Wild Encounters on the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Tour – 9.01.2022
The wind roared overnight, calming in the morning and setting the stage for an action-packed day on the Bremer Canyon killer whale tour. 🌊🐳
Our vessel, Alison-Maree, is purpose-built for the Southern Ocean, where storm swells can reach 12 metres! Today’s 2.5-metre swell made for an exciting start. By midday, the ocean calmed, and the sun shone brightly, allowing crystal-clear views of the orcas.
Above us, seabirds circled, while below, orcas scanned the depths, playing out the classic hotspot scenario.
Split Tip and her pod have been here every day since the season began. Today, they were actively hunting, though no prey surfaced! Their big hunt is yet to come.
Two young orcas, both around two years old, stole the show at lunchtime. They surfed the swell, porpoised out of the water, and playfully pushed each other. One calf had mottled skin—possibly from bacteria or sunburn. We sent images to orca experts for analysis.
This playful behavior is essential for young orcas. It helps them build strength, fitness, and social bonds with their pod. These moments make the Bremer Canyon killer whale tour truly special.
At Naturaliste Charters, we welcome marine biology interns each season to assist with data collection in Bremer Canyon. This week, we were joined by the enthusiastic Roz Kuliukas, who shared her incredible experience:
A Word From Our Marine Biologist Intern
“Hello (and goodbye) from Roz! After an unforgettable week, my marine biologist internship has ended. I’m beyond grateful for this experience!
Each day onboard the Bremer Canyon killer whale tour has been unique, packed with adventure and learning. Seeing El Notcho, Cookie, Oreo, and Split Tip frequently was amazing. By today, I could even name them on sight!
At the start of the week, I knew little about orcas, and now I’m completely obsessed. Every day felt like the best day EVER!
I’ve gained hands-on experience in data collection, ID photography, and observational research, which has been invaluable. More importantly, I’ve lived the dream job of a marine biologist on an eco-tourism boat.
A huge thank you to the Naturaliste Charters team for mentoring me and sharing this incredible marine environment. I hope to return soon—now it’s back to reality and finishing my final year of study!”
Best fishes,
Roz Kuliukas 🐟*
What an incredible start to the Bremer Canyon killer whale tour season! Every trip brings something new and unforgettable. 🚤💙
