operate in Coastal Waters, and love the coast.

Adventures:  Every trip is an adventure!  We never know what we're going to see, where we're going to end up, and what will happen.  This is a professional marine operation, and we prepare for most every condition, and but we can't control wildlife or weather, and that is exciting!

Ocean Rose Coastal Adventures also has a cool acronym: O.R.C.A. The Orca are the main draw of my tourism business, and an amazing creature.

Will I get wet?

That depends.  Sometimes, when we are in transit and there are big waves, there is some salt spray.  All passengers are fully equipt for the weather and water conditions, and provided with dry bags if necessary.  Honestly, a little salt spray builds character and generally causes a lot laughs!  Rain, in general, does tend to get us wet, but again, we're geared for it.

• Sunscreen and chapstick;
• Sunglasses;
• Camera, extra batteries, extra film, and an additional memory card;
• Warm footwear.

A light meal is provided but you may wish to bring a snack. Please avoid packing surplus gear, as there is limited stowage space. Large backpacks are best left onshore. Dry bags are provided and may be requested before departure time.

How long are the tours?
Tour times vary. The group Killer Whale Nature Tour runs from 9:30am until 4:00pm on many days.  There also custom and private charters available, with variable start and end times.  Times also vary for twilight and sunrise charters and trips. Services may also be obtained at an hourly rate.  Please call to inquire or customize a tour.

How much is it?
This depends on the tour! Private charter and tour rates vary. Rates are also available by the hour for custom work.
For the Daily Killer Whale Tour, July to September, the rate is $150 a person. Children ages 7 to 14 are $100.   A group discount is available.
There may be a minimum passenger capacity for select tours.
There is a maximum of twelve passengers on board at any one time.
ORCA Ltd. Has NO hidden Charges!  What you see is what you get... there's no fuel surcharge!

What about restroom facilities?
We can make stops at nearby locations where I have access to washrooms.  I also do shore landings at many different locations, at the passengers request.  I believe those with urinary problems are better suited for a vessel with a washroom.  Generally, I have found the lack of a washroom not a problem. I joke, (kindly,) about people having evolved to need a washroom following them around at all times.  That is one service I don't provide at this time :) Nobody is subjected to any discomfort.   A general rule for everyone riding on a Zodiac is to avoid tea, coffee, and other diuretics in the morning before the tour.

Where do we go?
We spend the day anywhere between Port Hardy to the West, to Kelsey Bay, near Sayward, to the East. We will most likely be in Queen Charlotte Strait, Johnstone Strait or somewhere in between. The Zodiac’s fast speed and good range provide the most sightings possible, you can be assured if there are any whales in the area we will be the ones to see them!

What will we see?
We may, on any given day, see Resident and Transient Killer Whales, Pacific White Sided Dolphins, Humpback Whales, Stellar Sea Lions, Harbour or Dahl’s Porpoises, Minke Whales, Black Bears, Harbour Seals, Seabirds, Shorebirds and Birds of Prey. This is not to mention spectacular scenery. With Johnstone Strait at our doorstep, we find ourselves in the world’s most predictable place to see Killer Whales in the summer.

Do you provide food?
Water and a light lunch are provided. You may wish to bring along a small snack. I do recommend limiting fluid intake.

Is there a family rate?
YES! This depends on the number of people in your group; please contact me for more information.

Where do you service?
I can pick up passengers at the Government docks in Alert Bay, Sointula, and at Hidden Cove, Alder Bay, and any other requested location in the immediate area with a docking system.

If you have any unanswered questions about our tours, please click here to contact me.