During the winter, local black bears are in semi-hibernation, but come May, they leave their dens and head for the closest food source – the ocean!

While the bears forage on the beaches next to the water, you can unobtrusively observe and photograph their behaviour from aboard an open-air Zodiac boat, which is especially good for manoeuvring in the small, sheltered bays.

Led by an expert guide, this is a truly wonderful wildlife experience, amongst the beautiful scenery of Vancouver Island’s Pacific coastline.

You can include this wildlife experience in a Canada self drive.