Subantarctic Islands

Explore the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: Windswept & Wildlife Rich Subantarctic Islands

The Subantarctic Islands are tiny havens for some of the most abundant and unique wildlife on the planet. They lie in the cool temperate or Subantarctic Zone to the south and east of New Zealand in the great southern ocean that encircles Antarctica. This is a windswept and at times forbidding swath of sea, surprising in its fecundity.

The Subantarctic Islands are comprised of six groups: the Bounty Islands, the Antipodes, the Snares, the Auckland Islands, Campbell Island and Macquarie Island. Flora and fauna are densely concentrated here: the number of indigenous plants and seabirds found in the Subantarctic Islands is far greater than that found on similar groups in the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

It is little wonder that these islands of the Subantarctic are all Nature Reserves and World Heritage sites. As such, the New Zealand and Australian Governments that administer them afford the Subantarctic Islands the highest protection. Tourism is allowed, but only under special license, and numbers are restricted to minimise impact and to ensure a world class wilderness and wildlife experience. The Subantarctic Islands not only play an important role in the Southern Ocean ecosystem - they also have a rich human history. From their discovery 200 years ago, they were exposed to an era of exploitation. In time we began to understand their true worth and treasure them for their intrinsic value as wild and beautiful places. Visiting them is a pleasure and a privilege. You will not be disappointed.

If you’re after a small ship or expedition cruise to the Subantarctic Islands, talk to Wild Earth Travel team and we will help you find a trip of a lifetime. Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 20 years experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe. Our team are all passionate expedition & small cruise ship travellers and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences. When listening to travellers requests we use this unique understanding and knowledge to match you with the best small ship options for you.