Killer whales are orca and part of the dolphin family

Bremer Bay Killer Whales AKA Orcas

Bremer Bay: Killer Whales are Orcas

Bremer Bay is known as one of the best spots in Australia to see orcas. These incredible creatures are often called killer whales due to their impressive hunting skills. Orcas are apex predators, meaning they sit at the top of the food chain.

The name “killer whale” comes from their fearsome reputation, but it’s somewhat misleading. In the wild, orcas are highly skilled hunters and can take down large prey, including seals, sharks, and even whales. Their coordinated hunting strategies and powerful physique make them seem like “killers,” but they play a vital role in maintaining the balance of the ocean’s ecosystems. Killer whales are part of the dolphin family. In fact, they are the largest member of the Delphinidae, or dolphin family.

Killer Whales are members of the delphinidae family
Killer Whales are members of the delphinidae family

Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Bremer Bay for the chance to witness orcas in the wild. They come to the Southern Ocean, where orca pods are frequently spotted. The Bremer Canyon, located about 70 km offshore, is an ideal place for observing these magnificent animals.

Orcas are highly social and live in tight-knit family pods. These pods often hunt together, using sophisticated strategies. The Southern Ocean offers the perfect environment for orcas to display their intelligence and teamwork.

Bremer Bay is also renowned for its stunning natural beauty. The coastline stretches for miles, offering spectacular views of the Southern Ocean. With its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs, it’s an ideal place for nature lovers to explore. Popular beaches like Twelve Mile Beach and Little Boat Harbour offer the perfect setting for swimming, fishing or just soaking in the beauty of the area.

Beautiful Bremer Bay Beaches
Aerial view of Banky Beach, Bremer Bay

Bremer Bay is about 5 hours’ drive southeast of Perth, covering approximately 500 km. You can take the Albany Highway or the Brookton Highway, both offering scenic views. The Albany Highway is a more direct route, while the Brookton Highway offers a chance to explore charming small towns along the way.

For accommodation, it’s a good idea to call ahead and book, especially during peak seasons. Bremer Bay offers a range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. You can choose from camping and free camping spots, as well as well-equipped caravan parks. For a more luxurious stay, there are resort accommodations and holiday homes available for booking. Whether you prefer the simplicity of camping or the comfort of a resort, there’s something for everyone.

Peak season in Bremer Bay runs from December to April, coinciding with the killer whale migration period. This is when orca sightings are most frequent, and the town sees an influx of visitors. Booking accommodation early is recommended to ensure you have a spot during this busy time.

Naturaliste Charters purpose built catamaran The Alison Maree
Naturaliste Charters purpose built catamaran The Alison Maree

When you join one of our orca – killer whale tours, you’ll experience the thrill of seeing orcas up close. Our experienced crew will ensure you have the best chance of encountering these ocean giants. Watching orcas in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience. Orca are apex predators, hunters of the deep sea. Visit our sister site Naturaliste Charters to read and see a killer whale predation. !Beware it has graphic content!

If you’re a whale lover or an adventurer, Bremer Bay is the place to be. The orcas’ power, beauty, and grace make them one of the ocean’s most incredible creatures. Book your killer whale tour today for an adventure you’ll never forget.

Visiting the killer whale - orca off Bremer Bay
Visiting the killer whale – orca off Bremer Bay
January Week 2 Highlights of Orca Tours in Bremer Canyon

Bremer Bay Orca Tour Highlights – January Week 2

Bremer Bay Weekly Highlights: Orcas, Dolphins, and More!

This week in Bremer Bay was nothing short of spectacular. From thrilling orca encounters to playful dolphins and surprise appearances by marine wildlife, our guests were treated to unforgettable moments on the Southern Ocean.

More than a spyhop as this large orca launches into the air!
More than a spyhop as this large orca launches into the air!

6 January: A Royal Welcome

We kicked off the week with a warm welcome from Split Tip, the queen of the canyon, and her pod. Familiar faces like Lil Machi, Flapper, and the ever-quirky Wonks, with his floppy dorsal fin, delighted guests with close passes and playful behaviour. The skies above were equally lively, featuring wandering albatrosses, petrels, and even a rare sighting of the endangered Barau’s petrel.

Passengers enthralled at the sighting of orca in the Bremer Canyon

7 January: Orca Action and Mystery Meals

The day started with a high-energy show by Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins, darting through the waves. At the hotspot, El Notcho and Cookie’s pod led the charge, with Digby and Lucy Dash adding excitement with playful antics and dramatic tail slaps. Later, a mystery unfolded as orcas surfaced carrying reddish and yellowish meat, leaving everyone speculating about their hunt.

Common Nosed Dolphin greet us on leaving Bremer Harbour
Common Nosed Dolphin greet us on leaving Bremer Harbour

8 January: Common Dolphins and Close Encounters

A pod of common dolphins kicked off the day, gracefully porpoising through the water. At the hotspot, Nibbles and El Notcho’s pods displayed fascinating feeding behaviours near a thermocline layer, possibly targeting squid or fish. With close passes by towering males and playful juveniles, the day was filled with awe-inspiring moments.

Killer Whales are recorded by name but recognised by eye and saddle patch
Killer Whales are recorded by name but recognised by eye and saddle patch

9 January: Orca Playtime

Tatty’s pod stole the show west of the hotspot, with orcas like Kidji, Wasco, and Marley engaging in playful antics. Mischievous calves chased seabirds, rolled under the surface, and even breached spectacularly. Play is vital for orcas, helping them bond, practice hunting, and, of course, have fun!

Playtime in the Bremer Canyon
Playtime in the Bremer Canyon

10 January: A Dramatic Feed

Moody skies set the tone as we searched for orcas. Split Tip, Cookie, and Tatty’s pods joined forces, and their surface behaviour hinted at prey sharing. Guests caught glimpses of meat during the chaos, confirming a successful hunt. The day ended with a heartfelt goodbye as orcas surfaced close to the boat, waving us off.

A successful predation and prey sharing within the pod
A successful predation and prey sharing within the pod

11 January: Rare Encounters

Lucky’s rarely seen pod made an appearance, thrilling us with their towering males and the matriarch herself, Lucky, who is easily recognised by her missing dorsal fin. The day wrapped up with a surprise encounter—a smooth hammerhead shark cruising alongside us, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Bremer Bay.

Matriarch Lucky with her missing dorsal fin
Matriarch Lucky with her missing dorsal fin

Whether it’s the queen of the canyon, playful dolphins, or mysterious hunts, Bremer Bay never fails to deliver unforgettable experiences. Ready to join the adventure? Book your killer whale tour today and witness the magic firsthand!

 

There are no longer fishing charters in the south west of WA

The Demise of Fishing Charters in the South West

No More Fishing Charters

 

Legend Charters has been operating fishing charters from Busselton and Dunsborough since 2010.

In 2023 the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development brought new legislation into WA to protect demersal fisheries in the various regions.

Tags which were distributed to the various tour operators were limited and this meant it was no longer viable for tour operators to continue offering fishing charters to guests in the south west region.

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-02-14/wa-fishing-council-slams-move-to-increase-demersal-catch-limits/103465264

Naturaliste Charters catamaran the Alison Maree
Experience Whale Watching charters from the purpose built Alison Maree

Whale Watching Charters Grow

 

Before Legend Charters ceased operating fishing charters they opened up whale watching tours from Dunsborough, Augusta and Busselton towns.

This has become very popular, not just with visitors to the region but with locals.

Legend Charters took on a larger 23 metre catamaran and had it renovated to suit the ocean conditions in Bremer Bay, commencing killer whale tours from the harbour.

This catamaran is the Alison Maree and the business has grown and is operating under the Naturaliste Charters banner, with their home office located in Dunsborough.

Naturaliste Charters now operates whale watching tours in Augusta and Dunsborough from May until November each year and killer whale tours from Bremer Bay from December to April each year.

This means they now operate all year around!

Book an Augusta Whale Watching Tour May-August

Book a Dunsborough Whale Watching Tour August-November

Busselton Whale Watching Tours now leave from Dunsborough

Humpback Whale breach Dunsborough WA
Humpback Whale breaching. Dunsborough whale watching season.

What Can you See During the Various Seasons

 

Therefore, whilst we may not be able to offer you a fishing charter, we can still take you out onto the ocean to view the variety of whales and cetaceous species that inhabit the waters off the Western Australian coast.

Bremer Bay: Season December until April – Varieties seen include Killer Whales, Dolphins, Pilot Whales, Giant Squid, Pelagic Bird species, Sea Lions, Sharks, Sperm Whale, Sunfish this is not limited to these species however.

Augusta: Season May until August – Varieties seen include Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales, Dolphins, Pelagic Birds, Sharks this is not limited to these species however.

Dunsborough/ Busselton: Season May until November – Varieties seen include primarily Humpback Whales, Southern Right Whales, Blue Whales, Dolphins, Sharks and Pelagic Birds but this is not all that we may see from this location.

Book one of our bucket list tours here – https://legendcharters.net.au/book/

Killer Whale Season Bremer Bay
Killer Whale Season Bremer Bay

Humpback whale pectoral fin

The Best Time to Whale Watch in Dunsborough

Whale Watching in Dunsborough

Nestled along the stunning shores of Geographe Bay, Dunsborough in Western Australia’s South West region has become a top destination for whale watchers. Each year, the area plays host to several species of whales, particularly during the peak migration months. August until November stands out as the prime time to catch glimpses of various whale species as they journey southward after giving birth in warmer northern waters. Humpbacks, often seen with their calves, dominate the sightings, while visitors may also encounter majestic blue whales, southern right whales with their young, and even the elusive dwarf minke whale.

Commonly Sighted Whale Species

Humpback Whales

  • When: May through December (heading north to calving grounds and back south to feeding areas).
  • Traits: Recognised for their acrobatic breaching and impressive pectoral fins, humpbacks are the most commonly sighted species in Geographe Bay.

Southern Right Whales

  • When: June through November.
  • Traits: These whales stay close to shore, making Geographe Bay a favoured spot for calving and nursing. Unlike humpbacks, they are slower and less agile, with no dorsal fin and unique callosities on their heads.

Blue Whales

  • When: Occasionally spotted from October to December.
  • Traits: Known as the largest creatures on Earth, blue whales are more elusive but awe-inspiring. Their slim yet towering form can reach up to 100 feet in length and over 200 tons in weight, making them an extraordinary sight.

Minke Whales

  • When: Occasionally spotted, though less frequently than humpbacks or southern rights.
  • Traits: Minke whales are smaller and more difficult to spot due to their elusive nature, though the dwarf minke whale is occasionally seen here.

Pygmy Blue Whales

  • When: Often migrating through in late spring and early summer.
  • Traits: These smaller relatives of the blue whale sometimes swim in the deeper areas of Geographe Bay.

Orcas (Killer Whales)

  • When: Rare sightings, generally offshore.
  • Traits: Identified by their black-and-white coloring, orcas are top ocean predators occasionally observed in the bay.

Pilot Whales

  • When: Occasionally seen offshore.
  • Traits: With a rounded forehead and tendency to travel in large groups, pilot whales are distinguishable from other species.

With such diversity, whale watching in Geographe Bay offers an unparalleled experience, especially during humpback and southern right whale migrations.

Why Dunsborough Stands Out for Whale Watching

Strategic Spot on the Whale Migration Route
Dunsborough sits right along the migratory pathways for several whale species, including humpbacks, southern right whales, blue whales, and minkes, as they traverse from Antarctic feeding zones to warmer breeding grounds. The calm waters of Geographe Bay provide a resting stop, where whales often pause to rest and nurture their young.

Close Proximity for Shore-Based Viewing
The bay’s unique shape and sheltered waters draw whales close to the shore, allowing for fantastic sightings right from the coast. This proximity offers an incredible opportunity for both boat tours and shore-based whale watching, especially from popular locations like Point Piquet and Eagle Bay. Southern right whales, in particular, venture near the coastline, making for impressive sightings from the beach.

An Extended Whale-Watching Season
Unlike many locations where whales pass by briefly, Dunsborough boasts an extended season from September through December. Humpbacks are the first arrivals, followed by southern rights, and pygmy blue whales appear later in the season.

Diverse Marine Life
Alongside its variety of whale species, Dunsborough is known for sightings of dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life in Geographe Bay. This diversity adds richness to each tour, ensuring every trip is unique.

Ideal Whale-Watching Conditions
The turquoise, clear waters of Geographe Bay provide an excellent environment for whale watching, enhancing visibility and minimising cancellations due to rough seas. This makes for a smoother, more enjoyable experience in all conditions.

Commitment to Conservation and Sustainable Tourism
Dunsborough whale-watching operators adhere to responsible tourism practices, focusing on eco-friendly interactions that respect whale habitats. This commitment to conservation ensures an educational and meaningful experience for all visitors while supporting local environmental efforts.

With these exceptional qualities, Dunsborough promises a memorable and captivating whale-watching experience set against the beautiful backdrop of Geographe Bay. Join us for an adventure of a lifetime!

BOOK NOW!