While in Victoria for a day trip, check with one of the many charter companies to see of the local pods of killer whales are in the area. This is a MUST DO if they are.
The tour boats are large Zodiac-style inflatable boats that put you close to the water and can move quickly to where the whales are. We encountered about a dozen whales on a perfectly still morning. Several of the whales came within 10 yards of the boat. Forget about Shamu or Willie; seeing these creatures in the wild at close proximity is simply amazing. The thrill that went through my body the first time we heard them surface and blow was incredible. This tour is worth every penny.