NZ & Australia, New Zealand
Birding Down Under aboard Heritage Adventurer
Listen to the names: Snares, Bounty, Antipodes, Auckland, Campbell, Macquarie and Chatham Islands. They are music to the ears of nature lovers, adventurers and birders alike. Apart from the Chathams, these islands are probably more isolated now than they were when they were discovered in the late 1700s and early 1800s and were regularly visited by sealers, whalers and government steamers searching for castaway sailors. Opportunities to visit these islands are rare. This expedition is one of rare opportunities to explore all of these islands.
The islands occupy the tempestuous latitudes of the Roaring Forties and the Furious Fifties, but they are also known as the Albatross Latitudes and with good reason. Ten of the world’s albatross species breed in the region; five of them nowhere else. In fact, this region hosts the most diverse collection of seabirds in the world. More than 40 species breed here – that is at least 11 per cent of the entire world’s seabird species.
With the exception of the Chathams, the islands are all designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and are afforded the highest conservation status and protection by the Australian and New Zealand governments, so passage to their shores is not granted lightly. There are also islands that we visit within the Chatham Islands’ Archipelago with similar status and protection.
As one of the greatest natural history voyages on the planet this expedition has huge appeal to pelagic enthusiasts, penguin fanatics, those interested in island endemics and photographers. People interested in islands and island ecology, botany, geology and photographers and those with an adventurous spirit have enjoyed this trip immensely, as have those interested in the history of southern ocean discovery and exploration.
This is one of our ‘signature expeditions’ which has operated annually for more than 20 years, so you will benefit from the knowledge and expertise gained over that time.
The islands occupy the tempestuous latitudes of the Roaring Forties and the Furious Fifties, but they are also known as the Albatross Latitudes and with good reason. Ten of the world’s albatross species breed in the region; five of them nowhere else. In fact, this region hosts the most diverse collection of seabirds in the world. More than 40 species breed here – that is at least 11 per cent of the entire world’s seabird species.
With the exception of the Chathams, the islands are all designated UNESCO World Heritage sites and are afforded the highest conservation status and protection by the Australian and New Zealand governments, so passage to their shores is not granted lightly. There are also islands that we visit within the Chatham Islands’ Archipelago with similar status and protection.
As one of the greatest natural history voyages on the planet this expedition has huge appeal to pelagic enthusiasts, penguin fanatics, those interested in island endemics and photographers. People interested in islands and island ecology, botany, geology and photographers and those with an adventurous spirit have enjoyed this trip immensely, as have those interested in the history of southern ocean discovery and exploration.
This is one of our ‘signature expeditions’ which has operated annually for more than 20 years, so you will benefit from the knowledge and expertise gained over that time.
Guests should make their way to
the designated hotel where we
will spend the first night of the
expedition. This evening there will
be an informal get-together at
the hotel for dinner; an excellent
opportunity to meet fellow
adventurers on your voyage and
some of our expedition team.
Today we enjoy breakfast in
the hotel restaurant and have
the morning free to explore
Queenstown before returning to
the hotel for lunch and departing
for the Port of Bluff to embark your
ship. You will have time to settle
into your cabin and familiarise
yourself with the ship; we will also
take the opportunity to introduce
you to your expedition team and
our voyage plans. You are invited
to join the expedition team in the
Observation Lounge and up on
the Observation Deck as we set
our course to The Snares and our
adventure begins.
The closest Subantarctic Islands
to New Zealand, they were
appropriately called The Snares
as they were once considered
a hazard for sailing ships.
Uninhabited, they enjoy the
highest protection as Nature
Reserves. It is claimed by some
that these islands are home to
more nesting seabirds than all of
the British Isles together. We plan to
arrive early in the morning and as
landings are not permitted we will
Zodiac cruise along the sheltered
eastern side of the main island if
weather conditions are suitable.
In the sheltered bays, we should see the endemic Snares Crested
Penguin, Snares Island Tomtit and
Fernbirds. There are hundreds of
thousands of Sooty Shearwaters
nesting on The Snares; the actual
number is much debated.
The Auckland Islands group
was formed by two volcanoes
which erupted some 10-25
million years ago. They have
subsequently been eroded and
dissected by glaciation creating
the archipelago as we know
it today. Enderby Island is one
of the most beautiful islands in
this group and is named for the
distinguished shipping family.
This northern most island in the
archipelago is an outstanding
wildlife and birding location and
is relatively easy to land on and
walk around. The island was
cleared of all introduced animals
(pests) in 1994 and both birds and
the vegetation, especially the
herbaceous plants, are recovering
both in numbers and diversity.
Our plan is to land at Sandy Bay,
one of three breeding areas
in the Auckland Islands for the
Hooker’s or New Zealand Sea Lion,
a rare member of the seal family.
Beachmaster bulls gather on the
beach defending their harems
and mating with the cows shortly
after they have given birth of a
single pup. During our day ashore there
will be several options, some
longer walks, some shorter walks
and time to spend just sitting
and enjoying the wildlife. The
walking is relatively easy, a
board walk traverses the island
to the dramatic western cliffs
from there we follow the coast
on the circumnavigation of the
island. Birds that we are likely to
encounter include the following
species: Southern Royal Albatross,
Northern Giant Petrel, Auckland
Island Shag, Auckland Island
Flightless Teal, Auckland Island
Banded Dotterel, Auckland
Island Tomtit, Bellbird, Pipit, Red-
crowned Parakeet, Yellow-eyed
Penguin and Light-mantled
Sooty Albatross. There is also a
very good chance of seeing the
Subantarctic Snipe.
As we make our way south
through the Furious Fifties also
known as the Albatross latitudes,
the birding especially south of
the Auckland Islands should be
good. We will have a series of
presentations on the biology
and history of the Subantarctic Islands. We will also prepare you
for our visit to Macquarie Island.
Species that we may see include
the Wandering Albatross, Royal
Albatross, Black-browed Albatross,
Light-mantled Sooty Albatross,
Salvin’s Albatross, Grey-headed
Albatross, Northern and Southern
Giant Petrel, Sooty Shearwater
and Little Shearwater. There should
be plenty of prions including Fairy,
Fulmar and Antarctic, identifying
them is not easy – but we should
get some great views. Other
species to be on the lookout for
include the Soft-plumaged Petrel,
Mottled Petrel, White-headed
Petrel, Grey-faced Petrel, White-
chinned Petrel, Grey-backed
Storm-Petrel, Wilson’s Storm-Petrel
and Black-bellied Storm-Petrel.
The great Australian Antarctic
Explorer Sir Douglas Mawson once
called Macquarie Island “One of
the wonder spots of the world.”
You are about to discover why as
we spend two days exploring this
amazing Island. It was one of the
first of the Subantarctic Islands to
obtain World Heritage Status and
that was largely due to its unique
geology. It is one of the few
places on earth where mid-ocean
crustal rocks are exposed at the
surface due to the collision of
the Australian and Pacific Plates.
The island was discovered in 1810
and was soon ravaged by sealers
who introduced various animals
including rats, mice, cats and
rabbits. The native bird population
was virtually eliminated and plants
destroyed. The Tasmanian National
Parks and Wildlife Service which
administered the island recently
embarked on a very ambitious
eradication program which
appears to have been successful.
The island is now predator free
and both the birds and plants are
responding. It is amazing to witness
the regeneration and the increase
in the number of birds.
Macquarie Island is home to four
species of penguin, Kings, Royals,
Gentoo and Rockhopper. The
Royal Penguin occurs nowhere else
in the world. During our visit we will
land at two sites (subject of course
to weather and sea conditions)
and you will get a chance to see,
observe and photograph all four
species, although the Rockhopper
is much harder to capture than
the others. Macquarie also has
a large population of Southern
Elephant Seals. Pups are born
in October and weaned in
November when the breeding
adults return to sea. The weaners
and sub adults lie around on the
beaches. The weaners go to sea
sometime in January, running the
gauntlet of Orcas or Killer Whales
who are waiting offshore. We
plan a landing at the Australian
Antarctic Research Base at Buckles Bay where you will be able to
meet with scientists and base
staff. The original base was
established in 1947 and the
island has been ‘manned’ since
then. It is one of the longest
continuously occupied bases in
the Subantarctic.
At sea en route to Campbell
Island and time to unwind after
the adventures of Macquarie
Island. Look for cetaceans
and albatross, join a lecture or
catch up on your photos and
journaling.
Today we explore Campbell
Island, New Zealand’s
southernmost Subantarctic
territory. Its history is as rich and
varied as the other islands we
have visited. Discovered in 1810
(by the same sealing captain
who discovered Macquarie
Island) it too was soon occupied
by sealers who introduced rats
and cats which have since been
eradicated. The vegetation
which the great English botanist,
Sir Joseph Hooker described in
1841 as having a “Flora display
second to none outside the
tropics” is now flourishing and is
nothing short of spectacular.
We will offer a number of
options which will enable you
to explore the island. There will
be extended walks towards
Northwest Bay. There will also
be an easier walk to the Col
Lyall Saddle. All of these options
will allow you the opportunity
and time to enjoy the Southern
Royal Albatross which nest
here in large numbers. We also
visit areas of the island which
contain outstanding examples
of the megaherbs for which
the island is renowned. Other
birds which we will search for include the teal and snipe, and
the endemic shag can be seen
on the harbour. Other birds we
should see include Light-mantled
Sooty Albatross, Northern Giant
Petrel, Southern Skua, Red-billed
Gull, Black-backed Gull, Antarctic
Tern, Redpoll, Dunnock and New
Zealand Pipit.
At sea en route to the Antipodes,
it is a day for pelagic birding.
Species commonly seen in this
area include Wandering Albatross
species, Southern Royal Albatross,
Black-browed Albatross,
Campbell Island Albatross, Light-
mantled Sooty Albatross, Salvin’s
Albatross, Grey-headed Albatross,
Northern and Southern Giant
Petrel, the Sooty Shearwater and the Little Shearwater. This region of
the Southern Ocean is one of the
few places where the Fairy Prion,
Fulmar Prion and Antarctic Prion
occur together, providing a good
opportunity for comparison. Other
species to be on the lookout for
include the Soft-plumaged Petrel,
Mottled Petrel, White-headed
Petrel, Grey-faced Petrel, White-
chinned Petrel, Grey-backed
Storm-Petrel, Wilson’s Storm-Petrel,
Black-bellied Storm-Petrel and the
Common Diving-Petrel.
The Antipodes group of islands is
the most isolated and perhaps
the least known of New Zealand’s
Subantarctic Islands. Sealers lived
here in the decades immediately
after their discovery in 1806. Mice
are the only introduced animal on
the islands but efforts to eradicate
them will hopefully see that their
days are numbered. The islands
are of volcanic origin, but are
heavily eroded especially the
western shoreline. The largest of
the group is Antipodes Island.
Landings are not permitted so we
plan to cruise, along the coastline
by Zodiac where we have a good
chance of seeing the Antipodes
Parakeet, the largest of New Zealand’s parakeets. This species
has an entirely green head. We
will also look for the Reischek’s
Parakeet, a subspecies of the
Red-crowned Parakeet found in
the Auckland Islands and on the
Chatham Islands. We also see the
Antipodes subspecies of the New
Zealand Pipit. Good views of both
Erect-crested and Rockhopper
Penguins can be expected along
the coast where they often breed
in mixed colonies.
We arrive at the incongruously
named Bounty Islands, the remote
northernmost of the five New
Zealand Subantarctic groups; they
were discovered by Captain Bligh
just months before the infamous
mutiny. Here inhospitable granite
knobs, tips of the submerged
Bounty Platform, are lashed by the
Southern Ocean. They are home
to thousands of Salvin’s Albatross,
Erect-crested Penguins, Fulmar
Prions and the endemic Bounty
Island Shag – the world’s rarest. We
plan to arrive in the early morning
and if conditions are suitable
we will cruise by Zodiac around
the granite outposts to take a
closer look at the birds which
breed there. New Zealand Fur
Seals which were almost hunted
to extinction in the Subantarctic
Islands are present in large
numbers.
Sailing towards the Chatham
Islands there are opportunities to
see a good selection of birdlife
as we sail. These should include
Wandering Albatross, Northern
Royal Albatross, Mottled Petrel,
Soft-plumaged Petrel, Broad-billed
Prion, White-chinned Petrel and
Black-bellied Storm-Petrel as well as
Wilson’s Storm-Petrel. Other possible
sightings include White-capped
Albatross, Northern Giant Petrel,
Cape Petrel, Antarctic Fulmar,
Sooty Shearwater, Little Shearwater and Grey-backed Storm-Petrel.
We will also start to keep a lookout
for the Chatham Island Petrel.
As we continue toward the
Chatham Archipelago, there
are excellent opportunities
for pelagic birding today. In
particular, we will look out for
the Chatham Island Petrel which
has been seen on this leg of the
voyage before. In the past we
have observed the very rare
Chatham Island Taiko in this area.
Endemic to the Chatham Islands,
the Chatham Island Taiko – also
known as the Magenta Petrel –
is among New Zealand’s most
endangered species. It is one of
the world’s rarest seabirds with a
population estimated to number
less than 150. This afternoon we
will cruise around spectacular
Pyramid Rock, a basalt outcrop south of Pitt Island. This is the only
breeding place of the Chatham
Island Albatross.
During the afternoon we arrive
at South East Island. This has to
be one of the world’s greatest
nature reserves and landings
are not permitted. However we
should obtain good views of the
very rare New Zealand Shore
Plover and Chatham Island
Oystercatcher from the Zodiacs
as we cruise along the coast.
We should also see the Pitt Island
Shag which nests on the island.
The Chatham Archipelago
consists of one large island and
numerous smaller islands and
rocky islets. Only two of the islands
are inhabited. They represent
New Zealand’s eastern most
territory. The islands were originally
settled by East Polynesians.
In the 1400s the population
became isolated and interestingly
developed its own distinct culture.
The islands were discovered by
Europeans in the 1790s. Sealers
and settlers followed and then
in the 1830s Maoris from New
Zealand invaded killing and
enslaving many of the indigenous
people. The impact of the original
settlers, the European and later
the Maori people on the native
flora and fauna was disastrous.
Introduced animals, hunting, fires
and land clearing wiped out
many species of endemic birds.
Fortunately a number survived
on the offshore islands in the
archipelago.
With a new generation has
come a new awareness and
a willingness to be part of a
concerted conservation effort.
A number of private reserves
have been established, a lot
of replanting has taken place
and predators are being
controlled. Today we will visit one
of the original private reserves
established by a local family
on the south coast of the main
island where there is a very good
chance to see the endemic
Chatham Island Pigeon and
Warbler. The pigeon was close
to extinction until recently, and
is now in good numbers. We
will travel by local bus to the
reserve. The road takes us through
developed farmland where we
will undoubtedly see numerous
introduced species and possibly
the Weka. Near our landing in
Waitangi there is a good chance
of seeing the endemic Chatham
Island Shag. This afternoon we
cruise back along the south
coast, this is where the only
known population of the Taiko
breeds and also where they are
attempting to establish a new
population of the Chatham Island
Petrel in a predator free area.
We have seen both Taiko and
Chatham Island Petrel in this area
on previous expeditions.
En route to Bluff we will cross the
Chatham Rise, a large, relatively
shallowly submerged part of
the Zealandia continent that
stretches east from near the South
Island of New Zealand. Nutrient-
rich waters from the south mix
with warm northern waters and there is an overlap between
northern pelagic species and
birds from southern latitudes, so
we can expect great pelagic
sightings. Species we expect to
encounter include Wandering
Albatross, Royal Albatross, Black-
browed Albatross, White-capped
Albatross and Salvin’s Albatross.
Petrel species we should be able
to identify are the Northern Giant
Petrel, Cape Petrel, Westland
Black Petrel, White-chinned
Petrel, Great-winged Petrel,
Grey-backed Storm-Petrel, White-
faced Storm-Petrel, the Diving-
Petrel and Cook’s Petrel.
Additional birdlife will include
species of shearwater seabirds.
These tubenose birds fly with stiff
wings and use a ‘shearing’ flight
technique to move across wave
fronts with the minimum of active
flight. Photographic opportunities
can include Flesh-footed
Shearwater, Buller’s Shearwater,
Sooty Shearwater and Little
Shearwater. Small petrels on the
horizon and close by include Fairy
Prion and Broad-billed Prion. We
will recap the highlights of our
expedition and enjoy a farewell dinner tonight as we complete
the last few miles of our journey.
Early this morning we will arrive
in the Port of Bluff. After a final
breakfast and completing
Custom formalities we bid farewell
to our fellow voyagers and take a
complimentary coach transfer to
either Invercargill or Queenstown
Airports. In case of unexpected
delays due to weather and/or
port operations we ask you not to
book any onward travel until after
midday from Invercargill and after
3pm from Queenstown.
During our voyage,
circumstances may make it
necessary or desirable to deviate
from the proposed itinerary.
This can include poor weather
and opportunities for making
unplanned excursions. Your
Expedition Leader will keep
you fully informed. Landings at
the Subantarctic Islands of New
Zealand are by permit only as
administered by the Government
of New Zealand. No landings
are permitted at The Snares,
Antipodes or Bounties.
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MAIN DECK TRIPLE CABINS
$13,975 USD pp
DECK 3 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
SUPERIOR TRIPLE CABINS
$14,995 USD pp
DECK 5 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
SUPERIOR CABIN DECK 4
$16,450 USD pp
DECK 4 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Superior Cabins are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, lounge area, writing desk, private ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
SUPERIOR CABINS DECK 5
$16,950 USD pp
DECK 5 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Superior Cabins are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, lounge area, writing desk, private ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
MAIN DECK SINGLE CABINS
$19,450 USD pp
DECK 3 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 in size and feature two porthole windows, king bed, lounge area, writing desk, private ensuite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
WORSLEY SUITES
$19,950 USD pp
DECK 6 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaisestyle lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
SUPERIOR SINGLE CABINS
$20,450 USD pp
DECK 5 | SIZE: 22m2 (235.SqFt) Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, lounge area, writing desk, private en-suite bathroom with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.
HERITAGE SUITES
$31,000 USD pp
DECK 6 | SIZE: 44m2 (475.SqFt) Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44m2 and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs, large writing desk and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub and shower, floor to ceiling storage and a flat screen entertainment system
Additional charges:
Landing Fees: 800 USD pp
Vessel Type: Expedition Ship
Length: 124 metres
Passenger Capacity: 140
Built: 1991
Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the ‘Grande Dame of Polar Exploration’ due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland’s Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship ice-class rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship.
Observation Lounge – One of the most celebrated and best-known features of Heritage Adventurer is the awe-inducing Observation Lounge, Library and Bar. Located on Deck 7 and perched directly above the Bridge, enjoy sweeping 270-degree views through floor to ceiling windows, perfect for wildlife spotting and quick access to the outer deck. Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife, observe the ever-changing landscape, write in your journal or relax with a book.
Observation Deck – Enjoy 360-degree views from the highest point on the ship. The Observation Deck sits above the Observation Lounge and provides exceptional outside viewing options. Stretching the full width of the vessel, this is the perfect spot to take in the surrounding land and seascapes. Perfect on a sunny day, recline in the comfortable sun loungers protected from the wind and elements and watch your voyage unfold.
The Bridge – No expedition is complete without visiting Heritage Adventurer’s busy nerve centre. Located on Deck 6, Heritage Expeditions’ Open Bridge Policy means you are welcome to observe the Captain and crew at work while enjoying some of the ship’s best views. It’s a fascinating place to learn about navigation and vessel operations, however please note the Bridge will be closed when departing or arriving at port.
Dining Room – Indulge in fine international cuisine from our talented chefs in the lavish surrounds of our Dining Room on Deck 4. Sensational 270-degree views provide a stunning backdrop to meals here along with an international wine list featuring many outstanding regional wines. With relaxed seating arrangements, all guests can enjoy dining in a single sitting from hearty breakfasts setting you up for the day’s adventure to sumptuous lunches and multi-course evening dining.
Bistro – Simple fast and delicious meals and snacks are on offer in our relaxed Bistro on Deck 6. Perfect for early risers to enjoy tea, coffee and light breakfast options the Bistro provides great views and opens directly onto a covered and heated teak-deck outdoor dining area.
The Bar and Lounge – The social hub of Heritage Adventurer, the Bar and Lounge on Deck 5 features seating for all guests. Enjoy a beverage at the bar, sink into an armchair, relax on one of the many spacious loungers and watch the world go by through the panoramic windows or make new friends at the communal seating. This multi-tasking space also doubles as the location of daily briefings and evening recaps with the expedition team.
The Gym – Featuring spectacular ocean views, the well-equipped gym is adjacent to the pool, hot tub and sauna in Deck 7’s wellbeing zone. Maintain your routine with an elliptical cross trainer, treadmill, rowing machine, stationary bikes, TRX as well as free weights, yoga mats and fitness balls. Towels are provided with change room and shower amenities nearby.
Sauna and Steam Room – True to her Nordic origins, Heritage Adventurer features a dry-heat Finnish sauna and European steam room on Deck 7. Perfect for warming up post Polar plunge or unwinding after a day’s adventures, the sauna and steam room include change room facilities, showers and towels.
Swimming Pool and Hot Tub – Surrounded by relaxed teak seating including sun loungers, the open-air saltwater pool can be heated or chilled. Encased in glass the hot tub ensures all-weather use, perfect for those who like to relax with a view following a day of exploring.
Lectures and Presentations – Enjoy informative and entertaining lectures on history, biology, wildlife, and ecology in the comfort of the Presentation Theatre. With state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, our world-renowned expedition team will bring your adventure to life through interactive presentations and discussions.
Inclusions
• Voyage on board in selected cabin cateogy
• Pre/Post cruise transfers
• Experienced expedition leader and team
• All meals while on board
• All expedition shore excusions
• Suites include complimentary mini bar, in-room dining and a US$100 pp spa gift voucher
Exclusions
• International and Domestic flights, both commercial and charter
• Travel insurance
• Passport and visa costs if applicable
• Beverages on board
• Gratuities
• Any items of a personal nature including laundry
Expedition
17 Days from
$13,975 USD pp
Highlights
• Enjoy The Snares & Auckland Island• Explore Macquarie Island
• Discover Campbell Island
• Visit Antipodes Islands
Our Associates Include
