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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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