Blue Planet III Bremer Canyon unfolded today in picturesque weather as Orca, Sperm Whales, Offshore Bottlenose Dolphins and an exciting sighting of False Killer Whales made for an incredible day. Albatross and Shearwaters soared as we were escorted out to The Patch in their company as leaping pilchards cascaded across the waters surface. A special day ahead was set as we enjoyed the company of the worlds largest toothed predator, the incredible Sperm Whale. Today we had the opportunity to observe four different individuals who were all extremely relaxed and welcomed us to their surface preparation for their next deep dive before lifting enormous flukes high and disappearing to the depths below. One of the most beautiful moments to observe in the animal kingdom is the tail dive of a Sperm Whale and today we had four perfect examples.
Season 2021 still has surprises as for the first time this season False Killer Whales (Pseudorca crassidens) were sighted as they surged with excitement. It was a joy to observe this infrequently sighted species in these waters, their movements are not as predictable as other cetaceans so time with them is a privilege. Powerful and sleek movers, the Pseudorca are top hunters and love targeting pelagic fish and squid species which the Bremer Canyons are renowned for providing in enormous quantities. Playful and relaxed as they surrounded us, we had well over one hundred individuals as the fun level was about to step up a notch as Offshore Bottlenose Dolphins joined in with the activities. It was great to observe the Bottlenose happily travelling with the Pseudorca and the large pod of 150+ cetaceans took over an enormous area of the Southern Ocean which was a very beautiful sight. The name False Killer Whale may be used to describe this species due to their similarities to the Orca but there is nothing false about these creatures, they are genuinely beautiful and charismatic individuals who bring the ocean to life with their energy and enthusiasm.
Just to make sure the Pseudorca didn’t completely steal the show, B-Slice and his family pod reclaimed their stretch of the feeding grounds as the Orcinus Orca moved through with confidence. Relaxed and playful as the family interacted amongst each other and approached curiously. The loud bellow of B-Slice as he exhaled emanated through the still afternoon as the rest of the family pod greeted the arrival of big male Giovani. Newest pod member Millie raced towards us excitedly as the family pod regrouped and were ready for their evening ahead. Champagne on the beautiful afternoon cruise back towards Bremer Bay Boat Harbour was the perfect way to celebrate the magnificent wildlife we had the privilege of observing today. Our Blue Planet III Bremer Canyon day was completed with wonderful Australian Sea Lions as they shuffled around Glasse Island to find the perfect resting spot. Graeme Drew and his team completed a busy day with some cheeky pilchards within their newly stitched net as full bellied seabirds rested around the Ricki Jo. One of the most diverse and remarkable places on the planet to view wildlife and today was a perfect reflection of this magnificent place and some of the special creatures who reside here.
