Sea Lions in the Fraser River

Every year during April and May, when the Fraser River estuary is teaming with spawning eulachons, thousands of sea lions migrate into the area to feast on these herring-sized members of the Smelt family.

California Sea Lions (Zalophus californianus) come all the way from Mexico and the large Steller Sea Lions (Eumetopias jubatus) travel South from the Arctic.

Only male sea lions travel here. Females and calves stay behind. Because they have no rookeries to protect, they are playful and non-territorial.

Observe hundreds of sea lions on a short motorboat trip into the mouth of the Fraser River.

After the boat trip and before we return you to your hotel you have time to explore the shops and restaurants of Steveston, a historic fishing village on the Fraser River.

We pick-up from hotels, homes, bed & breakfasts anywhere in Vancouver and the Capilano RV Park (under the Lions Gate Bridge).