Dive into the mesmerizing world of the Salish Sea herring spawns with our thrilling tours! Every March, witness the spectacular ascent of herring as they flock to the shallow waters of the Comox Valley, transforming historical hotspots like Hornby Island and Denman Island into bustling spawning grounds. Prepare to be amazed as this natural phenomenon attracts a vibrant cast of marine characters, creating a dazzling display of underwater life.

Our four-hour tours offer a front-row seat to this awe-inspiring event, with an immersive exploration of the area’s rich history and the pivotal role of herring fishing. But that’s just the beginning – gear up for an exhilarating snorkeling adventure as we plunge beneath the surface to witness the hustle and bustle of marine life in their element.

After your underwater escapade, cozy up in our heated cabin for a scenic journey back to the marina. Then, treat yourself to a leisurely stroll through the charming Comox Valley, where local coffee shops beckon with steaming beverages and cozy ambiance, providing the perfect setting to reflect on the unforgettable sights you’ve encountered.

Join us for an adventure like no other, where every moment is a celebration of the extraordinary wonders of the Salish Sea herring spawns!

Herring spawn season:

Feb 25th – March 20th 

Schedule:

March 1st – March 20th 9am – 1 pm Daily 

Cost:

Adult (12 +)  $140/pp

Youth/Sr (12&under/ 65+) $120/pp

Dive into the vibrant heart of the Salish Sea, where an aquatic wonderland awaits! Springtime brings a symphony of life as majestic humpback whales steal the spotlight, gracing our waters from late spring to fall’s golden hues. And guess what? Some stick around, adding to the year-round magic of the Salish Sea, unless they’re off prepping for winter calf season!

But hold onto your hats because the Salish Sea’s star-studded show doesn’t end with humpbacks! Orcas, the ocean’s charismatic celebrities, make cameo appearances throughout the year. February to April, it’s the Biggs Orcas’ time to shine, drawn by the legendary herring spawn and the buzzing life it brings. With their sleek dorsal fins slicing through the waves, orcas are the A-listers of our area, feasting on the rich biodiversity of the Salish Sea.

At FunShip, we offer a wildlife tour like no other! Forget chasing tails – we’re all about crafting our adventure. Picture this: exploring landmarks, diving into history, and soaking up the breathtaking beauty of the Salish Sea. It’s a journey meant to be shared with your favorite crew, where every splash is more than a sighting – it’s a dance with the awe-inspiring marine life that calls this place home. Join us for an unforgettable voyage where every moment is a celebration of nature’s wonders, right here on Vancouver Island!”

Explore the wild beauty of Vancouver Island with FunShip’s exclusive mainland inlet and estuary tours. Departing from Comox Marina, our full-day excursions venture across the Salish Sea to stunning mainland inlets, boasting granite rock slabs soaring 6000 feet high in a breathtaking display of nature’s splendor. Glide deeper into this surreal landscape aboard our specialized 14-foot jet boat, delving into river valleys and mountains, home to dense populations of grizzly and black bears. Guided by current research from top bear scientists, our tours offer safe and respectful encounters, ensuring an unforgettable journey into the heart of bear country. Join us for a world-class adventure, where every moment promises awe, wonder, and a deep connection to the wild allure of Vancouver Island.

Mainland inlet and estuary tours:

Spring Estuary Tour Dates:

May 1st – June 1st 

Summer mainland inlet and river tours:

June 1st – Sept 31st 

Fall mainland inlet and river tours:

Sept 1st – October 31st 

Trip time: 

Depart 7:30 am

Return 5:30 pm

Cost:

 $4000

Ready to take the plunge into an adventure beyond the surface? If you’re a wildlife enthusiast looking for something wilder than what you can spot from a boat, it’s time to dive in! Explore the mind-blowing biodiversity thriving beneath the waves of the Salish Sea. From rocky shorelines and swaying seagrass beds to towering kelp forests, you’ll float weightless through vibrant marine ecosystems. Get up close with quirky invertebrates, witness herring balls on the brink of spawning, and watch seabirds pull off some seriously fresh catches. BC’s rich waters, bursting with life thanks to plankton blooms and massive spawning events, offer a buffet for migratory whales and birds, and year-round residents alike. Whether it’s your first underwater escapade or an annual must-do, let us guide you into this underwater wonderland!

Spring tour dates:

Feb 25 – Mar 20: Join us on our Herring Spawn tours, where you have the opportunity to watch the spawn event unfold above and below the waves. 

Year round snorkelling tours:

Add the snorkelling option to any existing Wildlife Tour, or book a custom Snorkelling trip!

During transit between Comox and your destination you might see:

• Killer Whales
• Humpback Whales
• Harbour Seals
• Steller and California sea lions
• Bald Eagles
• Dall’s and harbour porpoises
• Pacific white-sided dolphins
• A myriad of seabirds
• Grizzly and black bears
• And a lot more

If you want to get intimate with the natural surroundings of the Comox Valley you will not be disappointed.

• Warm clothes (layers are best)
• Rain Gear (weather depending)
• Swim gear, Wetsuit
• Lunch 
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Camera
• Binoculars

• Denman/Hornby Island loop 4 hour minimum
• Mainland Inlets Grizzly Bear 8 hour minimum
• Guests up to 8 plus Captain
• Optional local indigenous cultural experience (ask at time of booking)