Come and experience the adventure of a lifetime.
BC Whale Watching Adventure Tours
The Prince Rupert area is home to some of the most spectacular whale watching in the world. Orcas (Killer whales), Minke whales and the mighty Humpback whales frequent the protected waters of Chatham Sound literally on the doorstop of Prince Rupert Harbour, where our whale watching tours are based.
Whale watching takes place throughout the summer season with the best viewing in late August and September.
Humpback Whales
Humpback Whales feed in this area preparing for their migration to the warm waters off Hawaii where they will give birth to their calves. Their spectacular bubble net feeding is truly a wonder to behold and this behaviour is often observed from the decks of the Thunder 1 during our whale watching adventure tours. Humpback whales can reach 58 feet in length and up to 45 tons in weight. A full grown Humpback whale launching himself airborne in a breach is a breathtaking event.
Orcas
Pods of Orcas (Killer Whales) also frequent the waters and both transient and resident pods have been observed. The northern resident Orcas number around 240 and their primary diet is fish. The transient Orcas appear in smaller numbers and are mammal eaters, capturing seals, dolphins and sea lions to sustain themselves. A whale watching encounter with a pod of Killer whales will provide an unforgettable experience.
Marine & Wildlife Viewing
Sharing the pacific waters with the whales are numerous water birds, magnificent bald eagles, sea lions, and seals. The rugged northern shore line is also home to black and grizzly bears as well as wolves.
From June 1st until the 15th of September, Thunder 1 Adventures is based out of the Port of Prince Rupert, in northwestern British Columbia. Whale watching, cruising, adventure tours and wildlife viewing trips of 3 days and longer are now available for booking. Please contact us for more information.
Fishing Charters
We also offer unique multi-day saltwater sport fishing charters (salmon fishing & halibut fishing) where you don't have to worry about getting on the water early each morning because you stay right on the boat! Combine whale watching and fishing for a truly unique west coast vacation.
Boat & Crew
Whale watching and adventure tour accommodations are aboard a classic 52' Wahl Trawler. The "Thunder 1" is a fine example of our west coast heritage and was recognized in the new publication "Legacy in Wood" by Ryan Wahl, a detailed portrait of master boat builder Ed Wahl and the important role his family business played in the creation of British Columbia's fishing industry.
She can accommodate up to six guests in two private staterooms. This boat was built from scratch as a pleasure boat; she is fully equipped with the latest in modern electronics and safety equipment along with all the comforts of home. Her wide decks and large windows provide a perfect platform for photography and whale watching. Please check out our Vessel Page for more information about this unique boat.
Your vessel and crew are Coast Guard Certified. Each year the Thunder 1 undergoes a rigorous safety inspection and she provides a safe, comfortable journey wherever our boating travels take us.
From the Guest Book
"We were promised an adventure tour and it sure was with many humpback sightings, seals, sealions, birds and our limit in halibut. What a great time with Doug and Deb our great hosts, nothing was too much trouble.
We saw orcas playing on the journey back to Prince Rupert, fantastic three days."
Sue, Edmonton, Alberta
"What a lovely trip from our first greeting to our final day of cruising, fishing, orca and whale watching. The menu was exceptional and served with ease and style. Everyone was catered to, and each person in the party would feel they had been personally catered for. Many thanks for a super trip, it was a holiday to remember with warmth and a multitude of memories."
Barb & Eleanor, Ottawa, Ontario
"Thank you Deb and Doug. It was great to see the Canadian Coastline, God's Pocket, birds, whales, fish and various kinds of weather. Everyday was different and had it's own special charm. The professional, friendly trip was all one could wish for from an Aussie new to this area. I’m glad the halibut finally jumped on my hook. Thank you for a great holiday."
Cheryl, South Australia
“Stunning entertainment and spectacular views. Truly a first class vacation.”
Dana C. Lloydminster, Alberta