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Travel bucket list idea:

Last updated: 23 June, 2023

During the summer, more than 60,000 beluga whales inhabit the Western Hudson Bay region – 3,000 of which can be found in the Churchill River estuary.

These unusual, striking all-white whales, growing up to 6.5m, are also known as ‘sea canaries’ for their prolific underwater singing in high-pitched squeaks and whistles. They’re curious creatures – and often come right up to boats.

It’s therefore an excellent spot for summer whale watching – on a 2-hour tour on either an inflatable zodiac or sea kayaks. Tours sometimes spot polar bears here too.

Price from: £75
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around
Duration: 3-4 hours

Getting there & doing it

Knowledgeable guides escort groups of up to 5 people on approximately 2-hour tours to seek out the pods.

There’s no minimum age for boat tours, but children must be 8 or over for sea kayaking.

When to do it

Tours run daily in July and August, but the times of the tour vary daily, are they always depart at low tide.

Round-ups that include this experience

humpback whale breaching on pacific ocean background with tourist boat behind

Ranging from the mere 2.5m dwarf sperm whale to the whopping 30m blue whale, these ocean giants beguile and amaze with their size, grace and dignity. Here’s our round-up some of the best places in the world to see them.