Orca Escort Behaviour Leads Us Through Bremer Canyon
Today’s expedition was guided by a calm and curious pod displaying classic orca escort behaviour. We first encountered the relaxed trio just off the shelf. They approached our vessel gently, passing close beneath the bow and gliding along both sides. Guests leaned over the rails, capturing moments as the orcas inspected them just as intently. In a stunning display, one orca rolled upside down at the surface, exposing its bright white underbelly and the underside of both pectoral fins. The group continued their slow and graceful movement, never rushed, simply leading us westward. This escort-style behaviour—where orcas guide vessels at their own pace—is a special experience. It offers prolonged observation of surfacing, body language, and breathing patterns. The pod surfaced every two minutes in a steady rhythm, leaving large whale footprints behind as we followed in awe. Their comfort and curiosity made for a serene and respectful wildlife encounter.
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Following the Pod: A Giant Sunfish Surprise
As we followed behind the trio’s trail through the canyon, their orca escort behaviour remained consistent and calm. We navigated along the 1000-metre depth contour, watching the orcas surface rhythmically and continue westward. After 15 minutes of gentle shadowing, the pod led us straight toward a sunfish! We slowed to take in this surprise sighting—an adult Mola mola, also known as the ocean sunfish. Although not fully grown, this individual was still a spectacle. Sunfish can grow up to 3.5 metres long and weigh 2.5 tonnes. They are the world’s heaviest bony fish and are often seen basking near the surface. Our passengers were amazed at its size and alien appearance. Seeing this creature so close and unexpectedly was a bonus highlight. Moments like these remind us how dynamic and diverse Bremer Canyon can be when you’re in the right place with the right guide—especially when the guide is an orca.
Learn more about Ocean Sunfish – Mola Mola from the Australian Museum
A Brief Sighting of a Deep Diver
While focused on the sunfish, we briefly lost visual contact with our pod. They had taken a dive and reappeared 200 metres away. As we repositioned to reconnect with them, a slanted blow off in the distance caught our attention. A sperm whale! We accelerated toward it in hopes of a closer view. Unfortunately, we arrived just as the whale lifted its fluke and descended into the deep. Sperm whales can spend 10 minutes at the surface, breathing every 10 seconds before disappearing for long dives. Despite missing its full surfacing behaviour, the brief encounter was a reminder of the remarkable marine life present in these waters. From orcas to sunfish to deep-diving giants, this region holds endless surprises. Even a single tail lift is enough to spark wonder—and for many guests onboard, seeing a sperm whale, even fleetingly, is a memory to treasure forever.
Playful Farewell and Final Encounters
After guiding us through the canyon and past multiple marine species, the pod’s energy shifted. The orcas approached our bow once more and began riding the pressure wave at the front of the vessel. This playful behaviour is common at the end of extended escort sessions. Then, in perfect timing for our return, they dropped back and followed in our wake. It was the final chance for passengers to get their best photographs—tail slaps, side rolls, and surface bursts were all on display. Orca escort behaviour like this is not something we can predict, but when it happens, it transforms a day on the water into something extraordinary. The relaxed pace, varied encounters, and respectful distance created a perfect balance between excitement and serenity. With full memory cards, full hearts, and the sun hanging low on the horizon, we turned back toward shore after another unforgettable day.
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Until Tomorrow
Bremer Canyon always finds new ways to surprise us. Today, it was a slow and steady journey led by some of the ocean’s most intelligent guides. From belly-up orcas to sunfish and sperm whales, each encounter added depth to the day’s story. That’s the magic of these waters—you never know what the next turn will bring.
Until tomorrow,
The Bremer Canyon Crew
