Highlights from the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition: 13 – 19 January 202513 January – Prey Sharing and Pod Play in Henry Canyon
Today’s Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition began at Henry Canyon, where Fanscar’s pod left signs of a fresh kill. An oil slick, feeding seabirds, and a female surfacing with a large chunk of meat—likely from a beaked whale—confirmed the event.
As a result, we witnessed rare prey sharing behaviour. Digby made multiple close passes by the bow, joined by Fanscar, Mia, Lucy, and Dundette, each tearing into the meal. Soon after, the scene turned playful. Dundette, Razor, Lil Blade, and Oreo from Cookie’s pod engaged in energetic spy-hops, tail slaps, and body rolls—a perfect finish to the day.
Learn more about orca prey sharing here.
15 January – Interactions with Splittip’s Pod
Golden sunlight and calm seas greeted us. Doppel from Lucky’s pod appeared first, followed by Val and Ocea. Shortly after, Splittip’s pod arrived. Three Stripes, Ripple, and Wonks showed strong interest in our vessel.
Meanwhile, Basil swam beneath the boat, and Mamang seemed to enjoy the camera attention. Kirra and Basil surfaced just a metre from the port side. A curious moment came when we retrieved a bottle covered in goose barnacles, sparking a mini marine biology lesson.
Finally, the day ended at Glasse Island, where sea lions lounged among birds—a beautiful scene for guests on the Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition.
16 January – Beaked Whale Chase and Spy-Hopping Nibbles
Pristine conditions gave us a perfect start. Digby, Razor, Mia, and Dundette, joined by Lucy Dash and Nibbles, made relaxed passes early in the day.
By mid-morning, five juvenile grey’s beaked whales surfaced nearby, pursued by the orca. The chase didn’t result in a kill, however, the energy remained electric. Nibbles performed a rare spy-hop, and the pod later rode our wake, making for a thrilling end.
Find out what to expect from your expedition with Naturaliste Charters.
17 January – Pilot Whales and Calf Antics
The morning began with our first pilot whale sighting of the season—around 50 individuals racing by. Soon after, Tatty’s pod appeared. Juveniles Marley and Missy’s new calf showed off playful fluke stands and rolls.
Later that day, we found Splittip’s pod again. Tarni, Ripple, and Adino were present. Marley and Miro’s calves were especially energetic, spy-hopping and nudging each other through the waves.
Once again, we passed Glasse Island, where we spotted endangered Australian sea lions resting between the rocks.
18 January – Beaked Whale Skull and Breaching Orca
A dramatic predation unfolded as orca surged towards an oil slick. Doppel emerged carrying a beaked whale skull. A shark followed, hoping to scavenge remains. Lucky’s pod—Vincent, Val, Keela, and Ron—was in full pursuit mode.
Soon after, Tatty’s pod surged alongside the boat. Their speed and coordination thrilled everyone aboard. The excitement continued with sightings of a sunfish, then tail slaps and three powerful breaches from Lucy Dash and Digby.
Curious about orca behaviour? Visit our FAQ page to learn more.
19 January – Pilot Whale Stand-Off and a Dolphin Farewell
Cookie’s pod—Oreo, Swirl, and Crumble—moved in formation through calm water. Then, their behaviour changed as they circled a disturbance: long-finned pilot whales had arrived. A standoff followed, with vocalisations and close passes.
Eventually, the orca disengaged and continued on. As we headed back to port, a pod of common dolphins escorted our boat in perfect synchrony. It was a joyful ending to a remarkable Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition week.
Every Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Expedition reveals something new—whether it is orca predation, social play, or surprising encounters with pilot whales and dolphins.
Check out our Augusta whale watching tours if you’re visiting later in the season.
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