WILDLY AUTHENTIC
Orca Spirit Adventures delivers unforgettable experiences across travel, tourism, entertainment, energy, and beyond. With more boats, capacity, and departure options than any other organization in the region, Orca Spirit is the whale watching and private charter provider of choice for tourists, school groups, tour operators, and commercial organizations alike.
OUR STORY
More than 30 years ago, John Douglas started the first covered vessel whale watching company in Victoria and has since set the industry standard for eco-tourism in the region. Focused on environmental stewardship, engagement with Indigenous nations and communities, and wildlife education, Orca Spirit has never lost sight of their responsibility to the natural habitat as their crew, fleet and services expanded.
Today, Orca Spirit Adventures is a leading provider of whale watching and private charters for guests of all kinds, from individuals to large groups.
MISSION & CORE VALUES
Our goal is to offer guests wildly authentic whale and wildlife experiences, while preserving and protecting the spectacular natural environment we are fortunate to do business in.
PROVIDING EXHILARATING & MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES
We’ve been creating extraordinary whale watching and marine wildlife experiences for guests from around the world for over 20 years.
SHOWCASING THE WILD & MAJESTIC SALISH SEA
We love showing off the Salish Sea – one of the most biologically rich inland waterways with over 3,400 species of mammals, birds, fish and invertebrate.
LEADERS IN CONSERVATION & RESPONSIBLE TOURISM
We’ve been protecting our natural surroundings and improving the social and economic well being of local communities for over 20 years.
SAFETY & EXCEPTIONAL CUSTOMER SERVICE
Nothing is as important to us as the health and safety of our passengers and crew – a standard of excellence validated by our perfect safety record.
MARINE NATURALISTS
Every Orca Spirit tour is led by a certified Marine Naturalist with a completed or in-progress degree in biology or marine biology. Not only are they experts on marine ecology, local wildlife, naturalist interpretation techniques and regional landmarks, our Naturalists also trained in marine emergency duties.
Their deep knowledge of the sea and its inhabitants allows them to deliver informative, educational tours to guests of all ages and experience.
OUR TEAM — GET TO KNOW US
We believe that the small contributions of many can make a big impact.
That’s why we’re proud to put our financial resources and team support behind the many charitable, economic, and research & conservation organizations that work hard to protect and preserve our natural environment, and improve life for animals and society alike.
JOHN DOUGLAS
John began his career in the marine industry over 30 years ago. Now Director of Operations and vessel Captain, he holds a Master 500GT Near Coastal certification, Small Vessel Machinery Operator (SMVO), and has completed programs in Marine Emergency Duties STCW95 and Marine First Aid.
ERIC FENATO
With a strong background in tourism and marine operations, Eric Fenato brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for sustainable travel to his role as General Manager at Orca Spirit Adventures. Having spent years working on and around the water, he is dedicated to providing exceptional wildlife experiences while prioritizing environmental conservation and responsible tourism. Eric is committed to fostering strong partnerships and ensuring that Orca Spirit continues to lead the way in offering unforgettable, eco-conscious adventures on the West Coast.
JAKE HAWLEY
Jake moved from Kingston, ON to pursue his dream of Wildlife Photography, and joined Orca Spirit in 2021. Jake has learned everything he knows by being on the water with all the animals the Salish Sea has to offer. Being on a boat and interacting with guests is where he feels right in his element, and he prides himself on getting a laugh out of people.
BILL MOORE
Bill has been in the marine industry for over 15 years and joined the Orca Spirit crew in 2021, working as a vessel captain on the Catalina Adventures. He currently holds his 150 Ton certification.
JAKE DOUGLAS
Jake joined our front desk agent team this spring, and is passionate about ecotourism practices that help people engage and connect with our essential marine ecosystems. Originally from Peterborough, Ontario, he is finishing up his degree in Environmental Studies and Geography at the University of Victoria, and is looking to train as a divemaster in the coming years.
WALTER CADWALLADER & MABEL WILSON
Walter joined Orca Spirit Adventures in 2003 after many years in the commercial fishing industry. Mabel’s background includes multi-generation ownership of larger vessels. They tap into their extensive marine experience to bring exciting ideas and streamlined processes to the business.
OUR BOATS — VICTORIA'S BIGGEST FLEET
Our covered yachts and cruisers are fully equipped with a variety of comforts including heated cabins, padded interior seating, washrooms, kitchen and bar facilities, 360 degree and elevated viewing platforms, surround sound systems and video monitors. For the adventurous and young at heart, our zodiacs provide an exhilarating experience complete with sea spray!
CATALINA ADVENTURE
The Catalina Adventure is a high speed foil assist 80 foot catamaran specifically designed for marine wildlife viewing.
ORCA SPIRIT II
The Orca Spirit II passenger catamaran, measuring one hundred feet in length, offers the ultimate in luxury, stability and comfort.
PACIFIC EXPLORER I
A beautiful 70-passenger vessel with all the amenities, the Pacific Explorer’s superbly designed interior features full-length tinted windows, indoor nook style seating for 50, plus kitchen and bar service areas.
HAISLA EXPLORER
The Haisla Explorer is our smallest and most compact vessel at 34 passengers. This high speed, forty five foot boat features comfortable indoor seating and large outside viewing decks for excellent marine wildlife viewing. Snacks and drinks served onboard.
ZODIACS
Orca Spirit operates Victoria’s largest fleet of boats, including 12 passenger zodiac style vessels–renowned for their durability, seaworthiness, stability and performance.
ORCA MIST
Orca Mist passenger vessel has an enclosed, heated cabin below and large, open air viewing deck with bench seats.
ACCESSIBILITY PLAN AT ORCA SPIRIT ADVENTURES
Our Accessibility Plan outlines the steps we’re taking to identify, remove, and prevent barriers across our workplace, vessels, services, and communications. Learn more about our commitments, ongoing improvements, and how to share feedback to help us create more inclusive experiences for everyone.