Over 100 sea otters were seen rafting in the spring of 2011 in the bay at Little Beach in Ucluelet. Sea Otters are protected under the Species at Risk Act and have not been seen in such large numbers in the area for most of this century! They were hunted for their coats and the last one was recorded shot in 1929. The population started to increase, very slowly, in the 1970s. Local wild life experts say they have only seen a handful of Sea Otters in the area in the last 20 years. Never before has a raft of this size been spotted.
Both male and female sea otters were identified. A local marine biologist said this was rare and means they are about to start a mating cycle. She predicts that in three years Sea Otters will be 'everywhere'. The Wild Pacific Trail is a great vantage point to watch these playful creatures. We are so happy to have them here once again!
The Ucluelet Aquarium
The Ucluelet Aquarium operates a seasonal public aquarium on the harbourfront in Ucluelet. Treat yourself to a very personal view of the fish and invertebrates from our local waters in Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds. All of the specimens at the aquarium are collected in local waters in the spring and returned to their natural habitats in the fall.
There are many opportunities to experience the breathtaking natural beauty and wildlife in the Ucluelet area. Local whale watching and wildlife tour operators are experts on the local wildlife. Not only will they guide you through the natural habitat of these majestic creatures, they will give you an interpretive tour of the regions natural and cultural history.
If you are lucky, you might see a humpback whale breach out of the water and land back on the surface with a huge spray! Or you might see a Gray whale splashing her tale as he dives in for another mouthful of baitfish. Watching these marine mammals is truly an experience you will remember for the rest of your life.
Listen to the barking of Stellar and California sea lions as they bask in the sunshine in Barkley Sound. Black bears, sea otters, harbour seals, eagles and other coastal birds can also be seen from most wild life tours.
Discovering Marine Mammals in Barkley Sound - Spring 2011
Treat yourself to an unforgettable west coast experience and enjoy the magical scenery and abundant wildlife of Barkley Sound in comfort! Join Al & Toddy Landry aboard their spacious 53 foot yacht for a personalized tour to view whales, bears, sea lions and other wildlife. More than just wildlife viewing, their interpretive tours include a scenic cruise though the sheltered waters of the Broken Group Islands and a gourmet meal while at anchor. Champagne Sunset Cruises and Private Charters also available.
Operating in the pristine coastal environments of both Tofino and Ucluelet, Jamie’s Whaling Station has been captivating adventure seekers from around the world since 1982! Our waters boast grey and humpback whales, transient orcas, sea otters at play, seals, porpoise, sea lions and every tour offers engaging commentary by our experienced and knowledgeable crew.
We also offer bear watching, tours to Hot Springs Cove, kayaking, scenic flights, hiking, sunset cruises and beach drop-offs. We have the largest fleet in the area, including large, comfortable 65’ cabin cruisers and high-speed 29’ zodiacs. Gift shops at both locations, lots of free parking, including Motorhome/RV parking, and complimentary dog kennels too! Guaranteed sightings!
Wildlife tours, whale watching, general water taxi services and kayak drop offs. Twelve passenger inside and outside viewing for a warm, comfortable excursion. Washroom equipped.
Subtidal Adventures has been offering quality wildlife tours in Ucluelet since 1978. Cruise in comfort on the Dixie IV cabin cruiser or have an adventure on the Discovery zodiac boat. Either way you could see Gray, Humpback, and occasionally Orca whales, as well as sea lions, seals, eagles, and curious sea otters! Tours of the breathtaking Broken Group Islands in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are available on all boat tours: "Island's, Whales, and Bears", "Gray Whale Adventure", and the seasonal sunset cruise and storm harbour tours. Come aboard with Subtidal Adventure and explore the living beauty on the west coast of Vancouver Island!
Travel through the Broken Group Islands in a deep sea cabin cruiser! You'll see bears, sea otters, sea lions, eagles, and whales while learning local history. Refreshments and washrooms available.
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