What to Wear & Bring for Tofino Whale Watching
What to wear and pack for whale watching in Tofino, BC — warm layers, a windproof shell, what the tour provides, and how to beat seasickness on the open Pacific.
The biggest mistake first-time visitors make is dressing for the Tofino town and not the Tofino ocean. The open Pacific is colder, windier, and wetter than the sheltered harbour you leave from, even on a sunny day — so the rule is simple: dress for the water, layer up, and let the boat provide the rest. Here’s exactly what to wear, what to bring, and what’s already taken care of. Planning the trip itself? See the best time to go and Zodiac vs covered boat.
What to Wear
Build your outfit in layers so you can adjust as the wind and spray change:
- Base layer. Merino wool or a quick-dry synthetic. Avoid cotton — it holds water and leaves you chilled.
- Mid layer. A fleece or light insulating jacket for warmth.
- Outer layer. A windproof, waterproof shell is the single most important item, even on a clear day.
- Bottoms. Long pants in a sturdy, wind-resistant fabric. Skip shorts, skirts, and thin leggings.
- Footwear. Closed-toe shoes with good grip — rubber boots or waterproof walking shoes are ideal on a wet, moving deck.
- Accessories. A warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses (useful even in fog and overcast — the glare off the water is real).
What the Tour Provides
You don’t need to buy specialist gear. Operators supply a certified Mustang-style survival/flotation suit for each guest — warm, dry, and safety-rated — which goes on over your own clothes. On an open Zodiac, this suit is mandatory (and part of why there’s a height minimum); on a covered cruiser you stay in the heated cabin and generally won’t need it. Many operators can also lend a dry bag for your camera or phone. So you’re really dressing for the layers underneath the suit, plus warmth for the covered-boat option.
What to Bring
- Camera or phone, ideally with a strap or in a dry bag — there’s spray, and you don’t want to drop it overboard
- Seasickness remedy if you’re prone to it (see below)
- Water and a light snack
- Sunscreen — the wind hides how much sun you’re getting
- A small towel in case of spray
- Any personal medication, in a waterproof pocket
Leave bulky bags behind; space on the boat is limited.
Beating Seasickness
The waters off Tofino can get choppy, especially on a fast open Zodiac. If you’re sensitive to motion:
- Take a motion-sickness medication about 30 minutes before departure, as directed on the label.
- Eat a light meal beforehand — going out on an empty stomach can make it worse, as can overeating.
- Natural aids like ginger candies, raw ginger, or peppermint help some people.
- If you’re particularly worried, choose a covered cabin cruiser — its larger, more stable hull rides far more smoothly than an open boat (see the boat comparison).
A Quick Pre-Departure Checklist
- Warm layers (no cotton base) + windproof/waterproof shell ✓
- Closed-toe, grippy, waterproof shoes ✓
- Hat, gloves, sunglasses ✓
- Camera in a strap or dry bag ✓
- Seasickness remedy taken 30 min ahead (if needed) ✓
- Sunscreen, water, snack ✓
Get this right and you’ll barely notice the cold — you’ll be too busy watching for spouts.
Ready to Book?
Bundle up and meet the whales on a small-group Tofino whale-watching tour — about 2.5 hours with an expert nature guide, warm gear provided, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure. Check availability.
See the Whales of Tofino — the Easy Way
Book a top-rated, small-group whale-watching tour from Tofino with an onboard nature guide who knows where the greys and humpbacks feed. Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.
Check Availability & Book