Our Grizzly Tours

Knight Inlet Grizzly Tour - Expedition Details

The Grizzly Details

As one of the few operators accessing remote Knight Inlet, we offer an exclusive grizzly expedition into the heart of their coastal habitat. Our experienced skippers’ passion for this region and the well-being of these grizzlies fuels our mission. Your epic full-day journey begins below.

Season Breakdown

While there is no “best” time to visit as every season offers a unique viewing experience, the bear activity changes throughout the year:

Early Spring

(Emergence & Grazing)

As winter snow melts, famished Black and Grizzly bears emerge from hibernation dens. They head to estuaries to graze on nutrient-rich spring sedge grasses, which provide essential vegetable protein. When the tide permits, they also scour exposed beaches for crabs, mussels, and small eels. At this time, bears still sport their lighter-colored, matted winter coats.

Late Spring

(Mating Season)

May and June bring love to the air. This is a prime time to potentially see large, elusive males who are usually shy but reveal themselves to pursue females. Courtship rituals and the defense of love interests can turn bear viewing into a true spectator sport.

Late Summer & Fall

(Feeding Frenzy)

In late summer and early fall, the grizzly bears enter a state of excessive feeding, and gather in the estuary to feed on northern rice root. These carbohydrate-rich roots are highly nutritious and help bears build the fat reserves they need for hibernation. The main salmon spawning channels are farther inland, however it is possible to see the bears fishing in the shallows and mud flats. We’ll enjoy a unique experience and excellent viewing as we quietly move our skiffs into the narrow channels of the estuary.

Your Journey to Knight Inlet

The expedition starts promptly at 7:00am in Telegraph cove. You are served a light breakfast before boarding a comfortable, certified vessel. During the two-hour cruise through the scenic Broughton Archipelago and into Knight Inlet, you are guided by our qualified staff who will point out coastal wildlife en route.

Depart from Telegraph Cove

Begin your adventure as we set sail at 7:00 a.m., leaving Telegraph Cove behind and heading into the wild, scenic waterways of the Broughton Archipelago.

Morning Boat Ride & Breakfast

After savouring a light continental breakfast with coffee, tea and juice, enjoy a relaxed 2-hour cruise through pristine coastal waters. Light snacks are available throughout the tour.

Arrival at Knight Inlet

When conditions allow, there is opportunity to step off the main boat onto specially designed skiffs, perfectly crafted to bring you closer to the natural habitat of grizzly bears and other wildlife.

Bear Watching & Wildlife Viewing

Witness grizzly bears in their element as they forage along the estuaries and shorelines, capturing unforgettable moments in one of Canada’s most spectacular wilderness areas.

Scenic Exploration

Glide through the estuary, spotting eagles, seals, and other coastal wildlife along the way, as our expert guides share fascinating insights about the ecosystem.

Lunch Break

Relax and refuel with a buffet-style lunch served at a floating dock, surrounded by the stunning wilderness of Knight Inlet.

Return Journey

Board the main boat for the return trip, enjoying the serene scenery and any last wildlife sightings as we head back toward Telegraph Cove.

Arrival Back at Telegraph Cove

Conclude your full-day adventure around 3:30 p.m., filled with memories of grizzly encounters, breathtaking scenery, and a true taste of British Columbia’s wilderness.

Our Custom Bear Viewing Skiffs & Certified Guides

Our grizzly tours are completely boat based; we do not go ashore. Upon arrival to the prime viewing estuary, we transfer to our shallow-draft viewing skiffs. These specialized boats allow our guides to efficiently navigate the inner waters near the bears’ foraging areas without disturbing them. You are always securely viewing from the safety and comfort of the skiffs.

Elevated Viewing Platforms

These flat-bottom boats feature raised decks on the bow and a “crow’s nest” above for superior sight-lines.

Shallow Draft Hulls

This design allows our guides to raise the engine and pull the boat into shallow rivers and estuaries, getting you closer to the action without disturbing wildlife.

Our Guides

Our licensed captains are certified by the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC, with years of experience respectfully navigating this remote coast.

Proudly Recognized As a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner

We’re proud to be a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award Winner for 2025, placing Tide Rip Grizzly Tours in the top 10% of experiences worldwide based on authentic reviews from millions of travellers. This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering unforgettable, responsible grizzly bear viewing experiences on British Columbia’s wild coast, led by knowledgeable local guides who prioritize safety, conservation, and education. From stunning coastal landscapes to respectful wildlife encounters, every tour is designed to create meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime moments for our guests.

Grizzly Gallery

Grizzly Tours FAQs

Where do your grizzly bear tours depart from?

All Tide Rip Tours depart from our headquarters in historic Telegraph Cove, located on the northeastern coast of Northern Vancouver Island.

Why do we go to the Great Bear Rainforest for grizzly viewing?

We travel there because it is one of the most pristine ecosystems on Earth. Knight Inlet provides a unique, protected sanctuary where you can observe a high concentration of grizzly bears in their natural habitat.

Are the wildlife tours led by professional guides?

Yes. Every expedition is led by licensed Captains and professional guides certified by the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC to ensure ethical, safe, and educational encounters.