Ocean EcoVentures started running whale watching tours in 2003 and has been creating “Life Experiences” ever since! We have taken thousands of passengers out to experience our diverse marine ecosystem that we call home. There is always a highlight on each trip that you will take away and never forget.
We are a small owner-operated family business that strives to make your adventure the best possible. You don’t get this kind of personal attention from the larger whale watching companies. Having fewer passengers in our boat creates magical moments and many passengers leave like old friends after their tour.
Meet Our Family and Team
Simon Pidcock – Head Captain and Owner
Simon has spent his whole life on and around the ocean. He had his first boat at the age of four and grew up in a west coast wooden boat repair yard. Simon spent his younger years sailing, fishing and exploring the waters around Vancouver Island.
Simon has guided over 1200 whale watching adventures and is considered one of the best captains in the whale watching industry. His passion for the ocean and everything that inhabits it shows from the minute you meet him, he truly loves what he does. He has been the vice president(Vancouver Island) of the Pacific Whale Watch Association(PWWA) for the last 2 years and has just been nominates for the next term of two years. The Pacific Whale Watch Association (formerly Whale Watch Operator’s Association Northwest) consists of hard-working, dedicated whale watching companies committed to research, education, and responsible wildlife viewing. Member companies depart from 13 different ports in Washington State and British Columbia, Canada surrounding the San Juan Islands.
Simon is also an avid wildlife photographer and all the images you see on this website were taken by Simon on our whale watching adventures. He has the uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time to capture those unbelievable moments. On his tours he always make a point to set the boat up for those wanting to try their hand at capturing images on their tour.
You can be assured that Simon’s passion and enthusiasm will make your whale watching adventure unforgettable! His goal is to make sure that everyone on the tour has as much fun as he does while being educated about the diverse marie ecosystem called the Salish Sea.