Visitor Information

    • Due to the fire of December 31, 2024 in Telegraph Cove,

    the Whale Interpretive Centre is operating at a reduced capacity

    summer 2025. 

    The Whale Shed


    Thanks to the generosity of Gordie and Marilyn Graham of Telegraph Cove Resorts, the WIC has set up an interim structure on a newly built section of the boardwalk. To find us, walk down the historic Telegraph Cove boardwalk until you come to a large white structure, affectionally named the Whale Shed.


    The Whale Shed will be open 7 days a week from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.


    Come see our newly articulated Risso’s dolphin and pygmy sperm whale skeletons, as well as the skulls and bones recently donated by Dr. Dave Duffus et al. Whale Interpretive Centre branded products will be available and donations to support our rebuilding efforts will be gratefully accepted in lieu of admission.


    Thank you for your patience and your support during this time. We hope to see you this summer at the Whale Shed!

    The Whale Interpretive Centre is located on the traditional and unceded Territories of the Kwakwa’la Speaking Peoples. 


    To learn more about the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw, please see the U'mista Cultural Centre, located in Alert Bay, BC.

    FAQ

    • Where is the WIC located?

      The Whale Interpretive Centre (WIC) is located in a renovated historical site (the "Old Freight Shed") in Telegraph Cove on Northern Vancouver Island. Telegraph Cove, British Columbia is a very picturesque, historical boardwalk community. 


      The WIC is approximately a 5-minute walk from Telegraph Cove Resorts office and General Store. Walk to the left of the office and down the historic Telegraph Cove boardwalk. The WIC is at the end of the boardwalk next to the Prince of Whales whale watching office.


      Due to the fire of December 31, 2024, the WIC is operating within an interim structure for the summer of 2025. The "Whale Shed" is located on a newly built piece of boardwalk. To find us, walk down the historic Telegraph Cove boardwalk and you will find us passed the old truck.

    • What are your opening hours?

      Due to the fire, the WIC is currently operating in a reduced capacity. The WIC is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm 7 days a week. 


      If you would like to contact us, staff are available to answer messages and calls between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm PDT.

    • Did anything survive the fire?

      Sadly, everything within the Whale Interpretive Centre was destroyed in the fire. 


      The WIC is still very hopeful for the future. Despite the devastating loss, a handful of items were off-site at the time of the fire. This includes three skeletons - a Dall's porpoise, a Risso's dolphin, and the only ever recorded pygmy sperm whale in BC.


      In addition, the WIC has been overwhelmed by the support of its community and has had several offers of other skeletons to replace what was lost. We are confident that when we officially open, we will once again have many informative and educational displays.

    • What is the WIC's anticipated re-opening date?

      At this time, we anticipate that the Whale Interpretive Centre building will be built by summer of 2026. This will be dependent on how construction continues. Crews have been working swiftly and everyone is eager to see the boardwalk and its buildings rebuilt as soon as possible. 


      In the meantime, the WIC will be operating in a reduced capacity to continue its mission of public education. 


      The WIC and the Board of Directors appreciate your patience as we navigate this rebuilding period.

    Additional Questions?

    Contact Us