CHURCHILL

Swim with Beluga Whales

Thank two large, white animals for putting Churchill on the map. The most southerly population of polar bears in the winter, and in summer, the thousands of beluga whales that gather where the Churchill River pours into the Hudson Bay. Donning Arctic wetsuits, head into the bay on a Zodiac, hop on a floating mat tied to a Zodiac, and look for a particularly inviting group of whales. Fins, heads, humps and tails will be everywhere. With their doe eyes and flexible necks, belugas seem particularly friendly and curious. Surrounded by these graceful ghosts, welcome to one of the world’s great animal encounters.

Length of Trip : AquaGliding with beluga whales is a 3 hour excursion.

Cost :
Click here for the latest prices.

Best time to go : Up to 3,000 of Hudson Bay’s 25,000+ whales visit the Churchill area between mid-June to mid-August. AquaGliding is offered June, July and August.

Wheelchair friendly : No

Family friendly : Unfortunately there are no kids sizes available for Sea North’s Arctic wetsuits. Lazy Bear’s snorkel adventures is for 12 and up.

Where to eat :
Gypsy’s Bakery and Restaurant
The Tundra Inn

Official Site :
AquaGliding with Beluga Whales
Sea North Tours

Where to Stay : Here’s a handy list of where to stay in Churchill.

Getting There : There are two airlines that fly to Churchill: Calm Air and Kivalliq Air
If you have time on your hands, consider VIA’s train from Winnipeg to Churchill as well.

Note from Robin : The book features a chapter about snorkelling with beluga whales, which was an activity offered in the past. It was deemed a little too invasive for the whales, which is why AquaGliding came along, allowing you to get up close, but not too personal with the curious whales.

Interested in this Bucket List item? Here’s some suggested reading:

Great Canadian Trails