Grizzly Bear Watching

In August of 1994, the Khutzeymateen Valley was designated Canada's only grizzly bear sanctuary under the joint management of the province of British Columbia and the Tsimshian Nation. Located 40 kilometres northeast of Prince Rupert on BC's northern coast, Khutzeymateen, a Tsimshian word meaning a confined space of salmon and bears, provides about 45 000 hectares of protected wilderness for the grizzly - a species at risk. With its dense rain forest, river mouth estuary and ocean fjord, the park sanctuary is able to provide refuge for about 50 grizzlies. The valley's rich wildlife population includes moose, wolves, migrating owls, grouse, shorebirds, geese, harlequin ducks, kingfishers, harbour seals, orca and humpback whales along the coast. The sanctuary has restricted access; however the Inlet outside of the Sanctuary is accessible and home to several bears, so viewing can be done in the Inlet. This cruise provides a safe and exciting way to view grizzly and black bears in their habitat without intruding on their natural activities. Bears are regularly seen but not guaranteed

Tour Overview:

The tour departs from Prince Rupert and we travel up the coastline north to the Khutzeymateen valley of the Grizzly Bears.
The group cruises past 2 First Nations villages, Metlakatla & Port Simpson at which point the guide will provide information about each community, their culture and history.
During the journey north there is generally an abundance of sea birds as well as eagles.
Porpoise have been known to play and jump through the wake of the vessel.
Resident humpbacks are often spotted, so we observe them at a safe distance
Once in the Khutzeymateen Inlet, our bear guide will provide information and interpretation of the bears, their habitat and activities.
After we enjoy viewing the bears we head back to Prince Rupert stopping along the way to view various wildlife
Best viewing period is Mid May to Early August
While we do enjoy a 95% success rate we cannot guarantee bear sighting. If no bears are observed, you are more than welcome to join our next bear tour at no cost to you, if your schedule/stay allows it.

Inclusions:	-6-7 hour guided boat cruise, including 2 hours of bear interpretation
	-Boxed lunch
	-Rain ponchos (in the event of inclement weather)
	-Use of umbrellas and use of binoculars while on the tour
Minimum:	10 People	Maximum:	30 People
Length:	6-7 hours
Departs:	8:30 am (subject to change depending on numbers or custom group tours)
Meeting Place:	Atlin Terminal, Seashore Charters Reservation Counter (15 min. prior to tour time)
Clothing:	Layer clothing to ensure warmth and comfort while out on deck. Recommend comfortable walking shoes
Difficulty Level:	Easy (not wheelchair accessible)

Reservations:

Individuals (FIT) Request reservations be made minimum 72 hours prior to desired tour departure, but we recognize that this is not always possible.

Groups: Chartered tours must be confirmed as early as possible due to limited availability.