Orca after dinner one evening

This encounter happened, as most do, in the least expected time of the day. We had just finished our first day of expeditions on the South Shetland Islands and we transiting in the Bransfield strait towards the Antarctic Peninsula. As the expedition team and guests were enjoying dinner, I had a feeling that there could be some orca around, as there usually is in the area we were currently transiting.

I sat down with some guests from Australia and ate quite quickly, as I wanted to get to the bridge and scan for some wildlife due to the amazing weather and lighting conditions. As the dinner progressed, they mentioned to me that all they wanted to see were orca, which is a lot of peoples' desire when they venture to this part of the world on an expedition. I kind of laughed it off and told them I would do my best. Shortly after this I asked to be excused, as I was planning on going to the bridge to search for animals and I said I was going to find them some orca, which was kind of a joke but I was also quite determined to back it up.

Within about 15 mins of being on the bridge scanning the horizon small little puffs of golden light started to appear and then dissipate, which due to the lighting was indeed blows from numerous whales. Based on the size, shape and number of the blows I knew it was definitely orca.

The expedition leader was informed, as was the captain and the ship began to reposition in order to get a closer look at these apex predators. It was a great encounter that lasted just about an hour with the orca turning and swimming under the vessel numerous times. It was incredible, especially, with the lighting that gave my photos just made the encounter all that more impressive.

Still can't believe I found them after I said I would... just a lucky day for me!