Beaked Whales and Orca Predations: A Chaotic DayBeaked Whales Stun on Arrival
Bremer Canyon was wild and windy—a classic recipe for orca activity. With swell and wind colliding from different directions, the surface resembled a washing machine. But the day’s first surprise wasn’t the orca. Just metres from the vessel, a rare pod of beaked whales emerged from the depths. Guests gasped as oil slicks swirled around the boat, prompting concern that the whales were in danger. However, the truth was even more astonishing: the slicks were from the beaked whales feeding on red arrow squid. Tentacles and remains floated past the boat, attracting a frenzy of seabirds that snatched scraps before they sank.
Orca and Beaked Whales Share the Stage
As we navigated closer to the action, a familiar pod appeared—El Notcho and their companions. A predation unfolded before our eyes, turning the surface green with blood. A successful hunt had taken place, possibly involving one of the beaked whales. Orca shared pieces of their prey, with some passing chunks to the younger members of the pod. Telltale signs of satisfaction followed: tail slaps, spy hops, and dramatic porpoising alongside our vessel.
Beaked Whales Highlight a Feeding Frenzy
The spectacle didn’t stop with one pod. Calls rang out from every corner—bow, stern, port and starboard—as another group of orcas closed in. Four powerful individuals showed off their latest conquest, gizzards trailing from their jaws and brushing the water as they cruised by the GoPro. These orcas gave us countless close encounters, swimming just beneath our feet and locking eyes with curious passengers.
Final Surprise: A Bull Whale Emerges
Just as we were preparing to leave the scene, excitement struck again. A bright white glow rose from the depths—far larger than the orca above it. As it neared the surface, the shape became clearer: a massive bull whale, ventral side up. Moments later, he rolled gracefully, revealing a towering dorsal fin that sliced the surface before he disappeared once again into the deep. The sight left everyone on board in awe.
Join a Killer Whale Expedition in Bremer Bay
Keen to witness the drama of the deep for yourself? Naturaliste Charters offers unforgettable Killer Whale Expeditions in Bremer Bay, where guests regularly encounter orcas, beaked whales, pilot whales, and a host of deep-sea predators. Tours run during the peak summer season, departing from the Bremer Bay Boat Harbour. Book your spot today and experience one of the world’s most exhilarating wildlife encounters: naturalistecharters.com.au/tours/bremer-canyon-killer-whale-tour
Today’s Bremer Canyon adventure was nothing short of remarkable. From rare beaked whales feeding at the surface to brutal orca predations and the graceful presence of a bull whale, the ocean gave us a front-row seat to nature’s most dramatic displays.
Images by Sharkyaerials and Aeroture_au
