Wildlife of British Columbia
12 DAYS FROM £1828
Perhaps, with the thrilling hummer climb up Whistler Mountain to marvel at fantastic views and enjoy a delicious barbeque at the top, for, it was during this, that we first encountered black bears, eight to be exact and one a rare cinnamon colour with two inquisitive cubs in tow. What an experience!
No less exciting were the offshore excursions where we spotted dozens of orcas, breaching, leaping, tail slapping and, on one occasion, surfacing right alongside us and on another, flying full pelt towards us to dive at the last moment beneath our zodiac. Humpbacks there were too, sky-hopping and lunge-feeding and a minke whale gliding quietly by in the shimmering orange ocean of sunset. White-sided pacific dolphins, harbour porpoise, seals, sea lions and sea otters all put in an appearance as did the imperious bald eagles.
And yet there was more. Dramatic scenery wherever we went, especially breathtaking from our float plane over the snowy mountains and placid lakes, the rivers and valleys; wild rabbits in the streets and goats on the roofs in Coombs; toasting marshmallows at a birthday bonfire on the beach in Tofino; magnificent Butchart Gardens; the delightful sunset dinner cruise in Vancouver; and being (fairly) up close and personal with rescued grizzly bears and timber wolves on Grouse Mountain.
Accommodation was a pleasure of an entirely different order. Particularly memorable were Painter's Lodge at Campbell River where a host of renowned celebrities had stayed before us and the Royal Scot Suite Hotel in Victoria, so impressive that one night was not nearly enough to appreciate it fully.
Add to all this, glorious weather, the friendly and generous nature of the Canadian people and a guide, Alma, whose professionalism, efficiency and sense of humour were second to none and you have a holiday that I would recommend to anyone and happily undertake again myself - as, indeed, one member of our group was actually doing.
Thanks Archers for making possible such an amazing adventure.
The tour was very well balanced and there was free time for you to do your own thing or a choice of excursions if you wanted to be more adventurous. If you love wildlife and Canada you will love this holiday and I would definitely recommend it.
The company's booking, etc, was impeccable and once on holiday the entire organisation was taken care of for us. This allowed the entire group to thoroughly enjoy the wide range of experiences that were on offer.
I do hope this holiday proves to be more popular in the future as it is well worth going on.
We really enjoyed the experience; it was much more than we expected. Our guide Serena was very informative, and what she did not know she would find out for us. Every place we stayed was a new adventure. Each of the hotels we stayed in were perfect. There was nothing for us to worry about. Brilliant holiday from start to finish.
Immerse yourself in British Columbia's wildlife wonderland on this truly breathtaking experience, amidst spectacular scenery and majestic creatures, both on land and water.
Holiday highlights
Vancouver City tour
Whistler Nature & wildlife walk with local guide
Campbell River
Telegraph Cove Whale watching cruise
Tofino Bear and whale watching tour
Victoria City tour
Your Price Includes
Flights: UK - Vancouver - UK
Accommodation on tour in twin room with private facilities
Professional tour director on tour and local representative's assistance at other times
Porterage at hotels during tour (for one suitcase per person)
Transfers between overseas airport and hotels
All local and airport taxes/service charges
Single share option no supplement to pay
Holiday Itinerary
DAY 1: UK - Vancouver.
Fly to Vancouver where you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 2: Vancouver (included sightseeing) - Whistler.
Considered Canada's most beautiful city, Vancouver enjoys a spectacular location between British Columbia's Burrard Inlet and stunning, snow-capped mountains. Today your adventure starts with a tour of this charming city's main attractions, taking in its beaches and harbour area, cobbled Gastown district, lively Chinatown and stunning Stanley Park. Afterwards, travel to Whistler where we visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre where you can see historical and contemporary exhibits, textiles, cedar carvings and artist demonstrations. This evening is yours to take some time to explore this stunning resort.
DAY 3: Whistler.
Named after the whistling sound of local marmots, Whistler sits above Lake Alta in British Columbia's pine-cloaked Blackcomb Mountains and is embraced by a lush natural wilderness. This morning, enjoy a guided nature walk to learn about the area's flora and fauna, with a chance to spot black-tailed deer, marmots, bald eagles and even black bears. The rest of the day and evening is yours to enjoy Whistler further, perhaps with a horseback ride, shopping or dining at one of its many international restaurants.
DAY 4: Whistler - Campbell River.
After sailing the Strait of Georgia past the picturesque Gulf Islands to Vancouver Island, we drive to Campbell River, the 'salmon capital of the world', and also the traditional territory of the Laichwiltach people of the First Nation - British Columbia's original inhabitants before the Europeans and Americans arrived.
DAY 5: Campbell River - Telegraph Cove - Campbell River. Included wildlife & whale safari.
This morning, head north to Telegraph Cove, a tiny sawmill community in a wild northern region, which is one of the world's premier Orca (killer whale) watching locations. Here, you'll board a specially equipped cruise boat for a thrilling trip into the seas around Vancouver Island to spot the Orcas that frequent this area. Keep your cameras poised for glimpses of these majestic beasts, as well as porpoise, dolphins and birds, while learning from trained naturalists on the boat. Listen out for the sounds made by the Orcas - your boat is equipped with underwater microphones to capture their vocalisations.
Note: Please note that although the success rate for viewing Orcas is 90%, sightings cannot be guaranteed.
DAY 6: Campbell River.
A whole day free to enjoy the scenery and pursuits of the breathtaking region around the Campbell River. There is the chance to rent a bike, play golf, journey to nearby Quadra Island or relax at the spa. For a truly unique experience don snorkel and fins to swim with the salmon returning up river to spawn (between Jul-Oct). This evening, round off your day by strolling along Campbell River's scenic waterfront and relax in one of its charming restaurants or pubs.
DAY 7: Campbell River - Tofino.
Today, drive to Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the westernmost point on Vancouver Island. On the way, stop for a stroll at the Cathedral Grove, an incredible wood of 800 year old Douglas firs towering 150-200 feet high into the sky. This afternoon is free to explore the shops and galleries of Tofino, a pretty fishing town on the entrance to Clayoquot Sound. Why not take a beachside stroll before enjoying a supper of local fresh salmon or Dungeness crab?
DAY 8: Tofino. Bear and whale watching tour.
Another highlight of your adventure awaits - an exciting bear and whale watching tour. Cruising Clayoquot Sound, you'll have the opportunity to observe Gray whales, sea lions, sea otters and seals together with a huge variety of birds, such as tufted puffins and bald eagles, all in one sensational setting. Your boat will also hug calm inlets and sheltered bays in search of the region's black bears, which frequently forage on the shores for their favourite delicacy, rock crabs. These superb animals can weigh up to 600 pounds and be over 5 feet tall.
Note: Please note that although the success rate for sightings is high, they cannot be guaranteed.
DAY 9: Tofino - Victoria. Included sightseeing.
Bid farewell to this untouched Pacific region and drive south to Victoria. Arriving in the 'City of Gardens', enjoy an intriguing tour of this beautiful city, taking in famous Bastion Square, and Thunderbird Park with its unique displays of totem poles. The evening is at leisure for you to explore the city.
DAY 10: Victoria - Vancouver.
This morning return to Vancouver, where you'll have the rest of the day to reacquaint yourself with this incredible city. Tonight, why not end your wildlife adventure on a high note? Join our optional sunset dinner cruise on an authentic paddle wheeler to enjoy a fabulous supper served up with glorious views of Vancouver Harbour.
DAY 11: Vancouver - UK.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.
DAY 12: Home landing in the UK.
Maximum elevation on this tour is 2,214 ft.
Check prices and availability for this holiday
Accommodation on Tour
Vancouver: Sandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver; Whistler: Crystal Lodge; Campbell River: Painter's Lodge; Tofino: Best Western Tin Wis; Victoria: Royal Scott Suite Hotel.
View Holiday Photos
View Deck PlansMS Zuiderdam (Alaska)
Renowned as Holland America Line's first Vista-Class vessel, MS Zuiderdam is a contemporary and luxurious ship, equipped with ultra-modern technology and an excellent array of amenities. Tastefully elegant and designed with Modernism in mind, the on board décor ranges from works by celebrated artists such as Andy Warhol, Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Ben, to the exquisite Waterford Crystal seahorse suspended over the three-tiered atrium. MS Zuiderdam accommodates 1,916 guests in comfortable, well-designed staterooms and affords the best in service, fine dining, and luxurious ocean cruising.
Public Rooms & Facilities
2 swimming pools; two-tiered Vista Dining Room; Lido buffet restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; Terrace Grill; Sea View, Ocean, Piano, Casino, Lido, Sports and wine-tasting bars; Crows' Nest, Neptune, Queen's and Explorer's lounges; Java, Windstar and internet cafés; Vista show lounge; volleyball and basketball courts; Greenhouse spa and salon with hydro pool and thermal suites; fitness centre and aerobics; observation deck; shops and boutiques; culinary arts centre; casino; library; atrium; photo gallery; lifts; reception.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues on board: the main Vista dining area has set dining or new 'dine as you wish' arrangements and a good selection of different menus. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings with three courses of fresh, cooked-to-order specialities, or guests may enjoy elegant, sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar, hot hors d'oeuvres during the pre-dinner hour and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Vegetarian or kosher meals and any special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.
Cabins
All cabins have twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; television; telephone. Outside cabins have a bath with shower, while inside cabins have a shower only. Your holiday price is based on a category K, J cabin or you may choose to upgrade.
Options/Upgrades
Cabin Categories & Descriptions:
K, J Inside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed
C, E, D Large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath & shower
VC Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath and shower; sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows.
Extras to budget for
A gratuity of $10 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.
Holiday Extensions
View Holiday PhotosWildlife of British Columbia + Alaska Cruise -
Immerse yourself in British Columbia's wildlife wonderland before witnessing awe-inspiring scenery on a cruise of the Inside Passage and on to Alaska. On day 11, remain at your Vancouver hotel for the next two nights. On day 13 transfer to your luxury cruising ship, the MS Zuiderdam, for the next seven nights before transferring to the airport on day 20 for your overnight flight home.
View Holiday PhotosWildlife of British Columbia + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £114
A chance to immerse yourself fully in the splendours of one of Canada's most spectacular cities. On day 11, remain at your Vancouver hotel, the Sandman Hotel Vancouver Downtown for the next two nights, before transferring to the airport on day 13 for your overnight flight home.
Accommodation on Extensions
Wildlife of British Columbia + Alaska Cruise -
Accommodation on Tour
Vancouver: Quality Hotel Downtown.
- View Holiday PhotosView Deck Plans
MS Zuiderdam (Alaska)
Renowned as Holland America Line's first Vista-Class vessel, MS Zuiderdam is a contemporary and luxurious ship, equipped with ultra-modern technology and an excellent array of amenities. Tastefully elegant and designed with Modernism in mind, the on board décor ranges from works by celebrated artists such as Andy Warhol, Frank Lloyd Wright and Charles Ben, to the exquisite Waterford Crystal seahorse suspended over the three-tiered atrium. MS Zuiderdam accommodates 1,916 guests in comfortable, well-designed staterooms and affords the best in service, fine dining, and luxurious ocean cruising.
Public Rooms & Facilities
2 swimming pools; two-tiered Vista Dining Room; Lido buffet restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; Terrace Grill; Sea View, Ocean, Piano, Casino, Lido, Sports and wine-tasting bars; Crows' Nest, Neptune, Queen's and Explorer's lounges; Java, Windstar and internet cafés; Vista show lounge; volleyball and basketball courts; Greenhouse spa and salon with hydro pool and thermal suites; fitness centre and aerobics; observation deck; shops and boutiques; culinary arts centre; casino; library; atrium; photo gallery; lifts; reception.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues on board: the main Vista dining area has set dining or new 'dine as you wish' arrangements and a good selection of different menus. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings with three courses of fresh, cooked-to-order specialities, or guests may enjoy elegant, sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar, hot hors d'oeuvres during the pre-dinner hour and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Vegetarian or kosher meals and any special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.
Cabins
All cabins have twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; television; telephone. Outside cabins have a bath with shower, while inside cabins have a shower only. Your holiday price is based on a category K, J cabin or you may choose to upgrade.
Options/Upgrades
Cabin Categories & Descriptions:
K, J Inside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed
C, E, D Large outside cabin with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath & shower
VC Verandah Suite with 2 lower beds convertible to 1 queen-size bed, bath and shower; sitting area; private verandah; floor-to-ceiling windows.
Extras to budget for
A gratuity of $10 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account. 
View Holiday PhotosView Deck PlansMS Volendam (Alaska)
Embodying Holland America's 'Signature of Excellence', MS Volendam is equipped with the most modern technologies and provides a good selection of amenities, facilities and entertainment. Decorated throughout with a garden motif, floral attributes can be found in abundance ranging from priceless paintings and sculpture, to sumptuous fabrics and bouquets of fresh flowers. Accommodating 1,432 passengers in bright, comfortable staterooms, MS Volendam also offers elegant public areas and fine dining - ideal for luxurious ocean cruising.
Public Rooms & Facilities
2 outdoor swimming pools (one with retractable roof); 3 restaurants; an extensive choice of lounges and bars; Explorations Café internet centre and library; Culinary Arts Centre; show lounge; spa and salon; shops; casino; fitness centre with aerobics area; basketball court; tennis court; video arcade; 12 lifts.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues onboard: the main Rotterdam Dining Room has a wide choice of different menus with most passengers opting for smart casual dress in the evenings. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings, or guests may enjoy sophisticated dining in the reservations-only 'Pinnacle Grill' (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.
Cabins
All staterooms have en suite facilities, twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed), TV, telephone, music system, air-conditioning, and 24-hour room service. Outside staterooms have a bath with shower, while inside cabins have a shower only. Your holiday price includes a category L inside cabin, or you may choose to upgrade.
Options/Upgrades
Cabin Categories & Descriptions:
L Standard inside stateroom with 2 lower beds
E, D Large outside stateroom with 2 lower beds, bath and/or shower
B Verandah suite with 2 lower beds; whirlpool bath; sitting area; private verandah; minibar; refrigerator; floor to ceiling windows.
Extras to budget for
Please note that a gratuity of $10 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.
View Holiday PhotosView Deck PlansMS Statendam (Alaska)
Themed around the subjects of Van Gogh's classic masterpieces, MS Statendam is truly a world-class ship providing modern, luxurious accommodation, state of the art technology and a wealth of excellent facilities and amenities. Beautifully decorated, MS Statendam is sleek, chic and elegant, while no expense has been spared to provide a comfortable environment with wide, spacious public areas and expansive ocean views. Accommodating 1,258 guests in light, comfortable and well-equipped staterooms, MS Statendam affords the best in entertainment, fine dining and luxurious ocean cruising.
Public Rooms & Facilities
Three swimming pools; two-tiered Rotterdam dining room; Lido restaurant; Pinnacle Grill; Terrace Grill; Lido, Dolphin and Ocean bars; Crow's Nest, Explorers and Neptune lounges; Explorations, Internet and Java cafés; Van Gogh show lounge; tennis and basketball courts; jogging track; Greenhouse spa and beauty salon; fitness centre and aerobics; Wajang theatre; observation deck; culinary arts centre; casino; video arcade; library; card room; figurehead, art and photo galleries; laundrette; lifts; reception.
Dining
Your cruise includes full board. There is a choice of dining venues on board: the main Rotterdam dining area has set dining for new 'dine as you wish' arrangements and a good selection of different menus. Casual dining is available in the Lido Restaurant most evenings with three courses of fresh, cooked-to-order specialties, or guests may enjoy elegant, sophisticated dining in the reservations-only Pinnacle Grill (additional cover charge per person applied to ship board account). Between meals there's the complimentary ice cream bar and after dinner there is the famous late night snack. Vegetarian or kosher meals and any special dietary requirements should be requested at the time of booking. Please note, we will automatically book early dining unless otherwise requested.
Cabins
All staterooms have twin or queen size beds (or one sofa bed and one Pullman bed); air-conditioning/climate control; television; telephone; shower and wc. Your holiday price is based on a category K inside cabin or you may choose to upgrade.
Options/Upgrades
Cabin Categories & Descriptions
K Inside stateroom with 2 lower beds
E D Large outside stateroom with 2 lower beds, bath & shower.
Tipping
A gratuity of $10 per person per day for dining and cabin services will be automatically added to your shipboard account on a daily basis. A 15% service charge will be automatically added to your bar charges and dining room wine account.
Wildlife of British Columbia + Vancouver - 2 Extra nights from £114
View Holiday PhotosSandman Hotel Downtown Vancouver
This hotel offers friendly service and an excellent location in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Location: Just minutes away from Robson Street, Pacific Centre Mall and the Yaletown district with its fashionable shops and bistros, as well as the cobblestone charm of historic Gastown.
Facilities: Indoor swimming pool; health club; whirlpool; restaurant; lounge; gift shop.
Price includes: Room with private facilities; TV; air-conditioning; tea/coffee-maker; telephone with voicemail.
View My Holiday Photos
NO HIDDEN EXTRAS: All prices shown include ALL compulsory charges (Fuel Supplement, Air Passenger Duty & Flight Supplement where applicable)
Book with confidence: We are members of ABTA and all our holidays are financially protected by the Civil Aviation Authority under the ATOL scheme.
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