Orca Watching 101 is something our family and team have instilled into our Orca ethics and with nearly a decade of time spent with the Bremer Bay Orca we understand what is most important to them and how they work in the waters off Bremer Bay. Orca live in a different world to ours, life in the deep blue is different and we must immerse ourselves into that world to become like the Orca. Our father was a Pearl Diver for decades and his experience and knowledge of working in the submarine world brings a unique perspective and connection to our whale watching skillset.
Energy Levels
Working with the Orca requires a consistent observation of their energy levels and changes throughout the day. If they are resting then so are we, if they are on the surge our energy can increase with them but should never exceed theirs. In this way we ensure the Orca are always in charge of the interaction and this builds trust, allowing us to follow our motto of observing and not influencing behaviour. Energy is everything to an Orca and they are always conserving energy, locating an energy (food) source or spending energy in the hunt or play. Respecting the energy of our Orca and understanding it is vital to moving as one with them effectively.
Vessel Movement
Our vessel is a key component of how we spend time with the Orca so how we move is a fundamental element of how the Orca view us. Consistent patterns of movements, gentle gear changes and astern movements avoided at all times is important. Orca do not have a fear or apprehension of vessels, but if they operate incorrectly around them then that can influence their behaviour. Moving like an Orca is a big part of how our vessel is driven throughout our time with them, it is all based on energy and rhythm.
Sound Footprint
The main sense for Orca is sound, our noise footprint can be controlled through managing our vessel movements to match in with the energy levels of the Orca. Encouraging the Orca to react or approach by shouting, whistling or clapping is interfering with a very intelligent creature and an attempt to influence their behaviour. Orca are naturally curious individuals who do not need any encouragement to approach us, if they wish to do so they will on their own terms. It reverts back to our motto of observe and not influence, it is at the core of everything we do when working with wild cetaceans.
Orca watching 101 is a simple understanding of how wild Orca live their lives and how we must attempt to mimic their behaviour in every way. If you want to be welcomed into any family or community it is best to learn their customs, culture and do your best to become like them as we do with the Orca of Bremer Bay. The matriarchs of each family have taught us much in nearly a decade and 7,000 hours of working with them but there is still much more yet to be learnt. Our motivation is to continue growing our knowledge and understanding of our Orca family whom we love dearly. The family pods we work with will continue to teach us everyday and grow our elite team onboard who continue to strive for the very best Orca ethics when working with our apex predators. Our family and team hope to welcome you onboard soon to experience the difference when travelling with Whale Watch Western Australia, the Bremer Bay Orca Experts.
