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Canada will expand your world beyond your imagination – two top predators in one animal communication retreat experience. The world famous Blackfish Sound for orcas and the wilderness of the Great Bear Rainforest for grizzly bears.

  • Receive direct wisdom, energy and power from ancient mammals who have learned how to harness great strength alongside great gentleness and love.
  • Expand your consciousness through deep communications, internal journey, meditations and spontaneous animal-initiated healing to regain and remember your inherent wholeness.
  • Accelerate your own personal transformation through the guidance and energies of orcas and grizzly bears.

You will leave with a relaxed body, a calm mind, a heart bursting with love and a rejuvenated spirit. All accommodation, internal flights, tours, Kayak equipment, group support and most meals are included in your retreat price, all you really need to take care of is your flight and transfer to Vancouver city.

Kayak Whale Watching with Luxury Camping & Hot Showers

By midsummer Blackfish Sound is sea mammal central! At this time of year orcas sometimes gather into a ‘super pod’ – one of the greatest wildlife spectacles on earth. Paddling amongst the orcas and humpback whales is an unforgettable experience comparable to the great wildebeest migration of Tanzania.

The adventure begins with an awe inspiring boat ride through the wildlife rich waters of Johnstone Strait to our private camp. You have only to peek outside your tent for something to catch your eye – a soaring blue heron, a breaching whale, the fluke of a humpback.

A stunning private campsite on remote Swanson Island, we are blessed with exclusive rights to this little piece of heaven. The site overlooks Blackfish Sound which is renowned for its biodiversity including being home to many humpback and orca whales. This site offers extraordinary land-based whale watching, sunrises and sunsets, and diverse kayaking at the edge of the Broughton Archipelago.

The Broughton Archipelago is one of the finest locations to kayak anywhere on earth. Our location is a stunning private campsite on remote Swanson Island. We have exclusive rights to the pleasure of this little piece of heaven. You may be blessed to have an orca  swim beside you or even under your kayak. You may even experience humpback whales bubble-net feeding. When it comes to wildlife in this location everything is possible.

At A Glance

  • Best time of year to see orcas and humpbacks
  • Nice long days for sea kayaking
  • Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, seals and bald eagles – did I mention wildlife!
  • A network of trails to magical whale watching lookouts
  • A hot tub with an incredible view!

The island, located on the aptly named Blackfish Sound, is prime location for Orca and Humpback viewing. The kayaking was fun, and having the option to track Orca pods and Humpbacks from the boat allowed us to spend lots of time observing the animals. We were fortunate to observe Humpback bubble-netting and lunge feeding. This is a safari complete with a comfortable basecamp.

- Adam

A Wild Grizzly Bear Experience with Floating Lodge Comfort

Your bear experience begins with a spectacular seaplane journey from Port Hardy to the Great Bear Rainforest, one of the best places in the world to observe grizzly bears. Conservationists consider this area to be a rare jewel in today’s world, one of the few complete and relatively intact ecosystems remaining on the planet.

Tucked away in a stunning wilderness location your base Great Bear Lodge nestles against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks, forested hills and waterfalls. Enveloped in silence and tranquility, the only neighbours are the birds and mammals which inhabit the area. You’ll experience six excursions guided by a wildlife biologist and natural history educator, by boat down the shoreline or watching bears on foot just yards away as they fish for salmon.

We’ll have the privilege of being on the traditional lands of the Gwa’sala-‘Nakwaxda’xw Nation where the BBC filmed ‘Magical Forest’ of the ‘Secrets of our Living Planet‘ series. Our hosts are rated by National Geographic Adventure as one of the Best Adventure Companies on Earth.

At A Glance

  • No other lodges in the area so you’ll have the bears to yourselves
  • Bear viewing sessions by platform or boat
  • Floating lodge in stunning wilderness location, completely away from it all
  • Small intimate lodge with only 8 newly refurbished and cosy en-suite rooms
  • Wilderness gourmet meals await

"In the few short days of being here, I had captured some of the most special memories travelling so far."

- Nick Saxon, National Geographic Adventure

Welcome to Your Intimate Predator Retreat

Here is a little taste of what you could experience!

ORCAS

  • Receive Orca Medicine; move beyond perceptions of Orca preying on others and engage with their lessons of community, loyalty, longevity and the willingness to travel.
  • Orcas can teach you lessons in communication, leadership and team work.
  • Expand your consciousness by heart-led communications with the Guardian of the Ocean, named by Northwest Native nations. Orca is also a symbol of great good luck.

BEARS

  • Receive Bear Medicine; their hidden strength lies in their ability to travel between the physical and spiritual worlds.
  • Learn the importance of personal hibernation from one of the world’s experts and come to understand that bears access their inner world when they find a safe and womblike environment.
  • Bears can teach you how to travel into the dreamtime, where you can be rejuvenated by the source of all life.

GROWTH & TRANSFORMATION

  • Learn the biggest lesson of the Wilderness; In a world where we are known by our work or by the image we project, it’s so easy to live out of a false identity, our true identity is often found in the wilderness. 
  • Harness the power of intention by aligning yourself with your heart, mother earth, nature, power animals, the elements, to manifest your heart’s desires.
  • Open to your own innate communication super power and healing gifts so that you can heal animals and your own mind, body, spirit.

This sounds amazing already!

 

Sign me up!

Day 1 – Arrive Vancouver City (26 Aug)

Land in Vancouver International airport (YVR) and take the SkyTrain into the city alighting at the ‘Waterfront’ stop. Within a few minutes walk you’ll be at your hotel, where check-in is 3pm, enjoying the 25-metre indoor pool with panoramic view of Lion’s Gate Bridge or unwind after your flight in the sauna, steam room or whirlpool. Depending upon your arrival time and energy level, you’re invited to meet up for supper or a drink before a restful night’s sleep. If you’d rather do your own thing that’s ok too, there is plenty of time to get acquainted with fellow retreaters the following day.

Day 2 – Transfer to Vancouver Island & Telegraph Cove (27 Aug)

After a healthy breakfast we’ll take the SkyTrain to Vancouver’s Domestic airport to catch a Pacific Coastal plane to Port Hardy around 1pm. From here we’ll transfer down to Telegraph Cove and our rustic historic cabin.

Telegraph Cove is tucked away on the eastern coast of Northern Vancouver Island. This tiny and picturesque village is a major destination during the summer months when the snug little bay bustles with whale watchers, fishermen, boaters, campers and kayakers. Telegraph Cove Resort has a rich and colourful past and is one of the last boardwalk settlements left on Vancouver Island.

Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre which was created to provide information to the public for increased awareness of the biology, habitat needs and threats to killer whales, fin whales, humpback whales and sea otters as well as other local marine mammals, or if you prefer wander the waterfront for peace and quiet.

There will also be a brief group gathering and a whale honouring meditation, followed by a casual supper in a local eatery as we soak in the ambience and shift down a few gears into the wilderness zone.

Day 3 – Orca Kayak #1 (28 Aug)

Now your Orca safari begins

We’ll be met by our Orca Kayak hosts around 2pm. After a brief introduction we’ll gather our luggage and transfer on to our water taxi to begin the 45-minute journey through the wildlife rich waters of Johnstone Strait into Blackfish Sound to our private camp. Encountering whales, dolphins, porpoises, sea lions and other marine mammals is likely so be ready for communication with your camera handy.

On arrival at a stunning private campsite on remote Swanson Island we have exclusive use of this little piece of heaven. Beginning with a safety briefing and camp orientation, we’ll then discuss the next days adventures. After the camp orientation you’ll be shown to your tent where you can settle in to your new home. A tea or coffee can be enjoyed on your deck while taking in the beautiful surroundings of camp.

We will then have a kayak orientation and tandem paddle before dinner. The site overlooks Blackfish Sound, offering extraordinary land-based whale watching, sunrises and sunsets, and diverse kayaking at the edge of the Broughton Archipelago. Renowned for its biodiversity including being home to many humpback and orca whales, it is a gorgeous setting for paddlers to witness the congregation of up two hundred resident and transient pods of Orcas. Vancouver Island is where J-Pod makes their home. This generations-old family of Killer Whales has been making a resurgence in numbers recently.

After dinner, enjoy the sunset from the lounge or hot tub overlooking the ocean before retiring to rest for more exploration in the morning. Your first night under canvas may be accented with the intermittent sounds of humpbacks breathing and if very lucky the howls of a grey wolf.

I travelled around BC for five months and this place was the most special. The camp was built with love and you can feel it.

- Xavi Ramon, The chef from Catalonia

Day 4 – Orca Kayak #2 (29 Aug)

From our camp, we have the opportunity to look out into the open waters of the Sound and paddle among the small islands and narrow passages, an ideal combination for the wildlife enthusiast. Watch for passing orcas, white-sided dolphins and sea lions. Listen to the silence as you revel in the natural wonders of the pristine and raw landscapes that surrounds you. 

Today will be dictated by the location of wildlife, weather, and our group desires. This might be a good time to explore the countless islands by sea kayak or search out for some nearby whale activity on our whale watching boat.

Return after a day of adventure for dinner and gathering around the beach camp fire.

PARADISE IN NATURE = LOVE. The tranquil surroundings are divine and the sound of the whales blowing were continuous. What a treat!

- Deanna Knight

Day 5 – Orca Kayak #3 (30 Aug)

Another blissful day to kayak out to the orcas or take the boat to reach them further afield. Look out for Northern Resident killer whales, transient killer whales, humpback whales, fin whales and harbour porpoises. You could also kayak alongside Steller sea lions, sea otters and Pacific white-sided dolphins.

It’s also possible to visit ancient first nations village sites, or alternatively take some time to relax around camp.

YOU HAVE TO GO THERE! I had the chance to stay at this beautiful place and it was just incredible – so many wonderful things! I saw whales so close I could almost touch them.

- Lena

Day 6 – Orca Kayak #4 (31 Aug)

Another blissful day to kayak out to the orcas. Look out for Northern Resident killer whales, transient killer whales, humpback whales, fin whales and harbour porpoises. You could also kayak alongside Steller sea lions, sea otters and Pacific white-sided dolphins. It’s also possible to take some time to relax around camp.

Day 7 – Orca Kayak #5 & Wilderness Bears #1 (1 Sept)

This is our final experience on the water to say goodbye to our new whale friends. We may be blessed with a breaching humpback whale acknowledgment or an orca pod honouring. Afterwards we’ll return to Telegraph Cove by water taxi arriving around 1pm for lunch at the Killer Whale cafe. At 2pm we’ll transfer back up to Port Hardy for the next leg of our retreat. Here we’ll be met by our grizzly bear hosts for a seaplane flight to Great Bear Lodge.

Now Your Bear Adventure Begins

Flying to the lodge in the Great Bear Rainforest is a spectacular adventure in itself, travelling over the breathtaking scenery of the central coast and over the rich waters of Queen Charlotte Strait, the home of orca, grey and humpback whales. This coastal ecosystem revolves around the annual return of five species of Pacific salmon each autumn that provide a rich nutritional bounty, which allows for the immense trees and bears for which this coast is famous. This is an unforgettable way to start your wild bear experience in Canada.

Upon your arrival at the lodge, our hosts will be on the dock to welcome us to our wilderness retreat and to give a bear briefing. Settle into your private room at the lodge, before regrouping for your first wildlife viewing session. This is one of those places that is truly wild. You’re not allowed to just wander off on your own here, you must be with one of the staff who will keep you safe at all times.

Our hosts have a range of different viewing sites, and will choose one according to where the bears have been most active. Estuary sites are reached by boat, while river sites are reached by a wilderness track. The viewing blinds on the river have been constructed with the photographer in mind, and are optimal and comfortable places from which to communicate with the bears.

There is nothing quite like seeing your first grizzly emerge from the forest.

Returning to the lodge that evening, you will be treated to a wilderness-gourmet meal. Our biologist guide will present slides and videos, explaining the interaction of the grizzly bear with this unique ecology.

I have travelled all over the world but this lodge stands out and I will remember it for ever. Put it on your bucket list.

- G. Simpson

Day 8 – Wilderness Bears #2 (2 Sept)

In the morning, you will be on the trail of the grizzly bear again after some good coffee and breakfast. A typical viewing session lasts three hours.

After a morning of adventure, you will return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to relax. In the early afternoon we’ll go out on foot with our guide to enjoy an interpretive rainforest walk, examining bear signs and the general ecology of the area. In mid-afternoon you’ll venture out to see the bears again before relaxing in the lodge for dinner. On clear nights, the stars are amazing.

Our expectations were far exceeded, this is as much an emotional experience as well as a physical one. Being in the Great Bear Rainforest with the bears is something special that will stay in our memories for ever. Our highlight, was our "walk with a bear", moving downstream on the boat with the bear as he patrolled the waters edge looking for salmon, for a brief few minutes two worlds as one. Those few minutes will last a life time.

- Dreed, Malaysia

Day 9 – Wilderness Bears #3 (3 Sept)

Today is another wonderful opportunity to observe and communicate with grizzly bears on foot and open to the elements. Being in the wilderness on the same ground as them just across an expanse of river water is a breathtaking honour.

After a morning of magical moments, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to make notes in your journal, perhaps even practice your hibernation skills. In the early afternoon we’ll decide whether to go out on foot with our guide, have personal contemplation time, or take part in a group meditation. In mid-afternoon you’ll venture out to see the bears again before relaxing in the lodge for dinner and your last evening in this mesmerising part of the world.

We often had bears within 10 metres of our open deck or had them walking past the elevated hide. The scenery is incredible, remote and pristine - the experience is unforgettable - Great Bear Rainforest has our highest recommendation!

- Mark, Australia

Day 10 – Wilderness Bears #4, seaplane to Port Hardy (4 Sept)

After your parting session with the bears, lunch and an afternoon activity, you will be returned to Port Hardy by floatplane in the afternoon sometime between 4pm and 6pm.

We’ve been advised to allow an overnight in Port Hardy because it’s highly possible to miss the connecting domestic flight due to weather conditions. But who would want to race off anyway after such an amazing wilderness immersion. Enjoy one more night together in our First Nations hotel recounting amazing communications, touching moments and awe inspiring experiences.

Day 11 – Transfer to Vancouver Airport (5 Sept)

After enjoying a delicious buffet breakfast, we’ll take our memories and a 10.25am flight from Port Hardy arriving back at Vancouver domestic airport at approx. 11.32am. It will be hard to say goodbye to the new friends we’ve made but this is where this journey ends with big smiles and hugs before continuing on home with so much to share.

From here you can connect with your International flight or return into Vancouver city for a few more days exploring before you head home. Please allow 2 hours to transfer to the International airport.

Please note: This schedule is subject to flow and fluidity at any time due to weather and other factors beyond our control.

Important: There is no formal teaching on this retreat. Please make sure you attend an animal communication workshop or complete an online course beforehand in order to understand the necessary basics.

Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1: Vancouver City
  • Day 2: Telegraph Cove
  • Day 3: Orca Kayak, Broughton Archipelago
  • Day 4: Orca Kayak, Broughton Archipelago
  • Day 5: Orca Kayak, Broughton Archipelago
  • Day 6: Orca Kayak, Broughton Archipelago
  • Day 7: Orca Kayak and Wilderness Bears, Great Bear Rainforest
  • Day 8: Wilderness Bears, Great Bear Rainforest
  • Day 9: Wilderness Bears, Great Bear Rainforest
  • Day 10:Wilderness Bears, Great Bear Rainforest and Port Hardy
  • Day 11: Transfer to Vancouver Airport

I am ready to go!

1 Night at a Vancouver City Hotel

Your first night will be spent in a luxury hotel in Vancouver city. Cleanse away the air miles in the pool or indulge in a refreshing soak in your ensuite marble bathroom. There is convenient Internet access to touch base with family and friends, and pillow-topped beds with luxury bed linen for a good night’s rest. (pic. for reference purposes only.)

1 night at Telegraph Cove

Step back in time by lodging in one of the many historic cabins of Telegraph Cove on Vancouver Island. These unique cabins have often been referred to by historians and by the descendants of the families that lived here many years ago. The buildings have kept their original charm from the past with the old  “unimproved”  look on the exterior and updated decor in the interior.

4 nights Luxury Glamping on Swanson Island

Get back to nature with a genuine camping experience designed with your comfort in mind. Imagine beautiful, big white cozy tents set against the backdrop of towering fir trees and the blues and greens of the ocean lapping at your doorstep. The sounds of silence interrupted only by the occasional blow of passing whales or the songs of the birds as they wake with the sun.

Large, bright and spacious cotton canvas tents come complete with real beds, private outdoor toilets and sinks, and sweeping views of the forest and/or ocean. The camp also has multiple hand washing sinks, 2 hot water showers, a comfortable lounge and wood-fired hot tub both overlooking the ocean. Roll back the door flaps and you don’t even have to get out of bed to see whales passing by!

My tent was absolutely gorgeous. I will never forget the experience of lying in bed sipping my morning coffee and watching a pod of orcas pass by.

- Peggy Waibel, Coffee connoisseur and relaxation expert

Camp features

  • One of BC’s most beautiful shorelines
  • Intricate shoreline, rich intertidal world, and marine and land-based wildlife
  • A comfortable lounge with ocean view
  • A wood-fired hot tub and a view!
  • Wildlife. Did we mention wildlife?
  • Hundreds of nearby islands to explore
  • Electricity supplied by solar panels and a battery bank: everyone should be able to charge a camera battery or phone during the trip

Tent features

  • Large walk-in canvas wall style tents
  • Perched off the ground, spaced out throughout the forest
  • Watch wildlife right from your bed
  • No hairdryers

The beds

  • Real beds with 6-inch thick soya foam mattress
  • Two pillows (one thick and one thin)
  • Crisp white linens and warm duvet
  • Fleece blankets for those cooler nights
  • LED lighting
  • Hot water bottles are also available

Toilets, showers and hot tub

Private outdoor composting toilet with hand-washing station at each tent. Two outdoor hot showers. Glamping treat – beachfront wood-fired hot tub with spectacular view!

Mention should be made of the camp - the love and care that had gone into building it was clear. Sitting in our luxury tent, or lying on the double bed, watching humpbacks blowing in the bay and herons feeding was magical, doing the same while having a shower was the icing on the cake.

- Catherine & Duncan

3 nights at Great Bear Lodge with ensuite Hotel-esque rooms

The charming floating lodge has eight bedrooms and a comfortable common area for you to relax and listen to natural history presentations from the wildlife biologists. Completely upgraded in 2014, each bedroom now has an ensuite bathroom with a shower. Natural wood decks surround the lodge, which is a perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while watching otters or appreciating the beauty of the scenery.

Another reason we love Great Bear Lodge is because of their commitment to low-impact ecotourism with use of wind and solar power.

1 night at First Nations Kwa’lilas Hotel in Port Hardy

Kwa’lilas is a kwak’wala word used by Gwa’sala Nakwaxda’xw people meaning a place to sleep. A group of Elders chose this word in hopes that travellers and guests would find a peaceful rest after a day of exploration on the Northern Vancouver Island.

The Kwa’lilas Hotel was built by their very own k’awat’si construction company. The building makes extensive use of local cedar and the design is meant to resemble the traditional big house style with a smoke hole at the top of the building. Traditionally, when visitors see smoke coming from a big house, it means welcome.

I am SO ready for Canada!

Orca Camp

Food is important, fresh, hearty, and locally inspired. One of the perks that comes with our glamping basecamp is a well-established kitchen and dedicated chef. Enjoy locally caught, fresh garden veggies and so much more. Meals will be enjoyed under a covered but open-air dining area overlooking the ocean or on one of the many beaches. A glass of wine is complimentary at each dinner, but you are welcome to bring your favourite drink (beer, wine, etc.) to enjoy responsibly.

Great Bear Lodge

Wilderness-gourmet meals await you at the lodge on your return from the wilderness. The lodge uses the freshest possible local ingredients, and all organic food when it is available. If you’re not vegetarian, one of your meals at the lodge could be freshly caught salmon roasted on a cedar plank. The lodge are happy to cater for vegetarians, as well as all dietary restriction and preferences with sufficient advance notice. Meals are served family-style at the large dining table, wine and beer is also included.

What This Retreat Includes*

* Based on a booking for both Orcas and Bears

10 Nights Accommodation

  • 1 Night Vancouver City Waterfront Hotel
  • 1 Night Telegraph Cove Historic Cabin
  • 4 Nights Luxury Safari-Style Camping with hot showers
  • 3 Nights Floating Lodge Hotel-esque comfort and ensuite shower room
  • 1 Night First Nations Port Hardy Hotel

Tours

  • Orca kayaking tour and boat excursions
  • Kayak: both singles and doubles are available. The boats are made by Seaward Kayaks, Current Designs, Boreal Designs and Necky. The guides are all certified by the sea kayak guides Alliance of BC with wilderness first aid training.
  • Safety procedures
  • Paddle lessons
  • Interpretive discussion and welcome orientation for wildlife viewing
  • Grizzly bears viewing sessions, guided by a wildlife biologist
  • Presentation of slides and videos, explaining the interaction of the grizzly bear with the unique ecology
  • Private bus transfer to viewing locations
  • Interpretive walks into bear country or boat excursions with a nature guide

Travel

  • Pacific Coast flight from Vancouver Domestic Airport to Port Hardy
  • Private transfer from Port Hardy to Telegraph Cove
  • Private transfer from Telegraph Cove to Port Hardy
  • Seaplane from Port Hardy to the Great Bear Rainforest & Great Bear Lodge – 14kg luggage limit
  • Note: Your additional luggage will be stored at the Great Bear Lodge office in Port Hardy
  • Return seaplane from Great Bear Lodge to Port Hardy
  • Return Pacific Coast flight from Port Hardy to Vancouver Domestic Airport

Clothing

  • Orca Kayak: Life jacket
  • Wilderness Bears: Heavy rain gear for serious downpours, binoculars (for those who don’t bring their own) and a warm insulated coverall (think onesie), if needed, including jacket, trousers, hat and rubber boots.

Meals

  • Orca Kayak: Wilderness gourmet-meals & soft drinks
  • Wilderness Bears: Wilderness-gourmet meals including complimentary wine and beer
  • Note: You can take your own wine/beer to the Orca Kayak if you wish. One glass of wine is provided with the evening meal.

Electricity

  • Electricity is available at the Orca camp and Bear eco-lodge to recharge batteries, but not for hairdryers!

Toiletries

The Great Bear Lodge request you do not use perfumed toiletries, such as perfumes or colognes. The lodge provides shampoo, conditioner and body wash.

Conservation

With the grizzly bear hunt being closed for trophies and meat (30 November 2017), the ecotourism industry now has a responsibility to ensure that bear research and management are adequately funded, as the government and researchers will no longer be receiving revenue from bear hunting fees. This research and management will ensure viable grizzly bear populations into the future. The sustainability contributions are:

BC Provincial Bear Viewing License, $25 per person
Brown Bear Research Network contribution, $20 per person

Tips

Orca Kayak and Great Bear staff gratuities of $30 per day (ensuring that you don’t need to worry about tips while at the camp and lodge).

Canada Tax

Orca Kayak and Great Bear Tours are included.

What’s Not Included

  • Your return international flight from your hometown to Vancouver (YPT airport code)
  • Transfer from Vancouver International Airport to City & City to Domestic Airport (SkyTrain approx. $5 per journey)
  • Internal transfer from Vancouver Domestic to International airport (free internal transfer bus)
  • Meals: 2 x breakfasts, 2 x lunches, 3 x supper*
  • Additional food not included as mentioned
  • Any attractions or activities not specifically listed
  • Personal or medical cover abroad
  • Visa costs from your home if necessary: Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada, approx. $6/£4. Find out if you need a Visa/eTA here.
  • Medical expenses
  • Travel insurance or trip cancellation insurance prior to departure. Highly recommended.
  • Hospitalisation and evacuation from remote areas, and additional expenses arising from the delay or extension of a trip due to weather, political disputes, sickness, failure of transportation, or other causes beyond our control
  • Other non-included items would include souvenir shopping, incidentals, personal phone calls, additional spa services, laundry, bell-boys, and tips for your room maid (we recommend $1 – 2 CAD per day per person)
  • Spa treatments and spa tips
  • Taxis not otherwise listed
  • Snacks, toiletries and other incidentals
  • Any additional expenses if you come in early or leave later
  • Additional tips for the staff
  • Canada Tax where not included. This tax is added to most consumer products, restaurant, and bar bills.
  • You will be pleased to know that there is no internet service offered at the Orca Camp or Great Bear Lodge, so you will be able to completely disconnect during your trip and immerse yourself in nature.

* Vancouver City supper & breakfast, Telegraph Cove – breakfast, 2 x lunches & supper, Port Hardy supper.

I want to be part of this!

Location

The Orca camp is a stunning private campsite on remote Swanson Island. We have exclusive rights to the use of this little piece of heaven. The site overlooks Blackfish Sound, one of the most wildlife-rich marine ecosystems in the world, renowned for its biodiversity including being home to many humpback and orca whales. This site offers extraordinary land-based whale watching, sunrises and sunsets, and diverse kayaking at the edge of the Broughton Archipelago.

Sandwiched between the mainland mountains and Vancouver Island, tidal currents stir up the water column and create an environment rich with nutrients and oxygen. Abundant marine life of all shapes and sizes make their home here, from the smallest crustacean to the largest whales. From our camp, we have the opportunity to look out into the open waters of the Sound and paddle among the small islands and narrow passages, an ideal combination for the wildlife enthusiast.

The Great Bear Lodge is located in the Great Bear Rainforest. One of earth’s great wildlife areas, the Great Bear Rainforest still hosts healthy populations of all wildlife species present when Captain Vancouver sailed up the coast in 1793.

Though roughly the size of Ireland, it has a human population of less than 17,000 outside of the town of Prince Rupert, compared to 4.5 million in Ireland. Virtually roadless, it is a land of island archipelagoes and long fjords that reach back into the glacier-capped Coastal Mountain range. The Coastal Mountain range has isolated many wildlife populations from their same species in the rest of North America. As a result the Great Bear Rainforest is home to many subspecies and genetically unique populations like, for example, the Spirit Bear or the coastal grey wolves.

Great Bear Lodge is a founding member of the Commercial Bear Viewing Association of BC, which was formed to promote sustainable bear viewing on the coast.

I don't want to miss out. Sign me up!

Grizzly Bears only

There are four places for people to take part on the Bear part of the retreat, based on twin-share accommodation.

Your itinerary will be a little more self sufficient at the beginning. Pea will meet you at the domestic airport in Port Hardy on 26 August along with the rest of the group.

Thursday 31 August 2023

Arrive into Vancouver International airport, then transfer into the city to stay at your hotel. If you prefer, you could stay at an airport hotel (you must notify us at the time of booking). Arriving the night before means that in case of flight delays you’ll be able to make the domestic flight the next morning which is vital in order to rendezvous in Port Hardy.

Friday 1 Sept 2023

Transfer to the Vancouver Domestic airport for a flight arriving into Port Hardy no later than 2pm. Remain at this airport. You’ll be given an exact meet up location nearer the time.

At 3pm you’ll meet up with the rest of the retreat group and our Grizzly Bear hosts. You are now on the main itinerary and will receive all of the inclusions as listed from this point on.

From here we’ll take the Pacific Coastal seaplane over the Johnstone Strait to our remote wilderness camp and floating lodge. It is vital you are on this group flight. Latecomers can not be accommodated.

  • Transfers into the city and back to the airport are not included. The SkyTrain is about $6/one journey.
  • Your Vancouver city hotel and Port Hardy domestic flight are included.
  • You may need to transfer to a nearby meeting point for the seaplane flight (at your own cost) but we hope to avoid this. Our Wilderness Bears hosts only inform us of the exact rendezvous nearer the time.

I want to register for Bears (only)

FAQ’s

We’re getting the best of both worlds. We’ll be at the end of the largest gathering of orcas and at the beginning of the bear’s salmon season making these shy creatures easier to observe at the water’s edge. That’s why incorporating both these top predators into one retreat experience was a no-brainer! Especially when they are so close to one another in one of the most stunning and beautiful parts of the world.

There are resident orcas but the time we’re going is very good for large orcas numbers which increases our chances of breath-taking encounters. This is also a brilliant time to be close to Humpback Whales and there will be a lot of sea lions and seals. There are also around 25,000 Pacific white-sided dolphins who travel in groups to deeper waters throughout the year.

Bear wise, the salmon arrive in significant numbers in late August, with their run peaking in September and October. The salmon run also attracts a great number of bald eagles, gulls, ravens, and other fish eating birds. This is the best season for seeing cubs.

This is one of those once-in-a-life experiences.

No other animal communicator anywhere else in the world is offering an inclusive communication retreat where you can communicate with two of the world’s top predators; one of the ocean and one of the land.

Having the use of the boat means we are able to access a much larger area than we can by kayak. This means we can spend more time with whales and other wildlife. With a boat we can spend hours with them if we choose. Also, orcas, could be spending their time in Blackfish Sound, Weynton Pass, or on the Vancouver Island side or further away. Having a boat means we can expand our whale watching to all areas, not just the radius near our camp. It is also common that while kayaking the viewing of the orcas can be very distant. The late August time period is a very good time to be in the area as the quality and quantity of sighting can be very good. 

We usually do a trip after breakfast until lunch and another from lunch till dinner. We’ll probably want to get out in the boat at least once to be able to spend some more time with the whales.

Quite frankly, I felt they’re the best. After lots of research, contact with various companies, reviewing their passion for bears, the impact our visit could make on the bears, the ethics and ecotourism, not to mention safety, I felt this company was the best fit. I also wanted to find an experience with bears that you just can’t get anywhere else. This company ticked all the boxes and so many more.

  • It’s the only wildlife viewing opportunity in the river system providing a true wilderness experience.
  • All tours are guided by a wildlife biologist.
  • You can enjoy the adventure of a wilderness experience with a bit of pampering too: return to the lodge for hot showers, wilderness-gourmet meals and a cozy’s night’s sleep in a proper bed.
  • There’s a maximum group size of 16 people.
  • The spectacular intact ecosystem of the central coast of British Colombia is less than an hour flight from Port hardy.

Safety is paramount and our hosts have found the perfect way for us to view the bears without impacting on their natural behaviour. There are five viewing platforms built at the best fishing spots. You can be literally sitting across the river from a mother bear and her cubs as they hunt for salmon. Some platforms are covered to keep you dry during rain, while others are open so that you can feel immersed in the rainforest. They are accessed from the lodge by school bus along a wilderness track.

Our hosts declaration: ‘Guest safety is of utmost importance and our viewing program is organized using the protocols developed at McNeil River State Game Sanctuary on Alaska’s Kenai Peninsula. This management philosophy is consistent with our goal of safely viewing bears in a natural setting while eliminating or minimizing impact on them.’

Our primary focus for the retreat is communication and the honour of being with wild animals in their natural habitat. You may also wish to take home some memorable moments on film.

Each person has space on the bear viewing platforms to set up a tripod in front of them for photography. You’re advised to use a minimum 300mm in the 35mm format. Although, 500-600mm are better. If using digital cameras or video, zoom of 10X or greater will generally give you better photos. The typical viewing distance is 3-100 meters. Can you imagine being just 3 metres away from a Grizzly Bear?

Flash photography is not advisable as it disturbs the bears. Please ensure that you know how to turn off the flash on your camera.

It will depend on whether the numbers book so we can have an exclusive experience. However, the work is seasonal and the tour operators aim to fill all the spots. Life changing wild animal adventures in the wilderness don’t come cheap. A financial commitment will need to be made in order to enjoy this unique experience. If the places are not filled, the companies may decide to book a couple of tourists in the other spots.

There are 10 places on the Orca Kayak and 14 places on Wilderness Grizzly Bears. I imagine this retreat, being so deeply transformational, will sell out fast. They hope, like us, we can enjoy our very own exclusive retreat experience.

As of 2018, the British Columbia government banned all grizzly bear hunting in the province.

No, your international flight and Vancouver City transfers will be arranged separately by you. Other flights, transfers, all accommodation, access to the retreat and most of the meals are included in the price. Please refer to the Included tab for full details.

You are responsible for arranging appropriate travel insurance should your flights cancel or change. If you miss a domestic flight organised by us you will be responsible for the full cost of replacing the flight and any ongoing expenses in order to catch up with the tour. Missed tours and days will not be compensated and are at your own expense.

If flights provided by us are delayed or cancelled beyond our control and Pea is unavailable to reorganise, it will be your responsibility to rearrange with the airline and if deemed necessary finance a new flight. Where possible we will try to claim a refund or compensation as appropriate and then pass this directly on to you. If you have any issues with your international flights, please make us aware at [email protected]

You are responsible for arranging appropriate health insurance for this trip. It is also your responsibility to ensure that you obtain medical advice pertaining to your own personal situation, physical fitness and/or pre-existing medical condition(s).

Our tour hosts provide the best gourmet wilderness meals and have been asked to provide a vegetarian option at every meal. While they do their utmost to cater for a number of alternative dietary needs (upon request) it may be advisable to bring a few provisions with you in case the food available is limiting. When you confirm your spot on the retreat, there will be an option to enter any special dietary requirements on the booking form.

All meals will be provided on the Orca Kayak and Wilderness Bears part of the retreat. You will be responsible for most meals outside of this. Please look at the Included tab for details.

When you complete your application for your spot on the retreat, there will be an option to enter the details of the person you wish to room share. If however you missed that, you can email your name and the person’s name you are looking to share with to [email protected] and we will look into this for you.

You will need to bring a light rain jacket and also layers, layers, layers. When camping we advise you avoid cotton and go for microfibres which dry quickly. The Wilderness Bears tour provides heavy rain gear including trousers, boots and a hat, as well as a warm insulated suit, if needed. We will also provide a suggested pack list to you once your second payment secures your spot.

We believe an internet service will be available at most locations (subject to charge) except the Wilderness Bears. This is a wonderful opportunity to completely disconnect during your trip and immerse yourself in nature. If you or your relatives need to contact each other in case of an emergency there is a phone.

We’ll provide you with a suggested pre-retreat packing list to help you once you make your second payment securing your spot. There is no specialist equipment needed, this is provided by the Orca Kayka and Wilderness Bears hosts.

Orca Kayak

You will be taken through safety procedures and given a paddle lesson. You don’t need to know anything about kayaking before you come on this trip. Life jackets are available and there are double kayaks so you’ll be able to have a buddy paddling with you.

In the event of an injury our hosts are capable of evacuation to the Port McNeil hospital using their speed boat. They can get to the hospital in about 45 minutes. In the event of something more serious there is a coast guard facility within 15 minutes of our camp.

Regardless of where we are on the coast we will be limited on where we can go by weather, (mainly wind) and to a certain degree currents. Any kayak group in the area will only be able to see orcas when they pass by the location where they are paddling whether it be Weynton, Johnstone Strait, Blackfish Sound or Blackney Pass.

Wilderness Bears

We are going to be based in true wilderness and bear country. There is no wandering off and you must pay close attention to the wildlife biologist and guides who are experienced in keeping guests safe. Wild animals have their own agenda and daily business and they can be anywhere at anytime. A bear or wolf may just be travelling through a location at the exact same time you’re walking to a viewing platform. Guests are escorted and as long as you listen to what you’re being asked you’re safety will be taken care of by the lodge staff.

Remember, don't run if you see a bear - you'll be considered prey. Grizzly bears can run over 50km/h (much faster than Usain Bolt runs the 100m sprint). You can't out run them, so don't try.

- Tom, Wildlife biologist

Trip Leader

Join Pea Horsley for this 11 day / 10 night retreat of a lifetime. Pea is a celebrated animal communicator and author of Heart to Heart, Life Loss Love and Animal Communication Made Easy. Also a TEDx speaker, Pea leads spiritually conscious individuals on animal-focused retreats around the world. One of her greatest pleasures is witnessing how people’s lives transform through in-person, deep connections with wild animals in their natural habitat. A retreat with Pea is heart-opening, empowering, down to earth and fun. Pea is an experienced retreat leader available 24/7 who will ensure you have a magical holiday.

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Investment

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Here are the prices for this 2023 retreat.

  • £8,395* –  Bears and Orcas twin occupancy, New Participant (first retreat with Pea)
  • £8,175* –  Bears and Orcas twin occupancy, Repeat Retreater (have taken part in one of Pea’s retreats before)

*Twin Share Policy:

  • You will be matched with the same gender.
  • Male and female friends are able to opt for a twin share.
  • Please let us know if you are a couple or family members who wish to share together.

** Single Supplement Policy

£3,000 –  Single Occupancy Supplement

You will need to pay the single occupancy supplement when there is no other person of the same gender to twin share with you.

Please note: This retreat is not ATOL protected, it is a condition of your booking that you take out adequate travel insurance.

Covid-19

Please note that if you test positive for COVID-19, you will be immediately isolated from the group and likely removed from the retreat. There will be no refunds after retreat departure and you will be responsible for the costs associated with being removed from the retreat and any additional expenses incurred as a result. Please contact your travel insurance provider in order to submit a claim for expenses incurred.

Worth every penny and more! The bear trip was pricey for our budget but worth the price and more. Simply the finest vacation experience ever. Loved every minute.

- Tavishboo via TripAdvisor

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“Adventure is a path. Real adventure – self-determined, self-motivated, often risky – forces you to have firsthand encounters with the world. The world the way it is, not the way you imagine it. Your body will collide with the earth and you will bear witness. In this way you will be compelled to grapple with the limitless kindness and bottomless cruelty of humankind – and perhaps realize that you yourself are capable of both. This will change you. Nothing will ever again be black-and-white.”

- Mark Jenkins

Orcas, Humpback Whales & Dolphins of the Johnstone Strait

Grizzly Bears, Black Bears and Wolves of the Great Bear Rainforest