killer whale trips

Bremer Bay Killer Whales #1 Experience

100% sighting lifetime guarantee.

During January to April each year our Killer Whale tours are departing daily from Bremer Bay. It is the best time to see the Killer Whales as they gather to feed in the waters off Bremer Bay.  Sightings are 100% guaranteed or you return again free of charge.

Included in your tour is a delicious buffet style lunch with hot and cold options available along with our salad bar.  Morning and afternoon tea, snacks and fresh fruit are available throughout the day. All beverages are included with a complimentary glass of beer, wine or champagne enjoyed on the journey back to celebrate your time with the Killer Whales of Western Australia.

Our professional photographer is onboard to capture all of the special moments throughout your tour and the best images of the day are available to download free of charge. Our live and educational commentary throughout your time with the Killer Whales will teach you about their incredible lives and introduce you to each of the family pods we meet.

Killer Whales

Departing daily from the Bremer Bay Boat Harbour our Killer Whale tours are all inclusive and are proudly 100% Killer Whale sighting guaranteed.   Should Killer Whales not be sighted on your tour you will receive a return voucher which can be used at anytime in the future, passed onto family or friends with no expiration date.

Tour Packages

Join our Orca Air experience, our transfer options from Albany and Perth or relax in our BnB in Bremer Bay. Our Killer Whale Tour packages are available to assist in designing the best itinerary for your journey to Bremer Bay.   Available from January through to April in one of the most pristine locations in Australia, make the most of your time in beautiful Bremer Bay.

Our Boat - 'Steep Point'

What our customers say.

Best day ever. The only operator to choose for whale watching. Very comfortable and luxurious boat, plenty of room for all passengers. The team of WhaleWatch WA are wonderful providing the most amazing experience I’ve had whale watching.

So much excitement when we sighted a pod of Orcas very early in the day and were able to see them and other pods for the entire time out. These amazing wild animals provided a great experience for us all.

The team onboard are very knowledgeable about all the habits and preferences of the orca. They show great respect to these wild animals in their own habitat and it was a pleasure and an honour to be part of this experience. 

Aussietravellers1 (Tripadvisor)

Absolutely amazing day! Spent today watching a pod of 100 Orcas hunting, eating salmon (very posh) playing and entertaining us. These gentle giants are so beautiful.

The boat is beautiful spotlessly clean, comfortable and perfect. Food and drinks provided all day. The staff are amazing knowledgeable, attentive, patient, friendly. They looked after the couple of people who were abit “green around the gills”. 100% recommendation! Thank you so much.

Dianne V (Tripadvisor)

The boat was great, the staff were great. Snacks and drinks available all day. Got to see a massive pod of dolphins then followed a family of orcas all day. It was amazing, you can see them clearly.

Barns Smith (Tripadvisor)

See a spectacular video of two pods of Killer Whales in Monterey Bay in 2019. .

See Additional News items below.

One of the best things to do in Monterey is to join one of the whale watching trips offered year-round by Monterey Bay Whale Watch. These trips allow you to observe the spectacular diversity and abundance of whales and dolphins inhabiting the Bay. Monterey is the best place in the nation to view a variety of marine mammals and seabirds. The Monterey Submarine Canyon approaches close to the shore at Moss Landing, allowing deep water species of whales, dolphins, and seabirds to occur near the coast. Shallow water species, such as the Gray Whale, are found very close to shore in the narrow shelf region. Depending on the season, whales and dolphins that are frequently observed include Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, Blue Whales, Pacific White-Sided Dolphins, Risso's Dolphins, Northern Right Whale Dolphins, Common Dolphins, Killer Whales, and Dall's Porpoise. We occasionally spot Fin Whales, Minke Whales, Harbor Porpoise, Bottlenose Dolphins, and Beaked Whales. Our captains have over 20 years of experience with nature trips and offer excellent views of marine wildlife. All our trips are led by marine biologists, most with 10+ years experience, who fully narrate and answer questions during trips. Our whale watching trips are educationally oriented and our biologists collect valuable data on the marine mammals sighted during these trips, including distribution, relative abundance, and behavior of whales and dolphins. We also photo-identify individual whales and dolphins, contributing to assessments of population, residency patterns, and migration or movement patterns. We are unique in that we are the only whale watching group that has marine biologists on all trips, offers trips in Monterey Bay on a regular basis, schedules trip lengths depending on the season to allow enough time to watch whales and other marine life, and has the most skilled captains who know where to find whales and how to approach them. There is a world of difference between our quality trips and shorter trips offered by others, providing merely a quick glimpse of a whale with no information. That's why we are considered the best of the whale watches in Monterey Bay!

Team Wanderlust | 24 July 2022

Awesome orcas: 9 great spots to see killer whales in the wild.

Killer whales can be easier to find than you think. From the icy waters of the Antarctic to the beaches of Patagonia – we uncover the best orca watching spots around the world...

1. Antarctica

Orca in Antarctica (Shutterstock)

The Antarctic is a great feeding ground for orcas and it is estimated that half the world’s population (around 25,000) reside there. Expedition cruises circle the Antarctic Peninsula in search of dorsal fins cutting through waves, or to witness orcas crashing into icebergs to knock unsuspecting sea lions into the water.

Where to see: Tours of the peninsula from Argentina’s Ushuaia are popular, with sightings of minke and humpback whales common. Trips from New Zealand to the Ross Sea in the eastern Antarctic are also rich in orcas.

When to go: February-March

2. Peninsula Valdes, Argentina

Orca on the hunt in Peninsula Valdes, Patagonia, Argentina (Shutterstock)

Neither heavy in numbers nor easy to spot, the lure of Patagonia ’s orcas is their sophisticated hunting technique. Witness the lobos (a local nickname meaning wolves) gulp down sea lion pups after purposely beaching themselves at high tide in order to capture their prey.

Where to see: Viewings are mainly land-based, with the beaches of Caleta Valdes, Punta Delgada and Punta Norte all good viewing spots.

When to go: March-April (Punta Norte) and September-October (Punta Delgada and Caleta Valdes)

Read next  22 of the world's weird and wonderful wildlife you have to see

Spot orca off the coast of Iceland (Shutterstock)

Orcas are common to the coastal fjords of western Iceland, where they devour a wealth of herring and often put on vivid aerial displays. Alternate whale sightings with skygazing, as you hunt down the northern lights at night.

Where to see: The lively village of Grundarfjörður, two hours’ drive north-west of Reykjavík on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, is the prime location for orca watching. Húsavík, on Iceland’s northern coast, also has a bounty of whales – including orcas – particularly during summer.

When to go: January-April (Snæfellsnes) and March-October (Húsavík)

Orca jumping out of the water near the Lofoten Islands (Shutterstock)

The waters around Norway’s northern region of Tysfjord and further towards the Arctic Circle are some of the richest fishing spots in the world – and they draw large numbers of whales. Seek out herring-hungry orcas and possibly jump in and swim with them too: this area is one of the few places in the world where you are permitted to snorkel alongside wild orcas.

Where to see: Many tours depart from the village of Andenes on the northern island of Andøya. Alternatively, the city of Tromsø has also recently emerged as a prime orca-watching hub.

When to go: November-early February

5. Bremer Bay, Australia

Orca near Bremer Bay, Australia (Shutterstock)

Located 50km off the coast of Western Australia , the ocean canyon around Bremer Bay has seen a frenzy of marine life in recent years. Reports put it down to an underwater hydrocarbon gas leak fertilising the waters, luring fish (and predators) from near and far. The area is now thought to be home to the largest group of orcas in the Southern Hemisphere, drawn by the promise of a free feed.

Where to see: Boat tours geared around orca watching go solely from Bremer Bay Boat Harbour.

When to go: Late January-early April

Read next  Ultimate marine wildlife experiences

6. alaska, usa.

Orca in Alaska (Shutterstock)

The movements of Alaska ’s 18 pods of resident orcas are dictated by two factors: ice and fish. When the pack ice advances off the north of the state, they head for the shallow waters off south-eastern Alaska to gorge on king salmon and for the females to calve. Humpback and minke whales are common, while the majority of wild sea otters also call Alaskan waters home.

Where to see: Orcas gather in the Kenai Fjords, around Resurrection Bay, as well as in Kachemak Bay. Tours depart from nearby Seward and further south-east from Juneau’s Auke Bay Harbour.

When to go: June-September

7. San Juan Island, USA

A couple of orca near San Juan Island (Shutterstock)

The salmon-rich waters of the San Juan archipelago, off the coast of Washington state, provide a feast for the islands’ three resident orca pods as they track fish close to the shores during the summer months. It’s not just orcas on view: grey, minke and humpback whales also frequent San Juan’s waters. Keep an eye out, too, for soaring bald eagles in full flight.

Where to see: Tours regularly depart San Juan’s Friday Harbour, or visit Lime Kiln Point State for shore-based whalewatching.

When to go: Mid-April to mid-October

8. Auckland, New Zealand

An orca in front on Auckland's skyline (Shutterstock)

During the New Zealand summer, pods of orca can be seen passing through  Auckland . You will also see the endangered Bryde's whale which reside in the Hauraki Gulf year-round. And the amazing marine life doesn't stop there, with humpback, dolphin, sharks, turtles and even the little blue penguin regularly being spotted. 

Where to see: Tours depart from the Viaduct Basin - only a short walk from the centre of Auckland - from where you'll be taken to the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. 

When to go: October-March 

9. Vancouver Island, Canada

An orca off the coast of Canada (Shutterstock)

Vancouver Island is home to two main orca communities. Go to the south of the region to see around 80 killer whales feeding on salmon or head north to catch some of the 260 that patrol these areas. As the orcas are very used to the coming and going of boats, you will have the chance to get excitingly close to the predators. 

Where to see: Victoria, Campbell River, Telegraph Cove 

When to go: May to October in the south and July and August in the north 

Love whale watching? Read on:

The best whale watching on the bay of fundy, canada, can you whale watch in colombia, how to spot whales in the maldives, related articles, looking for inspiration.

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Orca (Killer Whale) Spotting

It might surprise you to learn that orcas are not whales,despite commonly being referred to as “killer whales.” They are actually the largest member of the dolphin family, and just like dolphins, they travel in pods that include adult males, adult females, and calves. Their name actually comes from orcas that were spotted eating whales—whale killers—which eventually became killer whales.

Watch for Orcas

The orcas you’ll see in Alaska fall into two groups—residents that travel in pods from 10 to 50 and are more stable in the area, or transients that travel in smaller pods of three to seven and travel greater distances for feeding and hunting. These animals grow as large as 30 feet and tend to travel near the surface of the ocean, coming out of the water to spout every few seconds along the way. With their trademark black body, tall triangular dorsal fin, and small white patch near the eye they are easy to spot and identify.

Wildlife in the Waters

Many orcas populate the waters around Southeast Alaska near Pybus Point Lodge, and they occasionally come right inside the bay not too far from our docks. During our guided saltwater fishing excursions and daily adventuring, our guides can help increase your chances of seeing these awesome creatures.

CUSTOM-BUILT BOATS

A boat for all adventures.

When you fish the waters of Alaska, you need a boat that can handle any situation. That's why we are proud to partner with Wooldridge and ACI boats, who provide exceptional service in the boating industry. Our boats have wrap-around decks, advanced GPS, and they even have a bathroom just in case nature calls. Check out our video highlighting all our boats have to offer!

Hook, line, and sinker.

Discover why people like you can’t stop talking about Pybus Point Lodge. More than 30 years ago, the lodge opened as a simple fishing camp, drawing a devoted following in spite of basic accommodations. With new owners and experienced captains and crew, our corner of Alaska has become an unbeatable fishing and eco-tourism resort. ‍

Andrea Tate

Incredible Experience!

Pybus Point Lodge has some of the most stunning scenery I’ve ever seen. I mean absolutely breathtaking! In addition to the amazing fishing, I hiked to a beautiful secluded lake, soaked in some hot pots, saw several waterfalls, went whale watching, saw bears and all kinds of wildlife and marine life. As a photographer, photographing a wedding under a waterfall will remain a highlight of my life.

Shirley Johnson

Pybus Point Lodge - WOW!

We had the best time! This was our first visit to Pybus, but it definitely will not be our last. The stunning scenery, amazing fishing experience, and the joy of meeting new friends – all outstanding! We did not want to leave!!! If you are thinking about this trip – don’t think any more, just book it. You will not regret it!!!

Sharon Hedding

Trip of a Lifetime!

We had such an amazing time the staff was so wonderful and the lodge was fantastic! capt Joe was so helpful and always doing what ever he could do to make each day special. a special thank you to both Scott and Jody for taking the time to make us feel like family. can't wait to go back next year

Jason Nielsen

Wonderful and Magical Place

We had an amazing business retreat to Pybus Point Lodge.  Everything was top notch... the fishing, the staff, the boat captains, the food, the accommodations, and especially the scenery. I really liked that Pybus took care of everything from start to finish. Chef John is an amazing cook. We had delicious hot meals the entire trip.  The cabins were amazing and very comfortable.  The fishing was awesome and that’s coming from a guy that doesn’t fish that much.

Brandon Foote

We brought home 100lbs of fish!

My wife and I spent a week at Pybus Point this Summer. We had a beautiful, private room overlooking the bay and our own new, ensuite, private bathroom. What an amazing place for couples to get away together. We set our own breakfast time, met our boat captain after, fished the day along, and returned to clean up and enjoy a nice dinner at the restaurant. Next time Alaska is on the trip list, Sherrie and I will go together, and it will be to Pybus Point!

Kent Danjanovich

Fun in Alaska

This was my first trip to Pybus Point. I stayed in one of their new cabins. The accommodations were incredible, the view onto the bay in the mornings was stunning. I loved the staff and the food was really very good. All of this and they have new boats to take you out onto fairly calm waters to fish. The fishing guides were great. Overall a great experience. Definitely going back.

GET IN TOUCH

Unlimited skiff acesss.

Enjoy unlimited access to our fleet of motorized skiff boats. We’re just minutes away from beautiful freshwater stream fishing, and some of our guests’ biggest halibut catches have been reeled in on a skiff.

Guided saltwater fishing 2

Quality tackle & gear, fish cleaning & vacuum sealing, custom built boats, guided saltwater fishing 10, new accommodations.

Three new 33’ walk-around boats make their debut for our 2019 season. Featured in the Seattle Boat Show and designed stem to stern specifically for ocean conditions in Alaska's Inside Passage, we couldn’t ask for better boats.

Gourmet Menu

Guests love our build-your-own lunches, featuring fresh ingredients and thin-sliced meat we smoke right outside. Meals at the lodge are always made to order – no buffets or cafeteria-style meals at Pybus Point Lodge! Our chef has created menu options that are beautiful and delicious without feeling pretentious or unfamiliar.

Full Time Guide

If you’re going to come all the way to Alaska, you may as well fish with an experienced guide on hand to keep you on the fish and take care of all the little details. You can enjoy the scenery, your company, and the world-class fishing. You’ll get your guide’s attention as much as eight hours each day – already included in the cost of your trip.

Guided saltwater fis Chartered Float Plane hing 2

Upgrade your trip to see the Alaskan wilderness from the air. Our experienced pilot will land on a secluded lake and guide you to some of the best salmon and native trout fishing in the state.

Daily Maid Service

While you go out and play, our talented staff will make sure your room stays tidy and clean! We receive even more compliments about our friendly staff than we do about Alaska's stunning beauty!

Cell Tower & WiFi

Pybus Point Lodge is located on the remote and secluded far south edge of Admiralty Island National Monument. Coverage is always tricky in deep valleys and remote natural areas. We found that AT&T has the most reliable cellular service at the lodge while T-mobile, Sprint, and Verizon can be picked up while out on the ocean. We do have a lodge phone you can use if necessary. If you can't get a signal, we do provide free high-speed WIFI to the lodge and cabins. A popular option is to utilize your phones WIFI calling mode to communicate and take calls while at the cabin, although we prefer to unplug and enjoy all that the island has to offer.

Humpback whale watching

The calm, cool waters of Alaska’s Inside Passage are the perfect habitat for humpback whales. Our guests tell us close encounters with these peaceful giants have changed the way they see the world – and we know just what they mean.

Fortress of the Bears

You’ll stay with us on Admiralty Island, called Xootsnoowú by native Tlingit people, which means “Fortress of the Bears.” There are more bears on our island than in all 49 other states combined – and more than 2.5x the number of people here!

Seals & Sea Lions

A short ride in one of our skiffs will take you to the mouth of a river where, if your timing is right, you can watch salmon make their final run to spawn. When it isn’t overrun by bears dining on the feast, you can walk upstream just a few minutes to a beautiful waterfall in the thick forest.

Orca (killer whale) Spotting

From tiny phosphorescent algae lighting up our private docks to enormous humpback whales hunting in our deep, calm waters, you won’t find a more beautiful place to experience Alaska. Pybus Bay is a photographer’s paradise – bald eagles and brown bears, orca, otters and sea lions, and more. We can’t wait to help you experience Alaska.

Secluded Alaskan Waterfalls

Sawyer glacier day trip.

Take quick detours or day-long excursions to explore some of our planet's most beautiful, remote waterfalls and glaciers.

Meet us in Juneau and let our experienced staff handle every detail of your all-inclusive Alaskan vacation, starting with a beautiful seaplane flight to our secluded lodge at Pybus Bay.

Unforgettable Encounters with Killer Whales in Bremer Bay

Your #1 Bucket List Experience

Naturaliste Charters brings you the world-renowned, full-day Killer Whale Expeditions departing from Bremer Bay, Western Australia. Witness the Ocean’s Apex Predators in comfort when you board our new state of the art 23 metre long vessel, the Alison Maree. We are located just a 2-hour drive from Albany and a 5-hour drive from Perth, with our thrilling tours running daily from December to April, as these are the best months to see Orcas in Bremer Bay from up close!

Experience the Ultimate Bremer Canyon Killer Whale Orca Expedition with an Extra Hour of Adventure! Our tour goes above and beyond, offering you 60 additional minutes of awe-inspiring whale watching that sets us apart from the competition. Discover more, the extra hour could be the difference of a great experience or a phenomenal one. Make every moment count – choose the tour that gives you more time with the incredible Orcas!

Killer Whale (Orca) Expedition

Children (10-17 year):

Departure Dates: Daily departure from December – April. *Dependent on weather conditions and minimum numbers.

Duration: Approximately 8 hours. *There is sometimes a slight variation due to wildlife activity and interactions or weather conditions.

Departure Time: Arrival 7.45am ready for vessel departure by 8.30am

Expedition Vessel: Bremer Bay’s newest, safest, and most comfortable vessel “ Alison Maree ”, designed for the Southern Ocean with stability in mind —your ultimate pick for Whale Watching. Experience swift manoeuvrability to keep pace with Killer Whales and multiple deck areas ensuring exceptional views all day long.

Your Bremer Bay Killer Whale Expedition Inclusions:

• Our own Qualified Marine Biologist on board every expedition delivering you expert commentary throughout the day!
• Be a Citizen Scientist for the day, discovering firsthand how you can contribute to important research and scientific endeavours.
• Our Professional Photographer captures the day’s highlights, which is complemented with a daily blog written by our marine biologist, conveniently delivered to your inbox the following day.
• Indulge in a premium catering experience during your expedition, where an assortment of fresh food is seamlessly served to you throughout the day.
• Enjoy a variety of refreshments including Cool drinks & fresh chilled filtered Water or take a break and enjoy a selection of Teas, Coffee, Milo and Biscuits.
• Spend an extra hour with the Orca, we stay out longer than any other company, elevating your experience to the extraordinary, giving you the best experience possible.
• Our Killer Whale Sightings Guarantee – See Killer Whales or join us again for FREE! T&Cs apply

Other Marine Life You Might Encounter

On our Killer Whale Expeditions, you will have the opportunity to encounter not only the incredible Bremer Bay killer whales but also an incredible natural gathering of marine life. These include sperm whales, long-finned pilot whales, and the rarer beaked whales and blue whales. If it’s your lucky day, you might even come up close and personal with pods of striped, bottlenose, and other species of dolphins leaping in and out of the water! You could also spot the rare sunfish and different species of sharks, including the great whites, whaler sharks, and the stunning oceanic blue shark.

Cruise the Ocean in Comfort & Luxury

Experience Killer Whale Watching in Bremer Bay like never before as you journey with us to the Southern Ocean aboard our luxury vessel, the Alison Maree . She is a sturdy 23 metres long catamaran, built right here in Western Australia to handle the local Southern oceanic conditions. The Alison Maree has been thoughtfully designed with three spacious viewing decks and an air-conditioned interior. Visit the wheelhouse for a 360-degree panoramic view of the ocean, or explore the saloon where seat-to-ceiling windows allow for uninterrupted wildlife viewing. Our state-of-the-art 3D plotter also provides an exceptional whale watching experience. Read More…

Our new fully refurbished vessel comes equipped with:

• Life jackets for everyone on board
• 2 x modern toilets with hand washing facilities – 1 suitable for wheelchair access
• Access to our tea & coffee station
• Access to wheelhouse with the skipper
• Newly installed outdoor chairs offering lumbar support and protective padding
• New stepdown platforms, bringing you closer to wildlife encounters than ever before

Guaranteed Whale Sightings

With a 96% sighting rate, your chances of seeing Orcas in Bremer Bay are very high. However, in the unlikely scenario that no killer whales are sighted, you will be able to come back another day for FREE. T&C’s apply see our No Whale Sighting Policy.

One way or the other, you are guaranteed to see killer whales when you travel with Naturaliste charters. We pride ourselves in providing the #1 Bremer Bay Killer Whale Experience and our 700+ 5-Star reviews on TripAdvisor bear witness to that.

Professional Photographer On-Board Every Expedition

We have a professional photographer onboard every expedition to ensure you get the highest definition pictures for your socials. After the tour, you will be sent all photos for FREE and a detailed blog of your day with us. Check out some of the ones we have already taken!

Passionate & Experienced Crew

What to Expect on your Killer Whale Watching Expedition?

Bremer Bay Boat Harbour where you will board the comfortable and spacious Alison Maree. Our unique multimedia presentations will provide you with entertaining background knowledge while you enjoy restaurant-prepared Croissants and Morning Tea. We usually reach a killer whale hotspot within 90 minutes of leaving the harbour and also encounter a variety of wild marine life along the way. Read More…

Once the Orcas show up, you’ll be able to start taking pictures while one of our crew members provides detailed commentary on the killer whales’ behaviour, their hunting skills, and migratory patterns. A professional photographer will also be taking high-definition photos, so you can live the moment and not have to worry about taking the perfect shot.

During the tour, we serve restaurant-prepared Lunch and Afternoon Tea all prepared by the Local Wellstead Museum Cafe in Bremer Bay. We also have onboard refreshments which include cool drinks, an assortment of tea, coffee, milo, and fresh chilled filtered water.

Unforgettable Shark Diving and Big Animal Encounters

Location : Norway

Orca Live-Aboard Free Diving Expedition

An orca expedition like no other.

Photo © Andy Murch

Why come with Big Fish Expeditions

There are very few places where one can legally snorkel and free dive with orcas. Most countries do not permit divers to enter the water with resident orcas and sightings in other areas of the world are simply too unreliable. Our trips take place in the fiords of Norway where orcas historically show up year after year. Although encounters are never guaranteed, we go during the peak season when the killer whales are following the herring migration.

An incredible adventure

Our Norwegian orca expedition includes 5 days chasing killer whales and humpbacks in the spectacular fiords of northern Norway. During our trips, you will spend 6 nights aboard the well equipped liveaboard expedition vessel, the M/S Duen.

THE ENCOUNTER

Free diving/snorkeling with orcas.

DATE November 13-20 3 SPOTS AVAILABLE

VESSEL M/S Duen Liveaboard

PRICE (USD) $5195 per person double occupancy $6195 per person single occupancy (FULL)

DATE November TBA 8 SPOTS AVAILABLE

PRICE (USD) $TBA per person double occupancy $TBA per person single occupancy

ACCOMMODATION Liveabaord Expedition Vessel MS Duen

EXPERIENCE LEVEL Snorkeling experience only

WHAT’S INCLUDED 7 nights liveaboard accommodation in twin or double cabins.

6 days at sea searching for / interacting with orcas (weather dependent).

All meals and non-alcoholic beverages while onboard.

All harbour fees and taxes.

English-speaking support.

Northern lights tours (subject to weather and Aurora activity).

NOT INCLUDED

• Personal snorkeling equipment rental
• Ground transfers

OTHER WHALES

During our time at sea there is also the possibility of encountering a number of other whale species including humpack whales, sei whales, minke whales, fin whales and pilot whales.

WORDS FROM OUR GUESTS

Home after an incredible trip to Norway to swim with orcas! Another awesome time with Big Fish Expeditions! We had some perfect encounters with orcas in the water, and watched humpback whales feeding with them on herring from the boat. This was the most amazing thing I’ve ever done, and I would do it again in a heartbeat!

Trisha Stovel, Vancouver, BC., Canada.

If you’ve ever had the desire to see Orcas from their perspective, this is the trip. Right from the start, the crew has a method for encounters that start with the whales first having the option of staying away from us. You can jump in the water with a lot of different large species, but these intelligent and social animals are pretty much the pinnacle. What struck me on this trip was not so much being in the water with a pod of Orcas, that was anticlimactic after all the planning and preparing. It was their sheer power and size seeing them from the dive boat that impressed me the most. They are more remarkable when you’re at their level on the surface than you’d ever imagine if you saw them from a whale watching tour on a large boat from 100 meters away. Here, they surface right next to you and you’re looking right at that two meter tall dorsal fin sail by. If you’re not into diving or snorkeling, this would still be the trip of a lifetime if you want to see and photograph Orcas up close. You will also see other whale species spouting, and perhaps like us, see Humpbacks together with the Orcas sharing the bait ball. If you want to get in the water, be prepared for an extreme adventure, but one that you’ll never forget.

Dustin Hurbut, Washington State, USA.

Take a peek at this short video by one of our guests

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TRIP REPORTS

2016 Orca Snorkeling Expedition Trip Report

2014 Orca Snorkeling Expedition Trip Report

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Blue Whales

Delivering world-class wildlife encounters since 2010

Big fish expeditions founder andy murch has spent the last three decades chasing big animals all over the world. few people have andy’s knowledge and organizational skills necessary to put together a professional expedition. have a look through some of the comments from our guests: testimonials., guest feedback, about big fish expeditions.

5 stars! I’ve been on three trips with Big Fish Expeditions. Each one was well organized and jam packed with unique wildlife encounters. I am booked for another trip next year and for many more to come. Highly recommended!!

GO. YOU WILL NEVER REGRET IT!

I have been on 3 Big Fish Expeditions trips by now and have more trips to look forward to in the near future. First of all I share a big passion for sharks, whale and other big marine life and Big Fish Expedition is all about that. As an amateur photographer is great to be among equals and even better to get new tips and ideas from professionals.

Andy is very helpful showing new tricks and talk about UW photography in between dives. Sure the destinations offers world class diving but it’s also about the people and the relation to people and Andy surely gives everyone the feeling of being very welcome and try to give everyone a lifetime experience.

Another good thing is that Andy is maybe the only pro shooters who offers trips to very reasonable prices. I won’t go into details about all the good dives I’ve done with Big Fish but instead say GO, you will never regret it!

Br, Rasmus Raahauge  Denmark

ANOTHER GREAT ADVENTURE WITH BIG FISH EXPEDITIONS

Just returned from my second trip with BFE and it went off perfectly. The true adventure of these trips always present challenging logistics but they pulled it off flawlessly. I would highly recommend BFE to anyone looking to get “off the grid” and experience a wildlife trip of a lifetime. I am looking forward to my next adventure with them. Thanks again!!

Scott O. Detroit, Michigan

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING TIME WITH BIG FISH EXPEDITIONS

Andy is one of the best in the business. I would highly, highly recommend anyone interested in an animal focused trip to go with big fish expeditions.  The quality of experience and knowledge of the trip leader really sets them apart. Expect to get your fill of animals no matter what the trip is. Andy is also great at finding other animals to incorporate within the trips.  If you’re looking for a shark trip or big animal experience, this is your place. Period.  Enjoy!

Jesse B. Ontario, Canada

AMAZING TRIPS

BIG FISH EXPEDITIONS

I have been on a couple of Big Fish Photography Expeditions trips now. They are always well organized, and exceed my expectations! Andy puts together unique and action-packed trips. I’m looking forward to my next dive experience with him.

Trisha S. Vancouver, BC

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KILLER WHALE ADVENTURES

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 5.5-6 hours
• Users Ages: Ages 8+
• Info Note: These special extended Killer Whale trips will be offered on the following Saturdays Only! -APRIL 23, 2022 -APRIL 30, 2022 -MAY 7, 2022 -MAY 14, 2022 -MAY 21, 2022

Extended Killer Whale Cruises

Killer Whales are frequent and often unpredictable visitors to Monterey Bay. Due to the transient nature of the Killer Whales they can be spotted any time of year, however during April and May we get an increase in sightings as the Killer Whales spend more time moving through the Monterey Bay as they utilize The Monterey Bay Submarine Canyon to hunt Gray Whale calves as they work their way to Alaska for the first time.

These extended Killer Whale Cruises will take advantage of the Killer Whales’ increased presence in the area by dedicating more time to searching the bay for and spending quality time with the Killer Whales.

While we will put every effort into looking for the Killer Whales we cannot guarantee we will find them. There is a wealth of other wildlife in the bay so we will take every opportunity to spend time with other whale and dolphin species we find along the way.

These extended trips are perfect for avid whale watchers, photographers and even bird watchers wanting to spot pelagic birds.

Please keep your personal physical fitness and mobility in mind prior to choosing this extended trip. This trip is not recommended for those who have had recent surgery or injuries.

These extended trips will last between 5.5-6 hours so please plan accordingly

Sea Sickness Due to the constant motion of the boat it is recommended to consider sea sickness preventatives. We do not always know the sea state prior to departing and who or how someone will be effected by the motion. We cannot predict who will get sick!

There are a variety of seasickness preventatives available in the shop prior to departure or consult your Doctor or Pharmacist if you are concerned about getting sick.

DUE TO THE EXTENDED DURATION OF THE TRIP AND FURTHER DISTANCE TRAVELLED THE CAPTAIN RESERVES THE RIGHT TO RETURN TO SHORE AT ANYTIME SHOULD THE WEATHER CONDITIONS CALL FOR IT.

These special extended Killer Whale trips will be offered on the following Saturdays Only! -APRIL 23, 2022 -APRIL 30, 2022 -MAY 7, 2022 -MAY 14, 2022 -MAY 21, 2022

Your trip will take place on the 100ft Atlantis Monterey with full access to the upper and lower decks. There are restrooms, indoor heated cabin and a snack bar with snacks and drinks for sale.

We cannot take children under 12 or pregnant women on these trips.

• Chevron down How should we dress?

We recommend that you dress in warm layers, wear long pants, and a warm windproof jacket. A wide brimmed hat or baseball cap and a warm cap, along with flat-soled closed toed shoes are also a good idea. The Bay gets sunny, so bring sunglasses and don’t forget sunblock and chapstick.

• Chevron down Do you guarantee that I'll see a whale on every trip?

While we can’t guarantee a whale sighting every trip, our experience has allowed us to maintain an unsurpassed record for success in the Monterey Bay area! If you do not see a whale and/or dolphin, you will receive a voucher to come back for another trip for free.

• Chevron down Are the boats handicapped accessible?

We do not allow walkers or wheel chairs on our boats due to the safety of all passengers. Unfortunately, there are 14 steps down to our loading area and one large step onto the boat over the water that are not passable by a wheelchair. If you are mobile and able to navigate the steps, our friendly staff is always willing to assist you. If you need more information, please click on “”Contact MontereyWW”” on the left of the page.

• Chevron down Can you bring dogs?

As much as we love dogs we do not allow them on the boats. This is for your dogs comfort and safety. However, service animals are allowed on board, but not a therapy dog.

• Chevron down What happens in the event of bad weather?

Severe weather in this area of California is rare and cruises will proceed as scheduled in light rain and other mild weather conditions. Both our boats are enclosed with plenty of large windows, so your visibility shouldn’t be impaired! In the rare event that a cruise for which you have purchased tickets is cancelled, you will have the opportunity to to reschedule your tickets (subject to availability), receive credit towards a future event, or receive a full refund

• Chevron down Can I bring alcohol on the cruise?

Beer and wine for sale in the snack bar. No outside alcohol is allowed on the boat.

• Chevron down Can I smoke on the boat?

No, the Princess Monterey and the Atlantis Monterey are completely non-smoking, including both the inside and the decks.

• Chevron down Refund/Rescheduling Policy

Non-refundable, cannot be rescheduled.

Once purchased, tickets cannot be refunded and cannot be rescheduled because your space is being guaranteed at the event.

• Chevron down Other Policies

Activity may be cancelled due to severe weather.

Activity usually runs in light rain and moderate weather, but the seller may cancel the activity up to an hour before start time in the event of severe or unsafe weather conditions. In the rare situation the seller must cancel the event prior to departure, ticket-holders will be allowed to reschedule tickets (subject to availability), receive credit for a future event, or receive a full refund.

Bremer Bay Killer Whale Watching

The famous bremer bay orca.

Bremer Bay whale watching is an experience that you will always treasure. An abundance of wildlife including the famous Bremer Bay Orca (Killer Whales) visit off the coast of the small Western Australian coastal town of Bremer Bay every summer. This wholesome and tranquil town is home to the most exciting whale watching experience in Australia.

Bremer Bay Tours

Whale watching season in bremer bay.

The whale watching season focuses on two seasons which both have slightly different peak seasons. Depending on when you are wanting to go whale watching or what species you are inspired to meet will determine the best time to visit.

January – April

One of the best places in the world to go whale watching all happens off the coastline of Bremer Bay every January to March. Orca, Sperm Whales, Pilot Whales and Sunfish are just a few of the many species who gather during this time of year to feast on squid and pelagic fish species. The largest congregation of Orca in the southern hemisphere provides the perfect opportunity to meet one of the most elusive species in the ocean, the wild Orca of Australia.

July – October

Southern Right Whales begin to arrive from July onwards in sheltered waters located around Bremer Bay to give birth to the next generation. During these months for the keen eyed observer the occasional Humpback Whale will also be sighted during their northern and southern migrations. The best place to search for and view the resting mothers and calves are in the sheltered bays around Bremer.

The Experience

For a memory that will last a lifetime Join The Pod with Whale Watch Western Australia and experience the Orca’s world. Learn The Language Of The Whales with Australia’s most experienced and dedicated whale watching company. Our day starts in the pristine waters off Bremer Bay boat harbour to end up only 19 nautical miles off the coast, what awaits you is a wildlife extravaganza from killer whales (Orca) to an array of wildlife including sperm whales, pilot whales, pelagic bird species, beaked whales and many more.

They arrive every year between January and April for feeding and socialising with other family pods. The depths start at around 900 metres to eventually veer down to 4 kilometres deep.

‘The Patch’ in Bremer Bay becomes a massive feeding ground for many different species, the orca being one of them. We get to witness some of the most amazing sights of nature, we have had many world firsts from different hunts to new species sighted. The Patch is an astounding place that never ceases to amaze us with what we get to see, to witness the hunt and become a Pod Member with the orca families we know so well.

A Bremer Bay Killer Whale tour with Whale Watch Western Australia is a once in a lifetime eco-tourism experience that is not easily forgotten. Once you see an orca in it’s natural environment, Witness The Hunt and observe their power and grace it is a memory you will treasure for a lifetime.

Joining the pod of Whale Watch Western Australia you will meet our family, as we own and operate the tours all year round. Our cetacean behaviourist and marine scientists onboard will give you a detailed understanding of how our wildlife lives, from the hunts to the play you will know exactly what is going on with our live commentary throughout your tour.

The killer whales mostly hunt giant squid and, when they can, larger prey such as beaked whales. These fascinating marine mammals all have their preferred food preferences and hunting tactics which they pass on in their family groups, from generation to generation.

The orca are very social creatures, which you will see during your tour. Their strong family bonds with the other individuals in their pods are clear to see, as they hunt, play and rest together. The killer whale’s natural inquisitiveness gets the better of them time and time again, we get to share so many memorable moments with their family pods.

They recognise the sound of our vessel and without hesitation come racing over to greet us. Through time spent respecting our orcas over the years we have built an incredible relationship with these amazing creatures. The research we do onboard every tour through photo ID and family tree work has added a huge amount of knowledge, We work with local and International researchers to make sure we get to know these orca intimately.

Whale Watch Orca Research (WWOR) ensures we can deliver our knowledge to those who want to learn about the orca’s world. Photo ID gives us the opportunity to see who is who, knowing the family pod’s structure and family members allows us to keep track of injuries and new calves born. Our onboard photographer knows every killer whale by name and she will let you know who you are sharing your time with.

The activities we get to see from the West Australian Killer Whales can vary from the hunt to socialising, you will get to witness the natural nature of the apex predator.

We always pride ourselves on our motto “To observe behaviour, not influence behaviour” as to witness these incredibly intelligent creatures in their wild environment is a privilege and our responsibility to respect our orca is paramount.

No two days are the same in the Bremer Canyon. It is impossible to predict what we will encounter. There are times the orcas can surge for kilometres reaching speeds up to 40-50 kph and we are right there with them, hunting with the orcas can be exhilarating and unforgettable an experience that is hard to describe, you will just have to Join The Pod to create a memory that you will never forget.

Nothing will prepare you for the sheer excitement of seeing your first orca. The distinct dark shadows connect the striking white eye patches as they cut through the deep blue waters of the Southern Ocean that flow beneath your feet. The power of the surge, white water exploding like a firework leaving your mind in awe.

Whale Species in Bremer Bay

The two seasons bring with them different whale species with some of the most elusive animals found in Australian waters often sighted out in the Bremer Canyon. The nursery grounds for Southern Right Whales located closer to the coastline are a vital part for the growth of these endangered species.

Orca – Killer Whale

The largest congregation known in the southern hemisphere has over 150 individuals gathering from January to April. The family pod’s of Killer Whales or Orca are feeding on squid and pelagic fish species during this time of year, some of the Orca’s are generalist’s, meaning they prey on varied diets, including other cetaceans and we often sight social behaviour, live hunts and interaction with our vessel and guests onboard.

Learn More ‘Killer Whale Facts’

Sperm Whale

The largest toothed predator on the planet who also has the largest brain of any creature on earth, the Sperm Whale is certainly a very impressive individual. An apex predator in their own right, Sperm Whales also feast on the millions of squid that gather in the Canyon during January to March.

Pilot Whales

One of the most beautiful whale species we interact with, the large family pods of Pilot Whales can see hundreds of individual travelling together with most of the pods we interact with numbering from 200 – 1,000 individuals. Highly social and interactive most will often come right up to our vessel to check everyone out before continuing their busy forging for the next meal.

Southern Right Whales

During July to October the heavily pregnant female Southern Right Whales arrive along the southern coastlines of Australia to give birth to the next generation. Resting in the calm and sheltered waters of Bremer Bay the will raise their calves over the cold winter months in protected waters as they prepare for their late spring migration back towards Antarctica. During this time of year the occasional sighting of Humpback Whales can also be spotted as they migrate past the coastline.

Other Species Sighted in Bremer Canyon

The list of different species sighted in the canyon is unique to this marine eco frontier and although not sighted on every trip, these are just some of the amazing sightings we often encounter. Sunfish, Beaked Whales, Oceanic Dolphin Species, NZ Fur Seals, Australian Sea Lions, Sharks, Albatross and other pelagic bird and fish species.

Bremer Bay Boat Harbour

Located at the end of Swarbrick Road, the Bremer Bay Boat Harbour is only a short five minute drive out of town. There is plenty of free parking along with a local Australian Sea Lion who can often be sighted cruising around the harbour. Neighbouring Glassy Island is often home to thousandths of nesting seabirds depending on the season and there is also a colony of Australian Sea Lions and Fairy Penguins who happily call Glassy Island home.

Departure Location

Bremer Bay Boat Harbour, Swarbrick Road, Bremer Bay, Western Australia

Bremer Bay is located 5.5 hours drive from Perth or a two hour drive from Albany. Self drive, planes and personalised bus transport are the best ways to get there. Should you be travelling with a caravan it is the perfect place to add into your travel itinerary and spend a few days enjoying the pristine beaches.

During our Orca season (January to March) we see the average temperature between 15 to 26°C (59 to 80°F) and beautiful warm sunny days. The Southern Right Whales arrival in the sheltered bays along the coastline bring with them the cooler days of winter and spring. July to October will see an average temperature of 12 to 24°C (53 to 75°F) and a warm jacket is always useful all year round.

The peaceful township of Bremer Bay is a perfect place to spend some time enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife of the region. Fishing, surfing, paddle boarding, the Historical Wellstead Museum, Leafy Sea Dragon Dives and a round of golf or a tennis match are great ways to spend your time. The calmness of the coastal town will allow you to unwind and enjoy nature at its finest, especially when there are wild Orca just waiting for you to meet them!

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Whale Watching Bremer Bay

Ethical orca tours in bremer bay reviewed, bremer bay whale watching.

Whale watching in Bremer Bay is often among the first activities that people plan when visiting this charming coastal town.

Nestled along the southern coast of Western Australia , this location is renowned for its endless sandy beaches, providing an optimal vantage point for an exceptional orca watching experience .

Bremer Bay’s pristine waters serve as both a vital feeding ground and a crucial point along the migratory path of these captivating marine animals. This distinctive combination of factors positions it as an ideal destination for an unforgettable orca tour in Bremer Bay .

If you’re getting ready for a trip to Bremer Bay, especially for an awesome whale watching experience, there are some important things you should know about the place and the cool things to see:

• When is the best season for whale watching in Bremer Bay?
• How do you ensure you select an orca tour that’s ethical and responsible?
• What steps should you take to get ready for the trip?
• How can you ensure capturing the finest photos and videos of the experience?

Within this guide, we’ll share key considerations for planning your expedition. So, read on and plan for an unforgettable whale watching adventure in Bremer Bay!

Best orca WATCHING TOUR in Bremer Bay

Bremer bay killer whale tour.

Embark on a 7-hour whale watching adventure from Bremer Bay Boat Harbor, a 2-hour drive from Albany, and witness the remarkable gathering of orcas in the Bremer Canyon.

Knowledgeable experts provide live commentary, while an underwater camera and hydrophone offer insights into the whales’ natural behaviors.

The Steep Point vessel boasts 5 viewing decks, ensuring unobstructed views and comfort, including a heated interior saloon and fully-licensed cafe. Experience exceptional service and a chance to be part of groundbreaking research in the Southern Hemisphere’s largest orca congregation.

About this activity

Highlights – Whale watching trip from Bremer Bay Boat Harbor. – Learn from experts through live commentary. – Observe whales & dolphins in their natural habitat. – Experience stunning views aboard a specialized luxury vessel.

Duration – 7 hours (From Albany add 2 hours for driving)

Departure point – Bremer Bay Boat Harbour, Western Australia

Live tour guide – English

What’s included – Lunch with complimentary beverages – Unlimited tea, coffee and water – Free postcard and photos of your experience – Luxurious and warm inside seating lounge

What to bring – Sunscreen and sunglasses – Motion sickness medication (recommended) – Camera

Whale Watching Season in Bremer Bay

The whale watching season in Bremer Bay takes place during  two seasons , each with its own peak period. The best time to visit depends on the specific species you hope to see and when you plan to go whale watching.

Best time to see orcas Bremer Bay

From January to April is the best time to do an orca killer whales tours in Bremer Bay . The area is home to one of the largest gatherings of orcas in the southern hemisphere. This is a great time to see these elusive creatures, as well as other species such as sperm whales, pilot whales, and sunfish. These animals come to the area to feast on squid and pelagic fish species.

Best time to see Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales in Bremer Bay

From July to October , Southern Right whales arrive in the sheltered waters around Bremer Bay to give birth. During these months, it is also possible to spot humpback whales during their migrations.

Whale Species in Bremer Bay

In addition to the southern right whales, humpback whales, and blue whales, there are several other species of whales and dolphins that can be found in Bremer Bay. These include the orcas, bottlenose dolphins, common dolphins, and pilot whales. 

Is it allowed to swim with the orcas in Bremer Bay?

Swimming with whales and dolphins is not allowed in Bremer Bay or anywhere else in Australia. The Australian government has strict guidelines in place to protect both the whales and the humans who may encounter them. These guidelines include a code of conduct for whale watching, which prohibits any activities that may disturb or harm the whales.

What other marine wildlife can you see in Bremer Bay?

The Bremer Canyon is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of seabirds including albatross, shearwater, and petrel species often seen feeding on giant squid floating on the surface. Besides birds there are also various species of sharks that you can encounter such as great whites, whaler sharks, and the oceanic blue shark.

Code of conduct for whale watching in Australia explained

The Code of Conduct for Whale Watching in Australia is a set of guidelines designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both whales and humans during whale watching activities. The code was developed by the Australian Government in consultation with various stakeholders, including industry representatives, scientists, conservationists, and community groups.

It was established in 2017 and is regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest research and best practices in whale watching.

The code is intended to promote responsible and sustainable whale watching practices, with the goal of minimizing the potential for negative impacts on whales and their habitats. It includes guidelines on how to approach and observe whales, as well as rules on what activities are allowed and prohibited.

For example, it is not allowed to touch, feed, or swim with whales, and all activities must be conducted in a way that does not disturb the whales or their natural behaviors.

The code also provides recommendations on how to minimize noise and other potential impacts on whales, such as by avoiding areas where whales are known to be sensitive or by using appropriate vessel speeds and distances.

It also encourages the use of best practices for boat handling, such as avoiding sudden changes in speed or direction and minimizing the use of engines near whales.

Overall, the Code of Conduct for Whale Watching in Australia is an important tool for ensuring that whale watching activities are conducted in a responsible and sustainable manner, while also providing an enjoyable and educational experience for visitors.

Photography & video tips for whale watching in Bremer Bay

A whale watching trip can be an incredible opportunity to capture stunning photographs and video of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. However, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to help ensure that you get the best possible shots during your trip.

• Plan ahead and do your research. It’s important to have a good understanding of the type of whales you might encounter on your trip, as well as the best times and locations to see them. Researching the best spots for whale watching and the behaviors of the different species can help you prepare for the best possible shots.
• Use a long lens. Whales are often quite far away from the boat, so it’s important to have a lens with a long focal length to help you get close-up shots. A telephoto lens with a focal length of 300mm or longer is ideal for capturing detailed images of whales.
• Pay attention to the light. The best light for photography is often found in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is low in the sky and casts a warm, golden light. Avoid shooting directly into the sun, as this can create harsh shadows and blown-out highlights. Instead, try to position yourself so that the light is coming from the side or behind you.
• Use a fast shutter speed. Whales are constantly moving, so it’s important to use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action. A shutter speed of at least 1/1000th of a second is recommended to help eliminate motion blur.
• Be patient. Whales are wild animals and can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be patient and wait for the right moment to capture the perfect shot. Don’t be afraid to spend some time just watching and observing the whales before attempting to photograph them.
• Don’t forget about the environment. In addition to capturing photos of the whales themselves, be sure to also photograph the surroundings and the environment in which they live. This can help to give context to your images and help tell the story of the whales and their habitat.
• Experiment with different angles and compositions. Try shooting from different angles and perspectives to add variety to your images. For example, you could try shooting from above or below the whales, or using a wide-angle lens to capture the entire scene.
• Use manual settings. In order to get the best possible shots, it’s important to have control over the camera settings. Try using manual mode and adjust the aperture, ISO, and shutter speed to suit the lighting conditions and the action of the whales.
• Shoot in RAW. Shooting in RAW format allows you to capture the maximum amount of detail and gives you more flexibility in post-processing. This is especially important when shooting in challenging lighting conditions, as it allows you to make adjustments to the exposure and white balance without degrading the image quality.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. Remember to respect the whales and their habitat, and follow the guidelines set by the whale watching tour operator. Stay a safe distance from the whales, and avoid making loud noises or disturbing them in any way.

By following these tips and using a bit of patience and creativity, you can capture stunning photographs and video of whales on your next whale watching trip.

What are some of the other famous whale watching spots in Australia?

• Hervey Bay, Queensland: This Fraser Coast location is known for its calm waters and diverse marine life, making it a top destination for observing whales.
• Albany, Western Australia: This southern coast town is a hot spot for whale watching due to the large number of humpback whales that migrate through the area annually.
• Port Stephens, New South Wales: This eastern coast region is renowned for its beautiful beaches, abundant marine life, and opportunities to spot dolphins and whales.
• Eden, New South Wales: This picturesque town on the far south coast of New South Wales is a prime location for viewing southern right whales during their annual migration.
• Head of Bight, South Australia: Located on the Nullarbor Plain, this region is known for its stunning coastline and marine life, including a large population of southern right whales.
• Gold Coast, Queensland: Located in southeast Queensland, the Gold Coast is a popular spot for observing a variety of whale species, including humpback whales, minke whales, and killer whales.
• Sydney, New South Wales: With its rich marine life and beautiful beaches, Sydney is a top location for viewing humpback whales and other species such as minke whales and killer whales.
• Port Lincoln, South Australia: This southern coast town is renowned for its stunning coastline and diverse marine life, including southern right whales, humpback whales, and minke whales.
• Great Australian Bight, South Australia: With its rich marine life and stunning coastline, the Great Australian Bight is a popular spot for viewing southern right whales and other species such as humpback whales and minke whales.
• Warrnambool, Victoria: Located on the south coast of Victoria, Warrnambool is known for its beautiful beaches and diverse marine life, including southern right whales, humpback whales, and minke whales.

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Location norway

Swim with killer whales and humpbacks in norway.

Best time to go november

Swimming with Killer Whales & Humpbacks

Ship based safari.

An incredible ship-based safari with the unique opportunity to swim with, and photograph killer whales (orcas) and humpbacks in the wild Norwegian waters. Surrounded by icy fjords and imposing glaciers, this unforgettable trip offers you an opportunity to witness pods of colossal orcas and humpback whales. Leaving dry land behind, you'll travel on our very own private chartered boat, the M/V Kinfish, for the duration of your marine adventure. This gives you the advantage of versatility in your routing while sailing through the Norwegian waters due to her small size, is easily manoeuvrable. You’ll also have a chance to see the magnificent dancing Northern Lights.

Our expert team have been running whale trips to Norway for a number of years; almost the entire time in which orcas have been found migrating to these waters. In the past, our clients have remained close to land, watching and swimming with the whales during their hunts off the coast of Tromsø. However, this pioneering expedition will see you searching for Norway's whales in a way that few others have done before: out on the water for days on end, on board your own expedition ship.

Highly trainable, these beautiful creatures have controversially been featured in many aquarium shows, as well as blockbusters such as ‘Free Willy’ back in 1993. They have stable family groups of five to thirty, hunting together to bring down tasty prey that ranges from squid and fish, to seals and sea lions. They work together to tip animals resting on floating ice into the water, deliberately beach themselves to scare prey and even hunt other whales.

R/V Kinfish

With room on board for just 12 passengers, the ship has an intimate atmosphere, and her small size allows her to access some of the smaller fjords and coves along the coastline.

Expert Guiding

Your guides will be experts in the world's whales; NWS specialist leader team Rita Messing, Patrick Dykstra , Peter Webster , Kayvon Malek, Sarah Conner and Joshua Barton have all travelled the globe in search of the largest creatures on the planet.

Small Ship Expedition

As you are in search of whales, their exact journey (migration) can never be exactly predicted; by using a chartered boat you will be able to change direction and stay in specific areas for as long as you wish.

The Northern Lights

When dusk falls, head up to the open bridge and keep an eye out for the famous Northern Lights.

Patrick Dykstra

Expert Marine Videographer and Photographer

We’ve collaborated with Patrick Dykstra who is well-known among the nature documentary field. He is the visionary for the trip and even though he won’t be on-board, his involvement has been key in creating our 2023 expert team, along with being at the centre of developing this experience. He won a BAFTA for his cinematography work on BBC’s Blue Planet 2 and has also filmed major nature programs for Netflix, National Geographic, Apple, Discovery, BBC and others. His latest feature film about his friendship with a sperm whale titled 'Patrick and the Whale' was released in September 2022. Read more about Patrick.

Talk to a Norway Specialist Today

What to expect.

After arriving into Tromsø Airport, you'll make your way to your hotel for the night. If you feel like a casual coffee or something freshly baked, stop by Smørtorget for delicious pastries and local artwork in a friendly and relaxed setting. Koseverden is another option for fans of baked goods, boasting an impressive array of options along with a lunch menu and coffee from a local roaster. Read more about what to do in Tromsø.

Swimming with Whales

On your day of embarkation, you'll head away from the bright lights of the coast on the trail of orcas and humpbacks in the open ocean, tracking the movement of the pods as they hunt for huge shoals of herring. When you find the whales, you will head out in zodiacs to get closer to the water and, weather conditions permitting, you'll be able to take to the water in small groups and swim alongside these magnificent mammals. The considerable expertise of your team will ensure an unforgettable experience. The exact itinerary will depend on the cetaceans' locations, but regardless of where you find yourself, you can look forward to hearing about your guides' experiences with whales around the world, see the beautiful landscapes of Northern Norway.

Sold Out for 2024

There is availablity on our Swimming with Killer Whales & Humpbacks Land-Based Safari for 2024.

Dates & Prices norway

Talk to a norway destination specialist today.

Trip was phenomenal, outstanding experience overall. Surpassed his expectations in every aspect, had a fantastic time. Great group onboard, wonderful crew and service. Ship was very nice. Food was far better than expected, nice mix of meals. Great guides, they were fun, helpful and extremely knowledgeable. App and pre-trip communication were great, a lot of prep work that was very well done. More support from NWS than expected. NWS team were very helpful, even when members were out of office somebody would jump in and make sure the quick responses were maintained.

Had a great trip, really good time. Great luck with whale sightings, especially a 'rad' last day with numerous humpbacks and killers whales. Excellent guides who executed everything well, clearly very knowledgeable and knew what they were doing. Loved the chef, very funny dude and good food. App and documents were great, no issues there. Felt supported by NWS, 24hr emergency contact was great.

This was one of the most incredible experiences of my entire life. I still can’t even believe that this is something I did. The whales were beautiful and getting a chance to swim with my favorite animal and an apex predator was life changing. The app was incredibly useful and I loved the daily countdown and individualized itinerary!! Lisa, Kayvon, and Sarah: I am so grateful for every single talk, instruction, for their experience, safety awareness, and love of the ocean and these incredible creatures we were able to see. They were all so passionate which gave space and fostered an environment of excitement and learning. Jasper, Willhelm, Patrick, Harold, Olaf, Alice, Emma, Jessica, Lynn, and Crista: The crew was incredible! I wanted to be a part of the crew. Haha! It takes a lot of people to run a ship safely and smoothly and the mix of these human beings together was a beautiful thing to witness. They were always willing to chat with us about the different components of the ship, their specific roles, and their lives off the ship. The food/wine on the Kinfish was top notch! Crista works magic in the kitchen. He had to create a vegetarian dish, a meat dish, and a gluten-free dish every single meal. I will be coming back. The Kinfish was home away from home. Thank you again to everyone who made this a possibility.

Whole trip was amazing, incredible experience overall, no real complaints - Blown away by everything, team was awesome, ship was great, was not expecting such amazing food as this wasn't really mentioned much before attending, wonderful surprise - Felt lucky throughout the whole trip, from Northern Lights on the first night, plenty of whales throughout and a great final day - got everything that they wanted to see out of the trip - Loved the crew - especially Krista, Lynn and Olaf - Small group size of 8 passengers was lovely - Felt very lucky to have Sarah added to their departure, were so grateful her her being onboard, she was absolutely amazing

Blackfish Waters Orca Kayak Tour

Sea kayak with orcas in british columbia.

Kayak with orcas in the Johnstone Strait , the BEST place in the world to observe killer whales as they feed on salmon off northern Vancouver Island. This is the only itinerary to spend 6 days in the heart of the areas where orcas roam, optimizing your chances of special encounters with these magnificent whales. Enjoy full-height canvas tents with sleeping cots in this unique base-camp to base-camp tour. 

If you long to kayak with orcas, you've come to the right place.  While some people are content to simply watch whales, sea kayakers yearn to experience them. Maximize your orca experience in the breathtaking scenery of Vancouver Island's inside passage. Here in Johnstone Strait, summer home of the northern resident orcas, paddle whale-rich waters and explore the the marine wonders of their ecosystem.

If weather permits, you'll stay at three different base camps on three different islands on the heart of the orca loop. Full-height canvas tents with sleeping cots await you at each of these wilderness base camps, so you can enjoy the orcas without the hassle of making and breaking camp or hauling a tent. Part of your tour will be spent in Blackfish Sound, home of orcas and a high concentration of humpback whales!

You will depart from Telegraph Cove in Port McNeill while our expert guides showcase the beauty and wildlife of the area. The whales may steal the show, but the Strait holds an entire ecosystem to explore. Peer at sea stars and anemones through crystal clear waters from your kayak, paddling glassy calm coastal inlets and channels in this sheltered wilderness. Learn about orcas from the guides' nature talks and the on-board library while friendly sea lions lounge on outcrops or take to the waves to get a closer look at you. Pass playful dolphins and curious porpoises, whose acrobatic water antics are mirrored by the aerial displays of eagles and sea birds . You will also observe First Nations pictographs, hike through forests filled with Old Growth Cedars, and learn about the aboriginal cultures that inhabited these lands. (If you would like to paddle the Broughton Archipelago, which is near Johnstone Strait but not a haven for orcas, head over to our Broughton tours. )

Green doesn’t mean lean! Camping with Sea Kayak Adventures means "getting away from it all," without "leaving it all behind." Our tours are fully-catered with gourmet meals prepared daily from scratch like our fresh salmon bake, and daily happy hour with wine and hors d’oeuvres. We provide all of the camping and kayaking gear, so you just need to bring your clothing! Sea Kayak Adventures proudly adheres to all Be Whale Wise regulations and is a supporting member of NIMMSA (North Island Marine Mammal Stewardship Association).

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Arrive in Port McNeill, Orientation Meeting

Travel to Vancouver Island’s stunning northern coast to begin your orca kayak adventure. The town of Port McNeill, is a working waterfront fishing village just 30 minutes south of the Port Hardy airport. Many of our guests choose to stay at the Black Bear Lodge, where your guides will host the trip orientation meeting on the evening before your trip. You will have a chance to meet your fellow guests and acquire your drybags and wetsuit booties.

ACCOMMODATION : Black Bear Resort (Not included)

Telegraph Cove, Kayak to Base Camp

Early in the morning, we provide transport from the Haida Way Motor Inn south to the launch site in charming Telegraph Cove, where your guides will provide a kayaking safety and orientation lesson. We launch from Telegraph Cove, paddling immediately out into the roadless, thickly forested, sheltered Johnstone Strait, in the heart of orca territory and home of the world's only orca preserve. Weather permitting, you will kayak to our series of wilderness basecamps three different islands on this loop trip. Each of our base camps is equipped with pre-assembled, full-height canvas tents and sleeping cots. Enjoy happy hour including local wines and hors d’oeuvres while the guides prepare a special surprise for dinner. Recap the day's highlights over fresh baked dessert around a crackling campfire and gaze at the starlit sky or the glowing blue bioluminescence of the ocean before snuggling into your tent to sleep.

MEALS INCLUDED : Lunch, Dinner

Sea Kayak the Johnstone Strait and Blackfish Sound

Awake to the smell of fresh brewed coffee and tea as the sun crests over rainforest boughs. Your guides will be wide awake and hard at work preparing a warm breakfast, but you can relax with a steaming mug of your favorite drink while wandering the beach for tidepools, reading a book, or watching a pod of passing orcas. You will kayak throughout orca territory in Johnstone Strait, and explore the adjacent channels and islands around Blackfish Sound where humpback whales may be spotted. Expect to kayak over four hours per day, broken up by lunch hour and floating rest breaks. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Robson Bight Orca Preserve, Sea Kayaking, Hiking

You will paddle to Robson Bight Orca Preserve as well as to First Nations pictograph sites on various days of your trip. Orcas can appear at any time on our tour. Killer whales can cover dozens of miles per day and often swim up, down, and around the strait hunting salmon or playing. You can also spot eagles, seals, porpoises or other marine mammals or seabirds at any time. Our guides use hydrophones when the orcas are in view so that you can thrill to the orcas vocalizing to each other underwater! Evenings and dinner will be spent relaxing in camp around a cozy campfire, toasting the day's adventures and listening to the guides spin tales and recount local legends. Orcas blowing offshore makes for a spectacular lullaby.

Telegraph Cove, Whale Museum and Return to Port McNeill

After breakfast and breaking camp, you will spend the day kayaking to our take-out at Telegraph Cove, stopping for lunch along the way and a visit to the Telegraph Cove whale museum. A taxi will return your group to Port McNeill in the afternoon, after unpacking the kayaks. We recommend that you overnight in Port McNeill and join us for a no-host farewell dinner with your group.

Note on Itinerary: We will do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above and visit our base camps on three separate islands. However, the itinerary may change due to reasons beyond our control such as wind, waves or inclement weather. Although there is a very good chance we'll see Orcas throughout the week, the frequency and proximity of sightings will ultimately be determined by the Orcas' travel patterns. Our guides know the best places to see these magnificent creatures.

ACCOMMODATION : Black Bear Resort

Featured Accommodation

Camping in British Columbia

Dates & rates, supplementary information.

FAMILY DEPARTURES (For children as young as 9):  Ask your Adventure Consultant for more details!

Single Kayaks are available for $100 supplement

Due to limited number of tents at each camp we cannot guarantee single occupancy tents.

Private Charter Trips

• Minimum number of guests required: 10 paid spaces at the regular rate.  
• Maximum number of guests: Pay for 13 at regular rate and 14th goes free.

TOUR INCLUDES: 

• All meals while on tour
• Optional provided wine with dinner
• Transportation to and from the launch site
• Kayaking instruction
• All kayaking and camping equipment
• Dry bags for your gear
• Neoprene booties
• Service of our certified professional Guides
• Full service of our Adventure Consultants

TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE: 

• Transportation to and from Port McNeill
• Hotel before and after the tour
• Meals before or after the tour
• Special drinks or alcohol (excluding wine)
• 5% Canadian Sales Tax
• Gratuity for guides
• Items of a personal nature

ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.

A Trip of a Lifetime!

This trip is a MUST. I have not been on a ton of trips, but this was the first trip I planned solo. My goal was to get away from the busy life, slow down, and be in God's creation. The kayaking trip was good for the soul. I had hesitations going by myself, but I am glad I did. I met people from my trip all over the world, and we all got along incredibly well. Our guides were amazing - even it being the last trip of the year for them. They went above and beyond...we had lasagna one night on the rocks, just so we could watch the orca and humpback show going on in the bay. We saw wildlife every day as well as orca. I went to bed and woke up to the sounds of orca and humpback...However, I know this is not always the case that you will see as much wildlife as we did, but you never know until you go. I HIGHLY recommend this trip. When I get married, I want to bring my wife back here to do this or bring a bunch of friends. The food (you eat and drink like king and queens in the backcountry), the guides, the people, the wildlife, and the adventure - you cannot beat.

A wonderful wild adventure

I couldn't fault this trip. We saw orcas pretty much every day, humpbacks, bald eagles, dolphins, seals and sealions on multiple days, and loads of other birds. The camps had everything we needed, and were basic (in a good way, feeling very close to nature) but comfortable. The food was excellent, they accommodated our dietary requirements (vegan) expertly. The guides were extremely knowledgeable, friendly and entertaining. They went above and beyond to give us the best possible experience. I would heartily recommend this trip, and SKA generally.

What a fantastic trip!

What a fantastic trip! I cannot recommend Sea Kayaking Adventures highly enough. From the communication, flexibility to the organization and guides - it was absolutely amazing.

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Faq & more, when is the best time to see whales.

The northern resident pods of orca (killer whales) currently number over 220 individually identified whales in 17 separate pods. They are generally found in Johnstone Strait when salmon, their primary prey, come from the ocean to spawn in the rivers of mainland British Columbia. The whales arrive after about the first week in July, and stay through late September. Our tours are scheduled only during the times when the whales have historically populated the area. Transient killer whales are found in the area beyond this narrow summer window, but are fewer in number and offer infrequent sightings. Humpback whales return from their breeding grounds in Hawaii early summer, and remain through the autumn. Though once hunted to extinction from the area, humpbacks have returned to the area as a tremendous success story, and are almost more common than orcas!

Is there a danger while kayaking near killer whales?

There are no recorded attacks on humans in history from wild orcas. To our knowledge a killer whale has never bumped a kayak or shown any aggression toward kayakers. All whales are acutely aware of their surroundings, and can use echolocation to track objects in their waters. From our many years in Johnstone Strait and hundreds of close encounters with killer whales, we feel very safe being in their presence. Most of the orcas we encounter are strictly salmon-eaters.

Will I definitely get to see the orcas?

Orcas are wild animals free to roam at will, and while we have a very high success rate for seeing orcas in the Robson Bight region, we cannot guarantee a sighting. To increase your opportunities for seeing the orcas, or simply to enjoy even more whale watching, you might want to add an extra day to your vacation to go on a Stubb's Island Whale Watching trip that is operated by motor skiff. Their motorized boat allows them to cover more ground in search of orcas and humpbacks throughout the Johnstone Strait area.

How do I get to Port McNeill?

The easiest way to get to Port McNeill by air, is to fly through Vancouver International Airport (airport code YVR) to Port Hardy, BC (airport code YZT). From Vancouver International's South Terminal you can catch a flight on Pacific Coastal Airlines direct to Port Hardy. Once in Port Hardy, it's a 35-40 minute taxi ride to Port McNeill. If arriving from outside of Canada, be sure to give yourself 1.5-2 hours between your arriving flight at Vancouver International and your departing flight from the South Terminal to Port Hardy, as you will have to clear customs and take a 15 minute shuttle from the International Terminal to the South Terminal (there are signs to guide you). Port McNeill is also accessible by car, via a beautiful drive following BC Route 19 from Nanaimo to Port McNeill. Vancouver Island can be reached from the Canadian or U.S. mainlands by utilizing one of multiple ferry crossings from the Vancouver metro or greater Seattle areas. The BC Ferries and Washington State DOT Ferry websites are very helpful resources if you are planning to drive to Northern Vancouver Island. For more information on getting to Port McNeill, please see here. 

How do I get from Port Hardy to Port McNeill?

If you fly into Port Hardy, you will need to arrange a taxi for the 35-minute drive South to Port McNeill. You can expect to pay about $45-60 CAD for the one-way fare, however rates do vary. We recommend sharing the ride with other members of the tour if you meet one another on the plane (or are on the same flight when departing). It's best to bring cash to pay the driver. For more information on getting to Port McNeill, please see here. 

Where do I stay before and after my tour?

We recommend the Black Bear Resort for accomodations as this is where we will meet the night before your schedualed activities. All hotels on northern Vancouver Island fill well in advance for summer, so wherever you choose to stay, we recommend making reservations early. Please note, hotel nights before and after the tour are not included in your tour cost. There are plenty of things to see and do in Port McNeill and Port Hardy if you choose to extend your stay. 

What if I don't get to see Orcas?

You can always extend your trip through our friends at Stubbs Island Whale Watching or Mackay Whale Watching tours. Both are experienced operators located on Northern Vancouver Island. Whale watching by boat will allow you to quickly move to areas where sightings are reported, increasing your changes of seeing whales.

Can I paddle a single kayak?

We have single kayaks available to reserve and use throughout the trip (for an additional cost of $100) for paddlers who have previous ocean paddling experience. If you would like to reserve a single kayak for your trip you will need to contact our Adventure Consultants to add this to your reservation and provide a summary of your ocean paddling experience.

How close can we get to Orcas?

For all of our British Columbia kayaking tours, we follow "Be Whale Wise" regulations for the protection of the whales. According to the regulations, viewers must stay 200 yards/meters or more away from Orcas. We are very privileged to have the opportunity to observe these incredible creatures from close vantage points. The survival of the Orca, depends on everyone's cooperation with the "Be Whale Wise" and other responsible whale watching regulations. Occasionally, because orcas are much faster than us while in a kayak, they approach us much closer than the above guidelines. That said, many of our closest encounters have been from land, as the whales often come within meters of the shoreline! Understanding the behavior and range of the Orcas helps to better-set your expectations for your Orca kayak tour. Feel free to explore www.BeWhaleWise.org to read more about these regulations.

Which trip is right for me? The 4-day or 6-day Orca kayaking trips?

The four-day trip utilizes one campsite for all four days. You have more time to relax and enjoy the beautiful wildlife and scenery. Families with teens, novice kayakers, or those who prefer a slower pace would be ideal for this tour. The campsite we use on the Vancouver Island side of Johnstone Strait, by exclusive permit, is close to Robson Bight. The base camp's shoreline is composed of sea-polished stones that lure an orca to rub its 6-ton body along the beach, or herd salmon into the curve of the shore. Orcas regularly pass by directly in front of camp. Paddlers can scramble down the rock outcropping and stand at water's edge to watch orcas cruise by just below their feet. The camp offers great orca viewing right off shore. We never just "wait around for orcas" on the base camp. We take daily day trips, paddling to different beaches for lunch, hike, observing wildlife. Each trip includes about 4 hours per day of kayaking: two hours paddling in morning, and another two hours paddling in the afternoon after lunch. Often there is a hike at the lunch stop, and the evenings are filled with campfires, games, or fishing. On the 6-day tour, you'll enjoy 2-3 different sites (including the aforementioned basecamp) that are located along the travel routes used by the orcas. Given this loop route and the length of the trip, you are likely to see more wilderness areas and a more diverse selection of marine life. For instance, the six-day tour includes a visit to an area that's frequented by humpback whales. You will also have a chance to explore First Nations pictograph areas, and the base of the Broughton Archipelago, while remaining firmly in whale waters.

Can you recommend a taxi company from Port Hardy to Port Mc Neill?

If you fly into Port Hardy, you will need to arrange a taxi for the 35-minute drive South to Port McNeill. You can expect to pay about $45-60 CAD for the one-way fare, however rates do vary. We recommend sharing the ride with other members of the tour if you meet one another on the plane (or are on the same flight when departing). Please bring cash to pay the driver. The taxi companies change regularly, but we recommend Waivin Flags Taxi, 1-250-230-7655 and Town Taxi 1-250-949-7877 on the North Island.

What kind of footwear should I bring on my BC tour?

We recommend that you bring (2) pairs of shoes on your BC trip. Packing light for your adventure in the Johnstone Straight is highly recommended and from our experience you really only need 2 good pairs of footwear for your tour. We will supply you with a pair of neoprene booties for the duration of your kayaking tour. In addition to those booties we recommend you bring:

□ One pair sturdy trail shoes, or running shoes, to use for hiking and around camp □ One pair sandals with ankle straps to wear while kayaking, on the beaches, walking around camp, etc. (Chaco, Keens or Crocs are preferred but there are many other brands that are suitable)

Will there be a portable charging station provided on the tour?

We do not carry a portable charging station for the group. You may opt to bring your own small portable charger to charge your phone, camera, headlamp, etc. 

What are your Terms and Conditions?

Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.

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WHALE WATCHING IN TROMSØ

Eco-friendly & ethical whale safaris in norway reviewed, welcome to tromsø.

Tromsø, Norway is the largest city located in the Northern chunk of Norway, and it’s becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination for international travelers who crave a once-in-a-lifestyle travel experience with great food, great people and gorgeous sights to behold.

It’s one of the best places to experience the ocean and its abundance of life; it’s also one of the world’s best undiscovered gems in the form of one of the only places you can go to get as close and personal with whales as you can. As a matter of fact, did you know you can even go swimming with wild orcas in Norway ?

Tromsø is one of the best places to go for whale watching in Norway, and yet there are a lot of people out there who might not have heard of this great Norwegian destination before.

If you’re planning a trip to Tromsø – especially a whale watching trip – there are a few essential things that you should know about the area  and the sights:

• What’s the best season to go whale watching in Tromsø?
• How can you make sure you’re choosing an ethical and eco-friendly whale watching tour?
• How can you prepare for the trip ?
• How can you make sure that you get the best photos and videos of the action?

We have everything you might need to know about preparing for your trip, about Tromsø and about going there for a whale watching safari covered in one place.

Here’s your comprehensive and complete guide for how to plan a great whale watching trip in Tromsø.

Enjoy The Whale Watching Tour by Electric Catamaran

Our pick: eco-friendly & ethical whale watching safari in tromsø.

Get a unique perspective on the majestic humpback and killer whales with an underwater drone and microphone. As they feed in the herring-rich fjords of the Arctic.

Departing Tromsø in the morning, the electric catamaran heads out to where the whales are in time to enjoy the short hours of daylight. On the way you can take in the breathtaking views of frozen landscapes in comfortable, panoramic lounges and multi-level decks.

You’ll find a selection of food and drinks for purchase on board. They use a hybrid engine to reach the whale’s feeding grounds, and as they come near to the whales, the silent electric engine is switched on that allows them to get close without disturbing them.

If the weather allows it, an underwater drone and hydrophone is launched that captures the images and sounds of the whales as they work together to hunt in the herring-rich fjords. The duration of this trip depends on the whales’ location and can therefore range from 6-7 hours.

There’s no guarantee, but they always do their best to see the whales!

Check Availability

About this activity

Highlights – Get a unique perspective on the giants of the sea with underwater footage and sound – Sail silently on a brand new hybrid electric catamaran – Enjoy food and drinks which can be purchased onboard

– The tour is 7-9 hours. Starting time 8:00 AM

– Instant confirmation

Departure Point – Clarion Hotel The Edge, Kaigata 6, 9008 Tromsø, Norway

Live tour guide – Swedish, Danish, English, Norwegian

– English, Norwegian

– WiFi on board – Infoguide on what types of whales and dolphins you might see

– Food & beverages (available to purchase)

Other information – Wheelchair accessible – Restrooms available – Free cancellation up to 24 hours before activity starts – Season is from November to Januari – Easy to reach from city center or airport

Other tours

Best whale watching & wildlife safari for the money.

Explore the Arctic landscapes and see beautiful fjords on a 5 hour cruise. Encounter puffins (in season), cormorants, seals and otters. See small pilot whales and dolphins playing in the water as your learn about the arctic’s ecosystem and culture.

Most Popular Whale Watching Safari

Explore the beauty of the Kvaenangen Fjord by Skjervoy and see orcas and/or humpback whales chasing large amounts of herring fish. Hop into a rigid-inflatable boat (RIB) for a once in a lifetime experience in a small group of between 4-12 people.

Best Private Whale and Orca Watching Tour

Join one of the most popular whale watching tours in Tromsø and spot killer whales and humpback whales in their natural habitat. Jump in a rigid-inflatable boat (RIB) with max 4-12 people and go explore the beautiful nature that Norway has to offer.

Other great wildlife and nature activities in Tromsø

There’s a lot of other things that you can get to do in Tromsø, Norway other than whale watching. Here are a few suggestions for some more great wildlife and nature-related activities you might find in the area, like traditional Norwegian dog sledding or admiring the northern lights of Tromsø :

Chase The Northern Lights in The Norwegian Wilderness

Troms ø is one of the best places in the world you can visit to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. Just like whale watching, time is crucial, and it’s important that you book your stay during the right time of the year.

Meet Reindeer Up Close And Personal

If you’ve ever wanted to meet reindeer, Tromsø is also one of the best places to visit to do it: With the right guide by your side, you can get close enough to feed them and go reindeer sledding: Who hasn’t ever wanted to do that?

Troms ø Self-Driven Husky Dog Sled Daytime Adventure

 There’s also this self-driven husky dog sled daytime adventure for anyone who loves both adventure and nature. Be hands-on with the dogs, be in control of your own sled, and finish it all with a slice of chocolate cake.

Best Hotels in  Tromsø

There are great hotels to stay in within the area of Tromsø – and you can find a great place to stay for the duration of your trip no matter what your budget might be when you get here.

Some of the hotels are five-star (yet a lot more affordable than you might think), and some others might not have an official star-rating, but still be a great place to stay while you connect with the area, the locals and the culture.

Just to help you out, here’s a look at some of the top 4 hotels in Tromsø :

Scandic Ishavshotel

The Ishavshotel is one of the more luxurious options on the list, perfect for an exclusive stay in one of the leading Tromsø hotels: Luxury amenities are included in your stay, and their suites are suited to one or several with the option of room service and access to a balcony for most of the suites. Rooms have very comfortable bedding – and you can expect this option to feel akin to the Marriott anywhere else.  

The Raddison Blu

The Raddison Blu is a 4-star hotel that’s great for anyone visiting Tromsø whether for a few-day family vacation or for business with a whale watching stop-over. They really utilize the theme of blue (without it being over the top) and you can book either a suite or a room with truly incredible and spectacular local views. Any hotel that provides a photo opportunity right from the room is worth it.

Tromsø Camping

Not everyone wants a luxury suite when they’re on vacation: Sometimes you just want a chance to connect with nature, get back to earth and get some rest inbetween activities – and of course, a lot of people just plainly prefer camping above hotel rooms. If any of this describes you or your group, consider Tromsø camping for a back-to-earth stay with a great atmosphere and included amenities.

The Comfort Hotel

Comfort Hotel is another unstarred option that offers you the option of suites or rooms and amenities like wi-fi throughout the hotel: It’s great because it’s classier than your average motel of stop-over, and what you’ll get on the inside is well-described by the word “comfortable.” Great for groups, great for families: Great for anyone who is planning their stay on a budget.

Best Whale Watching Season in Tromsø

One of the first questions most people have about whale watching in Norway is what time of the year to go if you want to see it. Too early or too late in the year means that you are less likely to see the whales passing through – and it’s generally pretty easy to establish their cycle every year, so you just have to make sure that you’re going to the right area at the right time.

Specially for Tromsø, the ideal time to visit the area for whale watching is during November to January  every year. Tours in February and later can be booked here .

November through to the end of January make for the best times of the year to visit Tromsø for whale watching safaris: It’s just the time they naturally pass through their route, much like the great bird or butterfly migration that happens every year in some other parts of the world.

And just like bird or butterfly migrations, you can show up to see it!

If you go in February, you’re likely too late, and any further outside of this time, you might have to catch the whales during the rest of their path if you missed them in Tromsø.

Note: The whale watching season (whales and orca’s) ends at the end of January. The chance that you will encounter whales or orcas after January is very slim. For guests that want to book a tour in February or later, you can experience the wildlife of the Tromsø region by booking a wildlife tour. During this tour you will encounter a wide variety of local wildlife such as sea eagles, guillemots, and eider ducks. Encounter puffins (in season), cormorants, seals, and otters. See small pilot whales and dolphins playing in the water and look to the shoreline to spot reindeer, and take in the flora and fauna of Tromsø in all its diversity. For more information about this tour: Click Here!

Visitors to Tromsø should also know that the whale safari isn’t the only thing to see: Many people also visit the area of Tromsø to experience the food and the incredible sight of the Northern Lights, which can be seen during around September to April every year.

For seeing the Northern Lights, the best is to link up with a reputable tour company who can tell you exactly when the best time might be to go on an organized group tour of the best areas to spot Northern Lights.

It’s an occasionally unpredictable phenomenon of nature: That’s why it’s always better to seek out an expert guide if that’s what you’re coming to Tromsø to see.

How to find an ethical and eco-friendly tour?

Whale watching is an environmental activity: This means that there are responsible ways to enjoy it – and that’s the right way to do it if we all want to continue watching the whales on their trek through the area.

Whale watching also makes for a much safer, better and more environmentally responsible alternative to any other way we have to observe these creatures: Why see them captive at aquariums when you can see them in their natural habitats instead?

It’s a pretty big reason to pick whale watching as your next vacation activity!

Always remember that you have a personal responsibility to the environment (and the ocean) when visiting it: Responsible and ethical whale tour agencies are aware of this, and they are there to answer any questions that you might have about the area.

If you’re planning to go whale watching in Tromsø, one of the first things you’ll need to do is find a tour company or guide to take you through:

The tour company is in charge of a responsible, safe route – and usually owns a relevant sea vessel that can take you out on the ocean for a tour.

When it’s time to choose a guide or tour, make sure you choose an ethically responsible, reputable and eco-friendly tour.

There are many companies in Norway who offer whale watching safaris, but not all of them are on the same level – and yes, there are some companies who aren’t registered, aren’t trained and shouldn’t be out on the water at all.

How can you be sure that the whale watching safari company, tour or tour guide that you choose ends up being an ethical, eco-friendly and responsible one?

Let me show you how:

• Whale watching tour guides and companies have to be registered and licensed to do it. This is the first thing you should look for when going out to find a company that can help you to go whale watching.
• Ask for their registration details – and if they’re not licensed to be out on the water (or they can’t account for the registration papers of their boat), don’t let them take you out on the water.
• Responsible, eco-friendly and ethical tour guides are there to answer questions and, well, guide your tour. Anywhere you find a tour guide that doesn’t quite feel like a tour guide (or isn’t happy to answer the questions you have, or might not seem to know as much as they should) might not be a registered tour guide – and it’s a definite red flag.
• Look for tour guides and companies who have a good reputation: Ask around, ask locals if they know the company or the people and check out their online reviews before you make your final choice of the whale watching company you pick to take you out on the water.

If you’ve found a whale watching company for your tour, be sure to get in touch with them and ask a few of the right questions:

• How long have they been around?
• How often do they do this?

Ask to see their registration – and ask any other questions that you might have in order to feel comfortable.

How to prepare for a whale watching safari?

Any kind of safari requires a little bit of preparation to make sure that you enjoy your experience as much as possible: This is true for a real African safari in the Kruger park, and it’s true for any whale watching you might want to do in Tromsø, Norway.

How do you prepare for a whale watching experience?

Here are a few tips to make sure you have a great time.

• Listen to your guide! Assuming that you picked a reputable, registered and experienced tour company to guide you through your first whale watching experience, one of the most important things you can do is to listen to your guide (and pay attention to the water).Tour guides will almost always know the environment better, and they know what to watch out for as well as what not to do: Rely on their expertise if you want to have your whale watching experience go off without a hitch.
• Keep a healthy distance. Always keep a healthy distance between you and the whales you’re trying to watch. Going too close is risky, dangerous and rude to everyone there – including the whales! This includes touching, feeding and anything more than being allowed to take pictures of the whales from far enough away.
• Don’t go overboard. Including a healthy distance from the whales, it’s also a good idea to keep a healthy distance away from the side of the boat at the same time. While waters are calm most of the time, be prepared for the occasional sway or bump and don’t go overboard when this happens.Yes, it’s a possible danger to fall off the boat: While it’s unlikely that you’ll be hurt by whales, you might knock your head against the side of the boat or any number of other things. Stay safe.
• Never lose personal effects over the side. Other than going straight over the side of the boat yourself, some people have also lost (very expensive) personal effects like their wedding rings, phones, car keys and cameras over the side of the boat during a whale watching excursion.Always be careful, and keep in mind that there are some things you want to lock away (and other things you want to leave home) when heading to whale watching.
• Don’t put phones and other items in back pockets. Back pockets make a very bad place to keep phones and other items when heading out on a boat, and there are many people who still do it. Just don’t. Putting phones and other things in your pockets increases the chances that something will fall out of them.Some things you want to leave at home and other things you might want to secure while you’re on the boat. Just choose any place that’s more secure than your back pocket.
• Don’t try to touch or feed the whales. Other than standing too close or losing your important effects over the side, don’t try to touch or feed the whales: You’d be surprised at what people attending whale watching tours have done in the past – and don’t be the next visitor or tourist that does something stupid. Respect the whales, respect your guide and remember that you’re here for whale watching only.
• Seasick? Try medication – or other whale watching alternatives. Seasickness is a real thing, and a lot of people who have never been on a boat might experience it for the first time going whale watching. It’s painful, unpleasant and everything is usually spinning for a while, but there are measures you can take before you get on the boat to counter seasickness.If these measures don’t do the trick for you, there are other alternatives to whale watching on a boat, including the option of doing it from a deck through the tour companies in Tromsø that offer this.

What do you need to go on a trip?  

There’s an old expression that says, “You don’t show up empty-handed to a whale watching trip.” Well, actually there isn’t – but it’s still true if you’re visiting an area like Tromsø for whale watching. There are a few things you might want to think about or bring along for the trip – and as part of your ultimate guide on enjoying whale watching, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s what you might need.

• Appropriate clothing One of the first things that you should keep in mind for your visit to Tromsø is what clothing to pack – and what you’re going to wear on your day out. A lot of tourists accidentally plan for colder weather  during moderate seasons, or the other way around. A simple check of the weather report for the time you’re going to Tromsø can save you all of this time and effort.
• Seasickness medicine Seasickness medicine is available over-the-counter, and if you aren’t sure whether or not you need it, the answer is probably going to be that you might. You don’t have to let something like seasickness take away from your whale watching experience when you can take preventative measures for it: Just don’t forget them at home, and take them just before you intend on going. Check with your doctor if you have any type of medical condition, or if you’re taking other medications with it.
• Cameras Always remember your camera when you’ve booked a whale watching trip, and always remember accessories like your charger: Again, you would be surprised at just how many people book a trip and forget essentials like this. Sure, you can use your smartphone to take pictures, but yes, there’s a risk of dropping it into the water.
• Waterproof things Most of the things you plan on taking along for your whale watching trip should ideally be waterproof – including at least one good waterproof jacket. (If you’re not familiar with the water, then it might be a better idea to wear a lifejacket instead.)
• Backup battery life If you plan on going anywhere (and not just Tromsø in Norway!) it’s a great idea to keep backup battery life with you at all times: Emergencies happen, and you want to be prepared for anything even if it might not happen. Keep a few fully-charged power banks with you – although ideally, not out on the water.
• Sun protection Protection against the sun is important: This is true for the body and true for the eyes. To prepare properly for a trip, make sure you’re guarded against the worst UV rays with the use of a decent skin cream together with wearing sunglasses. Especially while you’re out on the water, the sun can sometimes get to be harsh.

Whale watching photography & video tips

If you’re planning on going to Tromsø for whale watching, it’s almost certain that you’re going to take photographs of the experience, too.

Everyone on holiday wants to make sure that the ones they take are good photographs: But not everyone is a professional photographer, and not everyone has more than a smartphone to do it.

Use these tips to make sure you’re still getting good snaps of your vacation.

• Don’t get too close Yes, this has already been said, but it’s even more true when you’re holding a camera: Don’t get in too close, and you won’t lose your camera, phone or fall off the boat.
• Remove the flash, please How would you feel if someone stopped your taxi to work just to shove a camera through the window and flash photograph of your face? Turn the flash off when taking pictures of your whale watching experience: It’s just nice.
• Multiple-photo mode – it’s there, use it! Your phone or camera likely has multiple-photo mode. It’s a good idea to use it when taking pictures of the whales: If not, then you might very well miss a great photo opportunity just because you were waiting for the device to wake up between images.
• Backup memory cards and/or backing up to cloud Technology allows for the luxury of being able to backup all of your images straight to the cloud: Where not, backup memory cards can be essential. Many holiday photos have been lost because they weren’t backed up somewhere else: Don’t make that mistake yourself!

Protect Your Trip »

The 9 best whale watching tours near seattle.

Experience the whales and other wildlife of the Pacific Northwest on these tours.

Best Whale Watching Tours Near Seattle

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Whales are one of the best natural sights to see during a Seattle trip.

The water off the northwestern coast of Washington affords ample opportunities to see a wide array of wildlife, including orcas and other whales. The following tours, which U.S. News determined to be the best based on the input of both travel experts and tour-takers, will take you to the ideal viewing locations. Not all of these trips leave from the Seattle area, and some may be best suited for daytrips. Most tour options depart from the San Juan Islands, which sit north of Seattle. To get to the islands, you'll need to drive about 90 miles to Anacortes, Washington, then jump on a ferry. Whale watching in this area generally occurs year-round, with peak viewing opportunities from May to October.

Note: Some whale watching trips have minimum age requirements.

Outer Island Excursions

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $79 Duration: 3.5 hours

Cruise at speeds up to 50 mph (depending on the boat) as you search for whales, porpoises, seals, otters, birds and more. Along with the sights, passengers praise the funny, knowledgeable crew.

Tours depart daily from Orcas Island (in the San Juan Islands) at 10:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. beginning Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend and at 1 p.m. in spring (mid-April through May) and fall (September to mid-November). Tickets cost $109 for adults, $99 for seniors 65 and older, $79 for youths 3 to 17 and $10 for infants (ages 2 and younger). Custom and private excursions are available year-round with multiple departure points from mainland locations and other islands. Outer Island Excursions also conducts charter fishing trips and kayak outings.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

San Juan Safaris – Classic Whale Watch and Wildlife Tour

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $89 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

This tour concentrates on the resident orcas that spend half the year around the San Juan Islands (though other animals are likely to be seen as well). The onboard naturalists win praise from reviewers for their knowledge and amiability.

Boats depart daily from Friday Harbor near the ferry landing on San Juan Island at 12:30 p.m. from early March through October. In addition, sunset tours that depart at 5:30 p.m. are available from late May into mid-August. Tours last from three to four hours. Tickets start at $125 for adults and $89 for children 2 to 17. (Infants ride for free.)

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Courtesy of Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours – Western Explorer II

Price: Adults from $149; kids from $139 Duration: 3 hours

The San Juan Islands afford ample opportunities to see a variety of whale species, including orcas, humpbacks and minkes, as well as porpoises, sea lions, seals and various birds. The 3-hour tour on the Western Explorer II takes 25 travelers on an aluminum boat that can travel up to 40 mph. A unique trait of this tour boat is that it's powered by low-sound water jets, reducing the vessel's underwater sound footprint. A captain and naturalist guide each trip. Previous passengers found the experience informative and fun.

The tour is offered April through October at 12:30 p.m. During the summer months (May through September), tours take place at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tickets are $149 for adults and $139 for kids ages 7 to 12. Insulated two-piece suits for each guest are included in the price. This tour is not recommended for kids younger than 6, guests in late-term pregnancy or those with back or neck injuries. If no whales are spotted, Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours will provide a voucher for a future outing. The company also offers private and sea kayaking tours.

View & Book Tickets: Western Prince Whale & Wildlife Tours

Sea Quest Expeditions

Price: From $99 Duration: 3 to 6 hours

Enjoy a close-range view of the marine life that surrounds the San Juan Islands on a full- or half-day kayak outing. In addition to orca, gray and humpback whales, porpoises and sea lions can also be observed in this area. Reviewers consistently call the tour guides exceptionally knowledgeable about the local flora and fauna. However, others expressed disappointment that they did not see more whales.

Trips take place from March through December. Full-day trips last about six hours; half-day trips generally run three hours (including travel time to the launch point and instructions on kayak use). The shorter outings start at 8 a.m. and range from $99 to $129, while the full-day trips commence at 11 a.m. and range from $119 to $149. Sea Quest Expeditions also offers nighttime kayaking tours and multiday kayaking/camping combination trips in Washington, as well as tours operating out of Alaska and Mexico.

View & Book Tickets: Sea Quest Expeditions

Bart Rulon | Courtesy of Puget Sound Express

Puget Sound Express – Guaranteed Whale Watching Tours

Price: Adults from $145; kids from $105 Duration: 4 to 5 hours

Departing from Edmonds (about 20 miles north of Seattle), these four- to five-hour boat rides take passengers to the San Juan Islands to see the whales and other sea creatures that inhabit the Salish Sea. Puget Sound Express' boats feature indoor seating and outdoor viewing decks, as well as a cafe that sells snacks, which tour-takers tend to appreciate. Passengers describe the crew as knowledgeable and personable.

Tours are offered from the end of April through December. You can expect to depart at 9:30 or 11:30 a.m. or 2:30 p.m., but note that these times vary with the seasons. These trips are suitable for all ages; tickets start at $145 for adults and $105 for children ages 2 to 10. (Infants cruise free of charge.) Specialty tours focusing on gray whales are also offered in March and April.

View & Book Tickets: Puget Sound Express

Maya's Legacy Whale Watching

Price: From $149 Duration: 3 to 8 hours

Maya's Legacy Whale Watching is ideal for nature lovers, as the company takes a "whole ecosystem approach" to its outings – meaning you'll learn about more than just whales on this excursion. Tours, which are available year-round, explore the Salish Sea in the vicinity of Seattle and Vancouver Island , British Columbia. Travelers typically enjoy ample wildlife sightings and appreciate the friendly, knowledgeable crew.

Boats leave from two San Juan Island locations: downtown Friday Harbor near the Washington State Ferry landing and Snug Harbor Resort on the island's west side. Tours vary in length and are priced accordingly, starting at $149 for three-hour tours, $199 for four-hour tours and $299 for full-day trips (six to eight hours). Multiple start times are available and options vary by season. Maya's Legacy Whale Watching specializes in small-group outings; the number of participants may range from six to 16, depending on the particular excursion and the customized vessel used. Private charters are also offered.

View & Book Tickets: Maya's Legacy Whale Watching

San Juan Excursions – Whale Watching Tours

Price: Adults from $125; kids from $115 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Cruise on a converted U.S. Navy search and rescue boat on this three- to four-hour journey amid the San Juan Islands. Tourgoers praise the crews for being exceptionally accommodating and dedicated to finding whales.

The 65-foot boat, which features indoor and outdoor viewing areas, leaves from near Friday Harbor's ferry terminal at 9 a.m., noon and 1:30 p.m. daily from early April through mid-October. Tickets cost about $125 for adults, $115 for children ages 3 to 12 and $95 for infants. If no orcas are spotted on a given trip, patrons receive free passes for a second chance at seeing the whales on a different tour. Private charters and kayak tours are also available.

View & Book Tickets: San Juan Excursions

Crystal Seas Kayaking

Price: From $125 Duration: 3 to 7 hours

Rather than using motorized vessels, this tour has whale watchers paddle themselves in kayaks. Past patrons describe the observable wildlife as abundant and the guides as personable and entertaining. What's more, no prior kayaking experience is necessary.

Tours are available daily from April through October. Tickets start at $125 for three-hour and sunset tours and $219 for full-day tours lasting seven hours. The price includes use of all kayaking gear, as well as round-trip transportation from Crystal Seas Kayaking's office in Friday Harbor to the starting point at Snug Harbor. Trips depart several times a day beginning at 9 a.m. and continuing hourly until about 6:30 p.m. from March through September. From September to mid-October, short tours are offered between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., while full-day tours depart at 11 a.m. The company also has multiday and family tours.

View & Book Tickets: Crystal Seas Kayaking

San Juan Outfitters

Acquaint yourself with orca, humpback and minke whales, among many land and sea creatures, on this tour around the San Juan Islands. The 35-foot boat used on this family-friendly outing can accommodate up to 24 passengers and features a 360-degree viewing deck. Tour-takers consistently call the naturalists and guides informative, professional and amusing.

Three- to four-hour trips depart from both San Juan Island's Roche Harbor and Friday Harbor. The Roche Harbor tour leaves at 2 p.m. Thursday through Sunday between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The tour from Friday Harbor departs at 12:30 p.m. between March and October, and an additional tour runs at 5:30 p.m. between Memorial Day and mid-August. Tickets cost $125 for adults and $89 for children ages 2 to 17; infant tickets are free. San Juan Outfitters also conducts kayaking tours.

View & Book Tickets: San Juan Outfitters

Frequently Asked Questions

Whale enthusiasts can see orcas and gray and humpback whales year-round. Orcas usually travel through the San Juan Islands from May through October.

For whale watching in Seattle, you should dress in layers. While some tours may provide a raincoat or jacket for guests, it is wise to bring your own coat or jacket in case. Gloves, scarves and waterproof, closed-toed shoes are also ideal.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Seattle Tours
• The Best Seattle Boat Tours
• The Best Hotels in Seattle
• The Best Things to Do in Seattle

Tags: Travel , Tours , Vacations , Seattle

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Whale watching in Northern Norway

At Arctic Whale Tours, we strive to provide our guests with a safe, informative and inspirational day out at sea, while respecting the wildlife we have the privilege to see and learn about. Our crew are passionate professionals, who will do their utmost best to give you memories for a lifetime. *Next whale safari April 14th in Andenes *Next whale safari June 1st in Stø

Spring/Summer safari in Andenes -  April-September ‍ Summer safari in Stø, Vesterålen - June-August Winter safari in Tromsø - November-January

Summer Safari (Stø)

Whale, bird and seal watching combined in one full day adventure in Stø, Vesterålen.

Spring/Summer Safari (Andenes)

Half day whale watching safari in beautiful Andenes, Vesterålen.

Winter safari

Whale watching in the raw beauty of the northern winter in Tromsø.

Book your trip online today or get in touch if you have any questions.

TripAdvisor overview

Our vision Arctic Whale Tours’ main goal is to provide our visitors with a unique opportunity to observe marine animals in their natural surroundings and to spread knowledge about their behaviour and biology. Our aim is to operate our business in a sustainable and responsible way in order to ensure the welfare of the animals and to minimise our impact on nature. We strive to offer our guests the best service and an unforgettable nature experience – we want you to feel as a part of our team. Comfortably sized ships, friendly and experienced naturalist guides, and a wildlife friendly approach are examples of what to expect from a tour with us.

How killer whales move around Australia now better understood, thanks to citizen science project

Killer whales have long been a challenge for researchers, particularly off Australia's south-eastern coast.

But over the past three decades, data on sightings collected by the public and logged by citizen science project Killer Whales Australia is helping to create a better understanding of the elusive apex predators.

The project, based at the Dolphin Research Institute in Hastings, Victoria, started in 1994 as the Southern Ocean Orca Database, with marine scientist David Donnelly taking the reins in 2000.

The team collaborates with universities and works with colleagues in Western Australia to create a nationwide understanding of how killer whales move around the country's waters.

"I had a passion for marine mammals and followed that as a career option, just building knowledge as I went along," Mr Donnelly said.

"Killer whales just didn't have much attention at the time in terms of understanding them — how many are there and where are they?

"They are an apex predator so they are important to the environment and I just felt like there was a gap there that needed to be filled.

"I'm doing my best from day to day to try and help to fill that with collaboration with a lot of people, which is what it's going to take to get to where we get a better understanding."

Mr Donnelly said the project relies almost entirely on citizen science gathered by the public.

He said the sightings helped to build a database to work out the "whys, whens and whos of killer whales along our coastline".

"If we're lucky enough to get photos with those reports, we're able to build things like fin identification catalogues, which allows us to identify individual animals," he said.

One animal that has popped up in waters around southern Australia for years is known as Bent Tip.

"Bent Tip is a whale we have known for quite a long time now — we think we might've known him since maybe 2013," Mr Donnelly said.

"Now that he's a mature animal he's not going to change much more … so we're going to see more and more of Bent Tip as he progresses through his life.

"More often than not now, if a killer whale pod is spotted anywhere in the south-east Australian region, we typically know who they are.

"That indicates to us that we're starting to get to a bit of a threshold of how many animals actually transit through the coastal areas of this part of the world."

Citizen scientists helping research

Isabella Reeves is a PhD candidate at Flinders University in Adelaide and is part of the Cetacean Research Centre, studying the genetics of killer whales in Australasia.

She said without the database information collected by citizen scientists, research on killer whales would not have got as far as it had.

"Within Australia, we wouldn't actually understand a lot of the ecology and distribution without this citizen science data," Ms Reeves said.

After a great white shark carcass washed up near Portland in Victoria's south-west, researchers have used data from Killer Whales Australia to investigate whether orcas were responsible.

"There's a lot of predation work going on at the moment about what they're eating," Ms Reeves said.

"Understanding the species they may be eating, when we don't see them a lot, is actually super helpful, and of course we can't be on the water everywhere up and down the east coast.

"We have to rely quite heavily on these dedicated citizen scientists that are actually making a difference in how we're understanding these killer whales."

More sighting data needed

While the data gathered by Killer Whales Australia has already proven vital for researchers, Mr Donnelly said there was still a need to grow, particularly along SA's south-east coast.

"Along the south-west coast of Victoria, we get a lot of data from there, we've got a lot of very dedicated people who enjoy watching whales," he said.

"The south-east of South Australia is a little bit different. We get much less, but what we do get is validation that some of the animals known from the east coast are venturing into south-east South Australia.

"Just a couple of weeks ago we had one animal that moved from Port MacDonnell [in SA] across to the east and [was] seen the following day in Portland [Victoria].

"Only with people reporting that information and a catalogue of fin identification images can we start to tell those stories."

While Mr Donnelly has been leading the project for more than 20 years, he is excited to see a new generation of scientists emerging.

"I look forward to sitting in my retirement home reading about what my proteges are now doing with the data," he said.

But before then, Mr Donnelly has one more goal in mind.

"On the list of things that I need to do in the next little while is to just try and locate some killer whales that I can view through my own camera lens," he said.

"If it doesn't happen, I think we still have this fantastic dataset that's going to help to inform on what I think's a very important marine species."

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Close encounters with curious Juneau killer whale a reminder of city’s wild nature

On a recent sunny Friday in Juneau, Lindsey Bloom was eager to get outside and enjoy the spring weather. 

“I was like ‘Okay, I’m just going to go for a little paddleboard. I’m gonna just watch the sun sparkle on the water and that’s gonna like light me up from just a day of emails,” Bloom said.  “I mean it just seemed so … just so benign.”

At Bloom’s home on Lena Loop Road, the ocean is practically part of the backyard. She goes paddle boarding often, but this particular afternoon was far from routine.

A few minutes into her paddle, she spotted a pod of orcas — four or five of them — out on the horizon. She took a video to send to her parents. But then she spotted something in the water.

“I looked down, and I saw this white color coming up from under. And I was like, ‘Huh, a dead halibut is floating belly up under my paddleboard,’” Bloom said. “And then her fin sliced up out of the water, and she exhaled.”

Before she knew what was happening, a large female killer whale lifted Bloom’s paddleboard up out of the water.

“And at that moment it was like terror,” Bloom said.

In Juneau, people share the land with bears, eagles, whales and more. It’s one of the reasons people love living here, but earlier this month, a handful of close encounters with a curious killer whale reminded people of the city’s wildness.

As her board was bobbing, Bloom stood frozen with fear as the whale circled her a half dozen times, diving down under her and then twisting around to look up at the surface. Bloom says she made eye contact with the young orca.

“And then I started talking to her, I was like ‘I have kids. Please go away.’”

Eventually, the whale did go away and Bloom was able to make it to shore safely, though she was shaken up.

Later that afternoon, the whale sidled up to Matt Musslewhite’s red skiff. He was sailing near Point Louisa, just a few hundred yards down the shoreline. When he saw the whale’s black fins glistening on the surface of the water, he cut the engine to let it safely pass.

“Instead she just turned and charged right up to me and ran her dorsal fin down the side of the boat, and circled round the boat a couple of times,” Musslewhite said. “Then (she) took off to join the rest of her pack.”

Musslewhite said the whale was gentle.

“I think she might have been a teenager, a curious teenager just coming to check out my boat,” he said.

Marine Mammal Specialist Suzie Teerlink with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said there were at least three reports of close encounters with this orca, who was in fact a teenager, on April 26. But no one has been able to identify the specific whale or the pod it belongs to.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Traci Joy Ferguson Hayes (@juneaujoy)

In a  social media video  taken by another paddler, the whale splashes around, making circles before poking her head out and spraying from her blowhole. 

Teerlink said that most of the time killer whales will keep their distance when they come across people.

“At the same time, they’re really smart, really curious animals,” she said. “They’re at home in their environment and if something strikes their curiosity they might push that envelope.”

There are no local reports of killer whales pursuing humans to hurt them. But there have been reports of pods attacking boats in  other parts of the world. 

Teerlink says it’s best for both whales and people to keep our distance.

“We don’t want killer whales, you know, individuals to get too comfortable going up to people to get too comfortable going up to people,” she said.

So if you encounter a whale yourself, the best thing to do is move away as quickly as possible.

Orcas tend to migrate over large areas relatively fast. So while they’re pretty common in Juneau, the curious teenage whale and her pod have probably left the area by now.

Bloom said learning more about orca’s curious nature has calmed her fears a bit. She feels there’s an inherent stigma around the meat-eating marine mammals, which made her more afraid.

“We call them killer whales,” Bloom said. “Why do we have to call them that? Because it makes them scarier than they need to be.”

And in the week since the close encounter, she’s come to appreciate it, in a way.

“This is so Alaska,” Bloom said.  “All you gotta do is walk out your front door, and it’s like epic.”

But for now, she plans to paddleboard on Auke Lake instead.

Anna Canny, KTOO - Juneau

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Stormy Daniels concludes her testimony as Trump trial continues

Whale calf covered in killer whale bites washes ashore on the oregon coast.

PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — The carcass of a gray whale calf covered in killer whale bite marks washed up onto Tish-A-Tang Beach in Bandon on May 6.

Oregon State University Stranding Program Manager Jim Rice told KOIN 6 News that the calf “clearly succumbed to killer whale predation.”

PHOTOS: Vista House in partial disrepair as historic building celebrates 106th birthday

Rice analyzed the beached carcass on Wednesday and took photos of the gruesome wounds that the calf suffered during the killer whale attack.

The Seaside Aquarium always encourages beachgoers to keep a safe distance from beached whales as marine mammals can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans and their pets.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.

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'Killer whale predation': Gray whale washes up on Oregon beach covered in tooth marks

A deceased gray whale calf with tooth marks all over its body was found on a beach in Oregon this week.

Jim Rice, a program manager with the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network, told USA TODAY he was notified Tuesday of the 20-foot gray whale calf that washed ashore at Tish-A-Tang Beach in Bandon, Oregon.

Bandon is located in southern Oregon along the Pacific Ocean, about 140 miles southwest of Eugene.

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The calf had widespread tooth marks over its body and "major trauma to the lower jaw and the underside of the body," which Rice said indicated that it had recently died of severe injuries caused by "killer whale predation."

What do whales eat? Inside the diet of blue, humpback, sperm and killer whales

What is a gray whale?

Gray whales are large whales , up to 49 feet long and weighing about 90,000 pounds. They have one of the longest migration patterns of any mammal, often traveling 10,000 to 14,000 miles round trip.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, they earned the nickname " devil fish " because of their aggressive response when harpooned by hunters. They were hunted nearly to extinction, but thanks to commercial whaling moratoriums and conservation efforts, they are now a protected species.

They mainly eat amphipod crustaceans, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and their only major predators are humans and killer whales.

Where are gray whales found?

Although they were once common throughout the Northern Hemisphere, gray whales are now mainly found in the North Pacific Ocean, according to NOAA.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Killer whale predation': Gray whale washes up on Oregon beach covered in tooth marks

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