Most meals included – (B,L,D) denotes Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Spirit Bear Viewing Disclaimer

Spirit Bears (also known as Kermode bears) are extremely rare and highly elusive. They are black bears expressing a unique genetic trait that results in white fur, and only a small number exist within a limited range of British Columbia’s central coast. Sightings vary significantly from season to season and cannot be guaranteed.

This expedition spends three days in prime Spirit Bear habitat, including two dedicated search days with local Gitga’at First Nation guides who live in and know this landscape intimately. While these efforts meaningfully increase our chances, wildlife encounters are always dependent on natural conditions beyond our control.

Regardless of whether a Spirit Bear is seen, this region offers extraordinary wildlife opportunities, including frequent encounters with grizzly bears, black bears, marine mammals, and a rich coastal ecosystem. Guests should view Spirit Bear sightings as a rare and exceptional possibility, not an expectation, and understand that the true value of this journey lies in experiencing one of the most pristine and wild ecosystems left on Earth.

Day 1: Arrival in Terrace
We'll arrive in Terrace the day before our expedition begins. Coastal weather can occasionally impact travel, and arriving early helps ensure a relaxed and timely start to the journey. Terrace is a friendly northern town with a blend of history, local art, Indigenous culture, and excellent dining options. There are no activities planned for today, so use this time to rest and prepare for the exciting journey ahead!

Day 2: From Terrace to the Great Bear Rainforest  (B,L,D)
After breakfast and orientation, we’ll transfer by shuttle to the marina in Kitimat. Once aboard our expedition vessel, we’ll get settled into our cabins, review safety procedures, and introduce life on board. Then we’ll set sail into the protected waterways of the Great Bear Rainforest, leaving roads and crowds behind. Each evening, we’ll anchor in a remote bay surrounded by wild coastal scenery. When conditions allow, we’ll enjoy kayaking or quiet shoreline exploration during calm mornings or evenings.

Days 3-4: Douglas Channel & Whale Country (B,L,D)
As we travel south through Douglas Channel, we’ll keep our eyes trained on the shoreline for black bears, coastal wolves, and other wildlife. Bald eagles, ravens, and a variety of seabirds are constant companions in this region. We’ll take advantage of low tides to explore remote beaches and intertidal zones rich with colorful sea stars and marine life. These waters are prime habitat for humpback whales, and we’ll slow down whenever we encounter blows, breaches, or surface activity. With luck, we may also see orca, porpoises, fin whales, or Steller sea lions along the way.

Days 5-6: Spirit Bear Territory (B,L,D)
The next two days will be focused on Princess Royal Island, one of the best places on Earth to search for the rare Spirit Bear. Traveling with local Indigenous guides, we’ll visit salmon streams and bear travel corridors known for wildlife activity. With patience and quiet observation, we hope to see both black bears and the striking white Spirit Bear fishing in secluded forest creeks. Along the way, we’ll learn about the cultural importance of this landscape and its wildlife. For many guests, these two days become a once-in-a-lifetime highlight.

Days 7-8: Khutze Inlet & Fiordland Conservancy (B,L,D)
We continue deeper into the wilderness, watching shorelines for bears and coastal wolves as we approach Khutze Inlet. This rich estuary often offers excellent grizzly bear viewing, especially during the salmon run, along with abundant birdlife. From there, we’ll venture into Fiordland Conservancy, where sheer granite walls, waterfalls, and misty fjords create a dramatic backdrop for photography and exploration. We’ll explore remote estuaries where grizzlies are frequently drawn to spawning salmon, sometimes accompanied by cubs. If time and conditions allow, we may also visit the First Nations community of Klemtu for a glimpse into coastal culture and history.

Day 9: Bella Bella & Journey’s End (B)
As we approach Milbanke Sound, we’ll watch for sea otters resting in kelp beds, a hopeful sign of their growing presence along the central coast. By late morning, we’ll arrive in Bella Bella (Waglisla), home of the Heiltsuk First Nation. After disembarking, we’ll transfer by shuttle to Bella Bella Airport, which consistently schedules 3pm Pacific Coastal Airlines flights to Vancouver. Please note: Airport drop-off is included on the final day of this tour, but guests are responsible for booking their own flights from Bella Bella Airport (CBBC).