Move over whale watching—kayaking with orcas is a more exclusive experience in Canada

Bloomberg narrates how the Canadian outfitter group Butterfield and Robinson has created an oceanic experience that can surpass the extremely popular whale-watching. To the moneyed travelers who can afford it, the group can bring them up close and personal with the killer whales or orcas in British Columbia.

The connection that can develop between humans and the cetacean might be short-lived but it can be intense. Unlike the boats that ferry humans to sail beside the whales, the kayak that these particular tourists are riding on are quite open and seemingly almost defenseless. Eye contact between orca and its curious visitor happens more than once. And unlike other orca lovers of previous generations that backpack into the area, the kayaking tourist also relishes the best amenities that Butterfield and Robinson can provide.

Kayaking among the orcas takes place in Nimmo Bay, British Columbia. The event has become so popular that tourists have to book one full year in advance. To get to Nimmo Bay, the first stop is Vancouver known for its sumptuous seafood cuisine. A triple pop plane then brings them to the unpretentious little town of Port Hardy. Tourists can then have a choice of taking the 30-minute trip to Nimmo Bay through boat, plane, or helicopter, depending on their budget. Once they reach the Bay, the fun begins.

Rich travelers kayak with the orcas in Canada. (Source)

Butterfield and Robinson makes their guests’ visit with the killer whales exclusive by limiting the group to about 4 people. This contrasts with the usual whale-watching tour group that has about an average of 20 people sailing beside these ocean inhabitants. This latter activity can appear like a party, while the small group of kayaking tourists is more like a family affair or membership in an elite club. 

While the whale watchers can just view the splendid creatures from a distance, the killer whales are almost close to the touch of a kayaking tourist. Of course, human pursuit of the orcas is forbidden in both activities. However, it is the orcas themselves who occasionally take interest in their human visitor and swim near him to the point of near-contact.

After the day’s event, the group can enjoy the comforts of a four-room luxury cabin that comes stocked with freshly baked cookies. A cascading waterfall nearby complements the view. A group can stay in the cabin for one week at the rate of $9,545 per person.