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.

Wild Earth Travel is owned and operated by expedition leaders with over 30 years' experience voyaging, leading and creating expeditions all over the globe.

• We Are Travellers. Our team of small ship cruise specialists is very well travelled. We have led small ship cruises all over the world and experienced the most unique and fascinating corners of the planet, and we love sharing our experiences with you!

• Unbiased Advice. Our team are all passionate expedition and small cruise ship travellers, and our knowledge and stories come from our own personal experiences, which we then use to match you with the best small ship options for you.

• Largest Choice Providers. Our collection of small ship cruises is constantly growing, we now feature over 1200 cruises aboard more than 80 small ships. Our insider knowledge of the industry means there is barely a ship or a destination worldwide that we haven't experienced.

• Convenience Matters. We offer you the ability to pay in the original currency of the ship operator, meaning that you won't pay more in currency buffers. You can be assured that you are in safe hands as our team of specialists guide you through the entire booking process.

• Personalised Service. As you prepare for your cruise, we will be in touch to ensure you have everything you need, from packing lists and suggested reading lists to pre- and post- transfers and accommodation. For some cruises, there may be the option to add on extra activities.

• We know this region! The team at Wild Earth Travel has been at the forefront of tourism in the Subantarctic Islands and regularly visit the region. Our knowledge of the Islands is exceptional, just ask us!

If you'd like to learn about some of our other Subantarctic itineraries, please contact us. You may also be interested other New Zealand cruising destinations including the Chatham Islands or Fiordland and Stewart Island.

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