Bremer Canyon Killer Whale (Orca) Expedition

This is a must do trip if you love marine life. The catamaran is very stable and fast but it is highly recommenddd to take anti seasickness medication prior to boarding. We did two trips over a weekend. The first was very rough and stormy. Lots of people were ill. The crew could not have done more for them, including swapping sick bags frequently. There was a variety and plenty of good food for those that wanted it. The commentary and education was excelllent from the marine biologist. Once out in the canyon the weather was better and we saw pods of orcas and seals on the way back. Seeing the intelligent and natural behaviors was awe inspiring and amazing. On the second trip we saw lots of Orca calves being taught how to hunt and saw a predation on a Pygmy whale. The matriarch proudly brought the kill to show us. Incredible and stunning. Loved every minute. We also saw lots of sea birds including albatross and patrols, and seals. It is a long day but the crew looked after us well. Be prepared to get wet on the bow and take a good camera. There is a professional photographer who also took great pictures.

Absolutely amazing from start to finish. We picked this tour operator due to their commitment to research with marine biologists on board surveying the whales. The staff team on board were so polite and informative (and really kind to those who were suffering from sea sickness). There was a slide show playing on the indoor screens giving information about the geographical area and the orcas. There was a sense of excitement on board as we set off to the 'hot spot' for seeing the orcas in Bremer Canyon - would we find them today or not? Apparently there have only been 4 days this season when they have not found the orcas so that is a good hit rate. Along the way we saw a pod of Common Dolphins who rode the wake of the boat, a long-nosed fur seal who was waving at us with flipper (!), a juvenile garnet and huge albatross. Before too long a male orca called Nibbles showed up, followed closely a female from another pod. There was just our boat and one boat from another company and the whales. We were able to spend lots of time in close proximity to the whales, occasionally needing to speed off to a different area in search of more activity as the whales were in stealth mode looking for food. Later in the afternoon, they became more playful, swimming on their backs under the boat. So wonderful to witness. There was a photographer on board the ship who managed to get some super shots. These were emailed through to us the following day, along with a report by the marine biologist about the whales we had seen which was lovely. Please note - I strongly advise taking good sea sickness tablets before the trip. The waters were apparently "not that choppy" on our visit but at least 7 people were being sick at various points.

From the moment you step on board the welcome is fantastic. When we arrived at Bremer Canyon it was awesome to see the Orcas. The pod were herding around looking for food. They also were surrounding the boat at times which was an amazing experience. Food and drinks were great and constant throughout the day. Crossy and his crew made sure your day was fabulous. Photos by Jade and Todd completed the experience.

Great craft manufactured for this type of tour, plenty of viewing areas and levels. Unfortunately did not see orcas until 230pm but then the team came into action, spotters finding them the skipper getting closer and the crew directing us which way to look. A little expensive but with all refreshments supplied and a Dropbox download of photos taken on the day well worth it. A long but enjoyable day

Amazing experience, all of the crew did their best to make sure all of us had a fantastic day, the crew were experts and shared their knowledge with us