Written By: Marisa Price, Lead Naturalist
Here at Orca Spirit Adventures, we offer two types of tours; Zodiac Vessel and Covered Vessel, and one of our most frequently asked questions is “Which one should I take?” When it comes to zodiac vs. covered vessels, each style of tour is a unique experience. Let’s take a look at the details to better help you plan your next trip!
When you choose to come out on a Covered Vessel, it’s a more luxurious experience. With one of Victoria’s most diverse Whale Watching Boat fleets, you may find yourself cruising along on our catamaran Catalina Adventure, or zipping up the coast on Haisla Explorer. No matter which vessel you find yourself experiencing the wild on, every Covered Vessel has certified marine naturalists to guide you through what you are seeing, landscapes, landmarks, and of course our charismatic megafauna. While on our Covered Vessels, you can keep your phone in your pocket and camera in its bag as on every trip there is a trained wildlife photographer taking photos of everything you see AND we will provide you with all the photos complimentary to download to use and share! We also offer complimentary hot drinks and have snacks for purchase on board to help you keep warm on the cooler days on the water. Don’t have time to browse our gift shop after your tour? Don’t fret, take a browse through our onboard gift shops and purchase your souvenirs while watching whales!
When you choose to come out on a Zodiac Vessel, you are choosing three hours of a thrill-seeking ride. Our twelve passenger zodiacs on average operate between 25 and 35 knots, skipping up and down the straits of the Salish Sea. When on a Zodiac tour you are getting the full brunt of the Pacific Northwest weather and sea. Since you are traveling at exhilarating speeds you can’t hear much over the wind, so sit back and enjoy the ride until you stop to marvel at one of the wonders of the Salish Sea. All Zodiac Skippers are also certified marine naturalists so you won’t miss out on the education! If you consider yourself more adventurous, this is the tour for you!
Although Zodiacs tend to operate at a higher speed, they do not see more; it’s the same wildlife on a different style of tour. Our captains stay in constant contact while on the water to ensure that all guests are getting the most out of their tour! Please note that we do not recommend Zodiacs for the elderly and expecting mothers due to the increased movement.
For more information on the Orca Spirit fleet, check out our guide on all of the zodiac and covered vessels we operate.
Now that you have all the facts to make your decision, book now so you too can #ExperienceTheWild!
