Awesome Orca of Bremer Bay were observed today as Giovanni and family enjoyed a relaxing and social time together as they welcomed us into their pod. It was a beautiful day to be out on the water and as we arrived in The Patch all eyes began to scan for the distinctive signs of Orca activity. There was an increase in birdlife as we slowed and searched the area carefully when the call went out for Orca on the starboard side, 200 meters ahead and closing in the distance. The next surfacing had big male Giovanni heading straight fur us with his family close by as they were spread and foraging while moving through the hunting grounds calmly. It was beautiful to watch as they steadily looked for breakfast before regrouping and moving out together with the family all coming together around us happily. Tiny calf Gabriel made a beeline with mum Akama to the bow as they were in a very playful mood today.
It has amazed us how much Gabriel has grown in only three weeks and how much more relaxed Akama is as she settles into the routine and rhythm of motherhood. It is beautiful to watch and the family was especially relaxed and social throughout our time with them today. The family pods we have the opportunity of working with over nearly a decade now have grown a wonderful trust of us and we treasure the relationship we have with them all. Working with an apex predator demands discipline, patience and dedication which our family and magnificent, elite crew strives to achieve during every interaction. The result is a unique relationship with wild Orca who trust us and happily go about their day as we follow our motto to observe and not influence behaviour. Giovanni stole the show today with his impressive size and tranquil personality clear to see as he travelled with us for most of the day as we followed his lead. A decent meal was not captured although the Orca looked hard today with less food around at the moment but we are hoping for a shift in that prey availability soon. A big shoutout to Gabriel who joined us today with his family and has recently celebrated his birthday. It was very special to have the opportunity of seeing Orca calf Gabriel today and the Orca family must have known you were onboard for the birthday celebration! Wishing them well for their afternoon ahead as they slipped into rest mode we had much fun on the journey home with plenty of bubbles and smiles all round after our time with the awesome Orca of Bremer Bay.
