BUCKET LIST: Eye-to-Eye with Giants: Whale Watching in Victoria, B.C.

"I've been guiding or working around whales now for almost over just about over a decade, and I still am in awe at all of the experiences that we have. It's just a wonder of a magnitude that people don't really get to experience anywhere else in urban life" – Nik Coutinho, Prince of WhalesIn this Bucket List episode, produced in our immersive documentary style, whale watching guide Nik Coutinho shares some of his favorite experiences with these ocean giants, from the awe-inspiring hunting behaviours of Orcas to what it feels like to look a Humpback in the eye. Nik’s taking us to the city of Victoria, Vancouver Island, B.C., on Canada’s west coast, one of  the most incredible marine environments in the world. From humpback whales to orcas, seals, and sea lions, the waters here are teeming with life. But what makes this place truly special is the chance to witness a variety of whales year round, up close, and with sightings almost guaranteed. Join us as we go eye-to-eye with giants in the deep waters of the Salish Sea.EPISODE HIGHLIGHTSConnect with GiantsFeel what it’s like to look a Humpback whale in the eye. Nik shares his deeply emotional stories of connecting with these magnificent creatures.Hunting Behavior of Killer WhalesWatch Killer Whales hunting beside your boat. Nik takes us through the dramatic and fascinating hunting techniques of these apex predators, and shares some of his favorite sightings over the years. The Humpback ComebackLearn about one of the most spectacular marine environments in the world. Humpback whales are now staying in Victoria’s waters year-round, and the return of these majestic creatures is nothing short of miraculous. Immersive SoundscapesExperience the breathtaking soundscapes of the ocean, from the thunderous blow of a whale’s exhale to the deafening slap of their tail during feeding time. It’s a world full of natural symphonies, brought to life in our immersive documentary style.Whale Watching in VictoriaDiscover what makes this one of the best whale-watching spots on the planet. From seeing humpback whales breach to catching a glimpse of orcas in their natural habitat, we give you the low down on everything you need to know to plan your next bucket list wildlife experience.HOW YOU CAN DO THIS TRIPVisit TourismVictoria.com for all the information you need to book your next bucket list trip  from whale watching and seaweed foraging to bike rides and some of the best seafood you’ll ever eat.Head over to PrinceOfWhales.com to book your adventure and follow them on Instagram @princeofwhaleswhalewatching for more amazing sightings.CONNECT WITH NICKTo dive deeper into Nik’s stories and the world of whales, check out the Prince of Whales Podcast, available wherever you get your shows.CONNECT WITH USInstagram: @armchairexplorerpodcastWebsite: armchair-explorer.comSUPPORT THE SHOWIf you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review the show. Your feedback helps others discover Armchair Explorer and allows us to keep bringing you incredible stories.CREDITSArmchair Explorer is produced by Armchair Productions. Aaron Millar is the writer and presenter, with audio editing and sound design by Charles Tyrie. Our theme music is by Sweet Chap. Mentioned in this episode:Check out all of our other travel podcasts from around the worldThis podcast is part of the Voyascape Network, a collection of some of the world’s best travel podcasts. Explore more at Voyascape.com. For advertising or sponsorship opportunities across the network, see the link below.Voyascape Podcast NetworkCheck out the Smart Travel PodcastThis week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel at the Link below:Smart Travel Podcast