Epic Orca Watch Adventure in Bremer Canyon: Witnessing Extraordinary Ocean Wildlife
Our day started with an effortless discovery—a huge oil slick just off the shelf with two dorsal fins piercing through the water. At only 10:15, we had already found the orcas without even needing to search. This unmistakable sign of a recent kill set the stage for a remarkable expedition in Bremer Canyon.
Orca Watch Insights: Oil Slicks and Food Sharing Behavior
We immediately made our way over to investigate the source of the oil slick. Oil slicks on the water’s surface occur when fatty tissue is released following a kill, and they serve as a key indicator of nearby orcas. This natural phenomenon also suggests the potential presence of sharks lurking below. True to form, the oil slick attracted four sharks and over 50 birds—including commonly seen flesh-footed shearwaters and three species of albatross: Indian yellow-nosed, Wandering, and Black-browed.
As we approached the scene, our experienced crew prepared for an immersive orca watch experience. This was our first glimpse of what would turn into an unforgettable orca watch that day.
Observing Unique Orca Behavior and Food Sharing
On our approach, we rushed out on the bow just as the orcas began sharing their freshly captured meat. We observed larger individuals holding the meat while others edged closer to tear off strips. Notably, some orcas took deep dives, raising their tails above the water in a bid to snatch any dropped morsels. This food-sharing technique is a fascinating behavior observed in orcas worldwide. In Norway, for example, orcas have been seen purposely dropping seal carcasses for the pod, and here in the canyon, mothers have been noted dropping food for their calves. Such moments truly epitomise the spirit of an orca watch adventure.
Dynamic Moments and Iconic Marine Life
Shortly thereafter, the orcas surfaced slowly, gliding past the bow and offering our passengers a clear view of a large chunk of meat before diving beneath the boat. Nearby, two whaler sharks lingered off our port side, scavenging for any leftovers as they passed our underwater pole cam. Once their meal was finished, the orcas became noticeably more active—rolling playfully and weaving beneath our vessel. Our rear deck passengers scrambled from port to starboard to catch every moment of the action. Amidst the six orcas surrounding us, we even spotted the familiar dorsal fin of El Notcho, a regular on our Bremer Canyon voyages known for the notch in his dorsal fin.
Later, as the orcas surged forward, the energy onboard shifted dramatically. With everyone gathering near the sea door, we quickened our pace to follow their dynamic movement. Although we hurried behind to see if they were onto something, the orcas soon settled into a relaxed, synchronized glide—a perfect photo opportunity for our passengers and another highlight of an unforgettable orca watch.
Conclusion: A Front-Row Seat to Wild Marine Life
As the weather intensified, our captain called last drinks, and we made our way back to shore, our minds still buzzing from the day’s incredible events. This remarkable orca watch left us with a front-row seat to true, raw, and wild nature at its finest. The experiences we shared in Bremer Canyon continue to fuel our passion for the sea and its majestic creatures, leaving us eagerly anticipating our next adventure.
Until tomorrow with Naturaliste Charters!
