The Whale Guide

In operation for two decades out of Tofino BC, John is a home grown guide/outfitter with a vast lifelong knowledge of local waters and the wildlife thriving within them. His skill and experience give him the seemingly uncanny ability to know when and where whales will surface.

In fact, his whale knowledge is impressive enough to land a position working with the Department of Fisheries and the Strawberry Isle Research Society, as part of a select team that carries out whale rescue operations in Clayoquot Sound. To date, eight whales have been saved from certain death by freeing them from a deadly assortment of fishing gear and nets. This is a dangerous but necessary service that John performs with the same passion and pride he takes in showing people his “backyard,” in John’s own words. In comfort and safety aboard the ocean going “Hootla-Kootla”, passengers will have the opportunity to witness all manner of sea-going mammals, from whales, seals and sea lions to land-based animals such as black bear cubs playing and foraging on the beaches. The breathtaking scenery and incredible photo opportunities are endless, as a visit to The Whale Centre website can demonstrate.

If you wish to increase the likelihood of observing wildlife in the natural surroundings of spectacular Clayoquot Sound it would be prudent to use a tried and true outfitter. John Forde is such an outfitter. John is friendly, easy to talk to, and more than willing to share his stories and the west coast experience with you. For twenty years, he and his team at The Whale Centre have navigated the competitive waters of the whale watching business and given hundreds of people from all over the world the opportunity of a lifetime to view these magnificent creatures in their own environment.

While in Tofino seeing the whales, you might also consider visiting Hot Springs Cove. This remote natural phenomenon can only be accessed by boat or seaplane. Just minutes from the wharf, down a cedar walkway, the hot springs are located right on the beach amidst the rocky outcroppings. Your day could be a soak in the springs, followed by an invigorating dip in the ocean, topped off with a rinse in a warm waterfall. Plus, this makes a great time to fill up on photos and memories. Sound fun?

All kinds of exciting adventures like these await you. John invites you to explore The Whale Centre online to see just how easily this online exploration can be turned into a real life adventure that you and your family will not soon forget.

Everything you need, or want, to know about planning your adventure is just a mouse click away at tofinowhalecentre.com.