What to Wear Whale Watching in Victoria This Summer (2025 Guide)

July 30, 2025

Stay cozy, dry, and camera-ready on the Salish Sea

Every summer, we get asked the same question: What should I wear on a whale watching tour in Victoria?

And we get it. It’s mid-July, the sun is blazing, and the inner harbour feels downright tropical. But step aboard one of our boats and you’ll quickly feel the difference. Between ocean winds, cooler temps, and occasional West Coast fog (especially during Fog-ust), the Salish Sea can catch unprepared guests off guard.

Let’s make sure that’s not you. Whether you’re sailing with us on an open boat or our semi-covered catamaran, here’s what you need to wear and bring to enjoy your tour to the fullest.

First Things First: It’s Colder on the Water—Even in Summer

Victoria summers may be sunny, but offshore breezes and wind chill can drop the temperature significantly on the water. Our boats can travel up to 30 knots (55 km/h), and even light fog can feel damp when you’re not dressed properly.

That’s why we say: dress like you’re going skiing… just without the snow.

8 Things to Wear (or Bring) on Your Whale Watching Tour

1. Layers, Layers, Layers

Think thermal or moisture-wicking base layers, a warm fleece or sweater, and a jacket you can easily remove if needed. The key? Flexibility. You’ll warm up in the sun but cool down fast when the boat picks up speed.

Pro tip: Even if you think you “don’t get cold,” bring that extra sweater. You’ll thank us later.

2. Waterproof Outer Jacket

A windproof layer is good. A waterproof shell is even better. A breathable Gore-Tex jacket over your other layers keeps you dry from ocean spray or surprise rain, especially when you’re standing outside trying to catch that perfect whale shot.

Don’t have one? We provide lightweight windbreakers on our semi-covered vessels.

3. Long Pants (No Shorts!)

Leave the linen and leggings at home. Instead, opt for thick, wind-resistant pants like denim, hiking trousers, or waterproof shells. For our open boats, we also provide rain pants that go over your clothes to cut the wind chill.

4. Hats & Gloves

It may be summer, but your ears and fingers will feel that sea breeze! Bring a woolly hat or beanie and a pair of warm gloves. Avoid baseball caps unless you enjoy donating them to the Salish Sea—they tend to fly off quickly!

5. Closed-Toe Shoes

Skip the sandals. A solid pair of runners, hiking shoes or deck shoes with grip is ideal. Our boat decks can get wet and slippery, and your toes will thank you for the extra warmth and protection.

6. Sunglasses

Even on overcast days, UV rays reflect off the ocean. Pack sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes from glare and wind. (Bonus: you’ll look great in those whale selfies.)

7. Sunscreen

Yes, you still need it—even bundled up! Apply SPF on your face and neck before the tour, especially if you’ll be wearing a mask or buff. Nobody wants a mask tan.

Don’t Have All These Items? No Worries!

We’ve been doing this for a long time—and we’ve got you covered. We provide warm jackets, gloves, hats, and rain pants as needed, and we sanitise all gear between tours. Just let us know what you need before boarding.

Your Victoria Whale Watching Checklist ✅

Before you head down to Fisherman’s Wharf, run through this quick list:

Thermal base layer or sweater
Waterproof jacket
Long pants
Warm hat
Gloves
Closed-toe shoes
Sunglasses
Sunscreen
Water bottle

Ready to Spot Whales in Comfort?

A group of children in jackets and hats giving thumbs up

From humpbacks and killer whales to sea lions, bald eagles, and seals—the Salish Sea is teeming with wildlife in summer. The only thing better than seeing it? Enjoying every moment without shivering through it.