Passengers View Killer Whales up close

FAQs for First-Time Killer Whale Watching

FAQs for First-Time Killer Whale Watching with Legend Charters

Welcome to Legend Charters! We’re thrilled to help you prepare for an unforgettable killer whale watching experience. Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive. If you’re new to whale watching, this guide will ensure you feel ready and excited for the adventure ahead.


What Should I Wear?

Dress warmly! The ocean breeze can be chilly, even on sunny days. We recommend layering:

  • A waterproof jacket
  • Warm jumper
  • Long pants
  • Closed-toe shoes with good grip
    Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the elements.

When Are the Best Viewing Times?

Our tours run during peak killer whale season, when sightings are most frequent. The best time to see killer whales is during the morning or early afternoon when they are often active.

What Wildlife Can Be Spotted in the Bremer Basin?

The Bremer Basin is renowned for its astonishing biodiversity and is a haven for marine life. Alongside killer whales, you might encounter:

  • Sperm Whales, diving deep into the basin’s waters.
  • Pilot Whales, travelling in pods.
  • Beaked Whales, elusive and rarely seen.
  • Dolphins, including bottlenose and common species, showing off their playful energy.
  • Seabirds, such as albatrosses, petrels, and shearwaters gliding above the waves.
  • Australian Sea Lions, occasionally spotted basking on nearby islands.
    Every tour offers a unique experience, with the possibility of witnessing some of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures.

What Happens If We Don’t See Killer Whales?

While our sightings rate is incredibly high, killer whales are wild animals, and there’s no absolute guarantee. In the rare event we don’t see them, rest assured you’ll still enjoy a fantastic day on the water, learning about the marine ecosystem and spotting other incredible wildlife such as dolphins, seabirds, or even other species of whales.


What If the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather Conditions?

Your safety is our priority. If the weather is unsuitable for sailing, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer you the option to reschedule or receive a full refund.


What Should I Do If I Get Seasick?

If you’re prone to seasickness, we recommend taking preventative measures:

  • Consider motion sickness tablets (follow instructions on when to take them).
  • Stick to light meals before the tour.
  • Focus on the horizon or fresh air if you start feeling unwell.
    Our crew is trained to assist and will provide tips to help you stay comfortable during the journey.

What Food and Drinks Are Provided?

We’ve got your taste buds covered! Our tours include delicious meals catered locally, offering fresh and satisfying options to keep you energised throughout the day. You’ll also enjoy complimentary morning and afternoon tea, featuring hot drinks and light snacks.


What Can You Tell Me About the Catamaran?

Our state-of-the-art catamaran is built for comfort and adventure.

  • Size: Spacious enough to accommodate up to [insert capacity] passengers, ensuring a personalised experience.
  • Deck Viewing: Enjoy 360-degree views from our expansive decks, perfect for capturing stunning wildlife moments.
  • Ocean Capability: Designed to handle a variety of ocean conditions, ensuring a safe and smooth ride.

Do You Have an Onboard Photographer?

Yes! Our professional onboard photographer captures the magic of every tour. After your trip, we’ll provide a link where you can access and download the incredible images from your adventure.


Is There a Marine Biologist Onboard?

Absolutely! Each tour is accompanied by a qualified marine biologist. They’ll share fascinating insights into the behaviour, biology, and conservation of killer whales and other marine species, making your experience as educational as it is exhilarating.


Where Does the Tour Depart From?

Our Killer Whale Expedition departs from Bremer Bay Harbour, just a short drive from the heart of Bremer Bay. This charming harbour is the starting point for your journey into the breathtaking Bremer Canyon. Ample parking is available for all types of vehicles, including standard cars, motorhomes, and those towing caravans or trailers. The harbour is well-signposted, making it easy to find, and offers a hassle-free beginning to your incredible ocean experience.


Have more questions? Feel free to contact our team. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard for a day of unforgettable memories!

Book Your Killer Whale Watching Adventure Now!

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Question and answers: orca killer whales

Everything You Need to Know About Orca (Killer Whales) In Australia

 

What Time Do Orca (Killer Whales) Wake Up?

Orcas don’t have a standard wake-up time as their sleep patterns differ from land mammals.

They are uni-hemispheric sleepers, which means one side of their brain rests while the other remains alert.

This unique trait allows them to stay active and aware throughout the day and night.


What Are the Chances of Seeing Orca (Killer Whales) on a Tour?

From mid-December to April, Bremer Bay is one of the best places to witness killer whales.

With a 90%+ success rate, your chances of spotting orcas are excellent on a Naturaliste Charters tour.

On the rare occasion that no orcas are sighted, we offer a free revisit to ensure you don’t miss out.


Is Killer Whale Watching Worth It in the Rain?

Definitely! Orcas are active no matter the weather, and rain can create a dramatic and memorable backdrop for your tour.

Dress in waterproof clothing to stay comfortable, and enjoy the show!


What Is the Bremer Marine Park?

Bremer Bay is part of the Australian Whale Sanctuary, specifically within the Bremer Marine Park.

This protected area offers a haven for whales, dolphins, and other marine life while supporting activities such as whale watching, snorkelling, and sustainable fishing.


What Is the Best Month for Orca Watching in Bremer Bay?

The peak season for orca watching in Bremer Bay is December through April.

During this time, orcas gather in the Bremer Canyon, a nutrient-rich marine hotspot teeming with marine life.


Where Do Killer Whales Go in Winter?

Unlike humpback whales, killer whales don’t follow a strict migratory route.

Their movements depend on prey availability.

Some populations, like those in Bremer Bay, stay in specific regions year-round, while others may travel long distances to find food.


Where Is the Best Place to See Killer Whales in WA?

Bremer Bay, about five hours southeast of Perth, is the premier location to see killer whales in Western Australia.

Its unique marine ecosystem attracts a variety of wildlife, making it an unforgettable destination for nature enthusiasts.


What Is the Best Time of Day for Orca Watching?

Orcas are active throughout the day, but early morning tours often provide the calmest seas and ideal light for spotting these magnificent animals.


Will I Get Wet on an Orca Watching Tour?

There’s always a chance you’ll get wet from splashes or weather conditions.

However, our catamaran, The Alison Maree, offers covered seating areas to keep you dry.

Complimentary hot drinks, including coffee, tea, and Milo, are available throughout the trip to keep you warm and comfortable.


Do Killer Whales Fully Sleep?

No, killer whales never fully sleep.

They rest one half of their brain at a time, allowing them to breathe and stay aware of their environment while resting.


Where Do Orcas Rest?

When resting, orcas typically stay near the surface of the water, moving slowly and surfacing periodically for air.

This behaviour helps them remain semi-alert to their surroundings.


How Many Killer Whales Live in Australian Waters?

Exact numbers are unknown, but orcas are widely distributed throughout Australian waters.

The Bremer Bay population is one of the most studied, offering unparalleled opportunities for observation during the summer months.


Are Killer Whales the Most Common Whale in Australia?

While humpback whales are the most common, killer whales are the stars of Bremer Bay.

Known for their intelligence, hunting techniques, and striking appearance, they captivate visitors during the summer season.


How Fast Can Killer Whales Swim?

Killer whales are incredibly powerful swimmers, capable of reaching speeds of up to 56 km/h.

Their agility and speed are crucial for hunting and travelling vast distances. apex predators, killer whales have no natural predators.

However, human activities like pollution, habitat destruction, and fishing net entanglements pose significant threats to their populations.


What Do Orcas Eat?

Orcas have a varied diet that includes fish, squid, seals, and even other whales.

Their hunting strategies are highly sophisticated and often involve teamwork, highlighting their intelligence and social nature.


Summary

Bremer Bay is the ultimate destination for killer whale watching in Australia.

With peak viewing from December to April, join Naturaliste Charters for an unforgettable adventure into the heart of orca territory.

From breathtaking wildlife encounters to fascinating onboard insights, our tours offer a unique opportunity to witness these incredible apex predators in action.

To learn more or to book your Killer Whale Expedition.

Visit our website or follow our Facebook page for updates on sightings and tours.

A view from within Bremer Canyon of a killer whale

Bremer Bay Killer Whale Season Opens December

Bremer Bay Killer Whale Expeditions Return

 

One of the most exciting times of the year is rapidly approaching as Bremer Bay gets set to welcome the killer whale season.

Legend Charters sister charter Naturaliste Charters is about to move their purpose built luxury 23 metre catamaran down to the great southern coast.

Where they will launch from Bremer Bay harbour, preparing to commence tours to the Bremer Basin.

Playful Orca Bremer Canyon 2024
Playful Orca Bremer Canyon 2024

Bremer Canyon Hotspot

 

Bremer Canyon is renowned for its unique oceanic conditions, drawing an impressive array of seabirds and cetaceans.

The nutrient-rich waters support incredible biodiversity, from majestic albatrosses to playful dolphins and apex predators killer whales (orca).

It’s a place where the rare meets the extraordinary, and every trip offers a chance to observe something remarkable.

Sea Lion on Glasse Island in the Bremer Basin
Sea Lion on Glasse Island in the Bremer Basin

December Tour Start

 

Naturaliste Charters will commence the season with four days of Pelagic Birdwatching.

Exploring the Bremer Canyon for birdlife which visit the area from all around the world.

These limited tours have been operating for a couple of years attracting Australian bird enthusiasts and scientists.

Tours are accompanied by a marine biologists and photographers, recording the sightings of different species.

More information: https://naturalistecharters.com.au/booking/

An array of bird species visit the Bremer Canyon
An array of bird species visit the Bremer Basin

Killer Whale Expeditions

 

Probably the biggest ticket item on the annual whale watching season would have to be the Killer Whale Expeditions.

This extraordinary journey takes you to one of Earth’s least explored places.

Where an astonishing array of marine wildlife exists.

Exploring the heart of Bremer Canyon on a globally acclaimed expedition to witness the majestic apex predators – Killer Whales (Orca).

Killer whales visit Bremer Basin to hunt for food
Majestic Killer Whales Return to Bremer Basin for a Thrilling Hunt

Other Marine Life You Might Encounter

 

On your expedition along with Killer Whales (Orca) you may also see pods of long-finned pilot whales, false Killer whales, sperm whales, a rare beaked whale or blue whale.

Admire the acrobatics of large pods of dolphins, encounter various shark species, and marvel at the enormous oceanic sunfish along with a variety of stunning sea birds.

Sunfish are just one unique species you may see in Bremer Canyon
Sunfish are just one unique species you may see in Bremer Canyon

A Big Bucket List Tick

 

Bremer Bay is located in the Great Southern Region of Western Australia two hours east of Albany in the small fishing town of Bremer Bay.

A range of accommodation is available in Bremer Bay, but it does fill up fast.

Tick this experience off your bucket list and be prepared to be awed by the majestic killer whales of Bremer.

Book now so as not to disappoint https://legendcharters.net.au/whale-watching-tours/killer-whales-tour-bremer-bay/

Photos featured here are from our 2024 season.

 

Naturaliste Charters sister ship The Alison Maree
Naturaliste Charters sister ship The Alison Maree

 

Naturaliste Charters Whale Watching Tours Dunsborough

What to Expect on Your Dunsbrough Whale Watching Adventure

Whale Watching from Dunsborough

Get ready for an unforgettable encounter with the majestic humpback whales on a Naturaliste Charters whale watching tour in Dunsborough!

As the whale watching season approaches its end in November, here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect on this incredible adventure:

Embarking on the Alison Maree Catamaran

Your journey begins at the Professional Fishermans Boat Ramp in Quindalup, where you’ll board our 23 metre custom-built catamaran.

After walking down to the beach front climb onto the ramp to board the 20 seat tender which ferries you across a short distance to the Alison Maree.

This spacious and luxurious vessel is designed for maximum comfort and whale watching.

Wide viewing decks offer unobstructed panoramas, while comfortable seating ensures a relaxing experience throughout the tour.

Our friendly crew will be there to greet you, answer any questions you may have, and provide safety instructions before setting sail.

Cruising in Comfort

As we cast off and head out onto Geographe Bay, you’ll be treated to stunning coastal scenery.

Relax and take in the fresh ocean air as we cruise towards prime whale watching locations.

Our knowledgeable crew and marine biologist will share fascinating facts about humpback whales, their migration patterns, and the unique marine environment of Geographe Bay.

Morning or Afternoon Tea

To keep you fuelled for your whale watching adventure, we’ll provide morning tea or afternoon tea, depending on your chosen departure time. Enjoy a selection of refreshments and light snacks as you soak up the beautiful surroundings.

The Enthralling Search for Whales

Our experienced captain and crew will expertly navigate the waters, utilising their knowledge of whale behaviour and migration patterns to find these magnificent creatures.

Keep your eyes peeled for signs of whale activity, such as water spouts, tail breaches, and pectoral fin slaps.

Whale Watching Highlights

The highlight of your trip, of course, is encountering humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Towards the end of the Dunsborough season there are more opportunities to encounter Blue and Southern Right whales.

Witnessing these gentle giants breaching, spy-hopping, and gliding through the crystal-clear waters is a truly breathtaking experience.

Breathtaking Backdrop

As you search for whales, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning beauty of Dunsborough’s coastline.

Keep an eye out for iconic landmarks like Meelup Beach’s pristine white sand and turquoise bay and the dramatic cliffs of Cape Naturaliste.

The natural beauty of the region adds another layer of wonder to your whale watching adventure.

Making Memories That Last

Our goal is to ensure you have a memorable and educational experience on your Dunsborough whale watching tour.

With comfortable amenities, knowledgeable crew, and the chance to see these incredible creatures up close, your time with Naturaliste Charters will create lasting memories.

Important Note for November

As November marks the end of the whale watching season, whale sightings might be less frequent compared to peak months.

However, with our experienced crew and prime locations, you’ll still have a great chance of witnessing these majestic animals on their migration journey.

Ready to embark on your Dunsborough whale watching adventure?

Book your tour with Naturaliste Charters today and experience the magic of encountering humpback whales in the stunning waters of Geographe Bay!