Marine Wildlife

Marine Wildlife

Marine Wildlife Safety in Canada – Look, Learn, Respect

Canada’s coastal waters are home to some of the most spectacular marine animals on Earth—from orcas to sea lions. Whether you’re on a whale watching tour or spotting seals from shore, the best encounters are those that keep both you and the wildlife safe.

Canada’s Coastal Visitors

You don’t need to be on a boat to see marine life in Canada. On the West Coast, it’s common to spot:

  • Whales, including orcas and humpbacks
  • Seals, often resting on rocky outcrops
  • Sea lions, large and loud—and very territorial
  • Porpoises and dolphins, sometimes seen from ferries
  • Bald eagles and seabirds, feeding along shorelines

These are not zoo animals. They are wild, unpredictable, and best appreciated from a distance.

Family watching orcas from the shore on Saturna Island – respectful marine wildlife viewing in Canada with children safely observing whales from land

A family watches in quiet awe as a pod of orcas surfaces just offshore at Saturna Island. Moments like this are unforgettable—and perfectly safe when enjoyed from a respectful distance on land. / Tourism Victoria

Whale Watching – Give Giants Their Space

Whale watching is a highlight for many travelers to Canada. But these are powerful animals, and close approaches—especially by private boats or kayaks—can cause distress or danger.

If you’re out on the water:

  • Keep at least 100 metres away from whales (200 m for orcas)
  • Never approach from behind or cut across their path
  • Reduce speed and noise near marine mammals
  • Turn off echo sounders when stopped
  • Let them come to you—never chase

Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations protect these animals. Operators who violate distance rules can face significant fines.

Breaching humpback whale near Victoria seen from whale watching boat – highlights need for safe marine distances when observing wildlife in Canada

A humpback explodes from the water off Victoria, dwarfing a nearby boat. For the two onlookers, it’s the thrill of a lifetime—but also a reminder: these giants deserve space. Respecting distance isn’t just law—it’s safety. / Tourism Victoria

Watching Seals & Sea Lions – Don’t Get Too Close

Seals may look sleepy and slow, but they’re easily startled and can become aggressive if they feel cornered. Sea lions, especially during mating season, are loud, heavy, and not to be trifled with.

  • Stay at least 50 metres away, whether on land or water
  • Avoid beaches or rocks where animals are resting
  • Keep dogs leashed—pinnipeds see them as predators
  • Don’t feed, pet, or call to marine animals (yes, even seals)
Harbour seals with curious expressions near a marina in Victoria – reminder not to feed marine wildlife even if fish snacks are sold nearby

Three harbour seals gaze up from the water near a marina in Victoria—endearing, but habituated. Watch respectfully, and let wildlife stay wild. / Tourism Victoria

Shore-Based Viewing Tips

You can see marine life from ferries, harbours, walking trails, and coastal viewpoints. For safe and respectful wildlife watching:

  • Bring binoculars or a zoom lens
  • Stay quiet and avoid sudden movements
  • Observe posted signs about nesting birds or haul-out zones
  • Never block animals’ access to the water
Coyote safety sign in Stanley Park with step-by-step instructions – helps educate visitors on what to do if approached by a coyote in Vancouver parks

A sea lion colony basks on a rocky islet as the sun dips toward the horizon. From far away, it’s a peaceful sight. But up close, these powerful animals are loud, territorial, and best left undisturbed. A long lens and quiet respect go a long way. / Tourism Victoria

If You See Distressed Marine Wildlife

If you spot an injured, stranded, or entangled marine animal, do not approach or attempt to intervene.

Instead, contact:

  • The DFO Marine Mammal Incident Reporting Line: 1-800-465-4336
  • Or local Parks Canada or tour operators