Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

A pristine wilderness home to rare and magical wildlife.

A rare spirit bear, a white-furred subspecies of the black bear, and a black bear cub standing on a moss-covered rocky shoreline in British Columbia's Great Bear Rainforest.

Overview

Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia Cruise Port

The Great Bear Rainforest, located on the central and north coast of British Columbia, Canada, is the largest intact coastal temperate rainforest on Earth. This vast, wild expanse covers approximately 6.4 million hectares and is characterized by towering old-growth trees (some over a thousand years old), glacier-cut fjords, mist-shrouded valleys, and a intricate network of rivers and inlets. It is a globally significant biodiversity hotspot, providing critical habitat for a rich array of wildlife, most notably the rare Kermode (Spirit) Bear, a unique white subspecies of the black bear. The region is also the traditional territory of several First Nations, whose cultures have been intertwined with the land and sea for millennia.

The Great Bear Rainforest is a remote wilderness area with limited road access. It is primarily visited by small expedition cruise ships, private boats, or floatplanes. Larger ocean liners do not typically visit the direct inlets of the Great Bear Rainforest, but some itineraries exploring British Columbia's Inside Passage or connecting Alaska to the Pacific Northwest may include segments that brush the edges or offer specific excursions into the region. These smaller expedition cruises often embark from ports like Ketchikan (Alaska) or Prince Rupert (BC), or even more localized hubs like Bella Bella or Port Hardy. A journey to the Great Bear Rainforest is an immersive, nature-focused experience, offering unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, cultural exchange, and exploration of a truly pristine ecosystem.

Top Things to Do in Great Bear Rainforest, British Columbia

Search for the Elusive Spirit Bear (Kermode Bear)

Embark on guided wildlife viewing excursions, often by Zodiac or small boat, with local Indigenous guides to areas known for Spirit Bear sightings, particularly on Princess Royal Island. This rare white bear is a unique genetic variant of the black bear and is found almost exclusively in this rainforest.

Tip: Patience is key. Guided tours with local experts significantly increase your chances of a sighting and ensure respectful viewing.

Observe Grizzly and Black Bears Fishing for Salmon

Witness the incredible spectacle of grizzly and black bears foraging and fishing for salmon in the region's abundant river estuaries, especially during the salmon run (late summer to fall). This is a vital part of the rainforest's ecosystem.

Tip: Bear viewing platforms or guided walks into bear habitat offer safe and excellent viewing opportunities. Always follow your guide's instructions.

Explore Ancient Old-Growth Forests

Take guided walks or hikes through the ancient old-growth forests, marveling at towering Sitka spruce and red cedars, some over 1,000 years old. Experience the unique flora, mosses, and the serene, mystical atmosphere of the temperate rainforest.

Tip: Wear waterproof and sturdy hiking shoes, as trails can be wet and uneven. Layers are essential due to variable weather.

Go Whale Watching and Marine Wildlife Spotting

Cruise the nutrient-rich coastal waters to spot a variety of marine mammals, including humpback whales, orcas, fin whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins, sea lions, and sea otters. The fjords and channels are prime feeding grounds.

Tip: Small expedition ships often have naturalists on board to identify species and provide insights into their behavior.

Experience Indigenous Cultural Exchange

Engage with the First Nations communities who have been stewards of this land for millennia. Some tours offer opportunities to visit traditional villages, learn about ancient art forms, hear ancestral stories, and understand their deep connection to the rainforest.

Tip: These cultural experiences are often an integral part of responsible tourism in the region, offering unique perspectives.

Kayak or Zodiac Through Remote Inlets and Fjords

Undertake kayaking or Zodiac excursions into the maze of winding channels, secluded coves, and deep fjords. This allows for an intimate, close-up experience of the dramatic coastal scenery, cascading waterfalls, and intertidal life.

Tip: Even if you are a novice, basic paddling skills are usually sufficient, as these excursions are often conducted in calm waters near the ship.

Overview