Will Gerard was visiting family in Pelorus Sound for Christmas and decided to take a swim while out on a fishing trip.
While swimming he spotted what he thought were signs of dolphins and had his family pass him his waterproof camera.
“I’ve always loved filming dolphins following our boat when we’re out fishing, but have always wanted to swim with them. When I saw the dorsal fins and realised it was an orca I was so excited I didn’t have time to be afraid and get out the water,” he said.
“I know you are not supposed to swim with them, but it just happened so quickly and I knew this would be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me,” Gerard said.
The orcas didn’t seem bothered by his presence so he swam slowly after them and another large orca approached him.
“I didn’t expect that, there was a calf with the pod and I think the big male came to make sure they were safe.”
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Image courtesy of Thomas Hubauer, CC BY 2.0
