Ocean Wise is hosting a series of land-based whale spotting events this July 14-17 at locations in Vancouver, Vancouver Island, and the Gulf Islands. These events are open to the public and completely free of charge.
The Ocean Wise Whale Blitz runs from July 14-17 to coincide with the anniversary of northern resident killer whale A73 “Springer” being re-released back to her pod after rehabilitation and World Orca Day on July 14. Whale Blitz locations take place at locations along The Whale Trail, a series of sites to view marine mammals from shore along the Pacific Coast.
Land-based whale spotting is an inclusive way to collect important information about the whales in our waters. Whale Blitz participants will have the chance to learn species ID skills, contribute to citizen science, and maybe even spot some marine mammals in their natural habitats!
In British Columbia, many cetacean (whale, dolphin, and porpoise) species are endangered or threatened. The Ocean Wise Whale Blitz events are a fun way to connect within communities while collecting important information on species distributions through the coastal waters of Southern B.C. By taking part and reporting whale sightings to the Ocean Wise WhaleReport app, citizens can help collect information that is vital for the protection and recovery of cetaceans while learning more about these wonderful species.
See the 2023 Whale Blitz locations and times below and register online at Ocean Wise Whale Blitz Tickets to be entered into a raffle.
2023 Whale Blitz Locations:
July 14 Sidney – Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, Sidney Waterfront, 1 - 3 p.m.
July 14 Campbell River – Discovery Passage Aquarium, Discovery Passage Pier, 3 - 7 p.m.
July 14 Quadra Island - Rebecca Spit Marine Provincial Park, Presented with the Cetus Research and Conservation Society, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
July 16 West Vancouver – Whytecliff Park, Presented with Parks Canada, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
July 16 Salt Spring Island – Ruckle Provincial Park, Presented with Ocean Networks Canada
11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
July 16 Sidney Island – Gulf Islands National Parks Reserve, day-use area on Sidney Island
11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
July 17 Campbell River – Discovery Passage Aquarium, Discovery Passage Pier
3 p.m. – 7 p.m.
July 17 Mayne Island – Georgina Point Heritage Site, Presented with the Cetus Research and Conservation society and Mayne Island Conservancy, 12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
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