This is without doubt one of the most inspirational and informative journeys or expeditions into the Southern Ocean ecosystem that one can make anywhere in the world. Long recognised for their rich biodiversity, the Subantarctic Islands lying to the south of New Zealand are UNESCO World Heritage sites. This places them in a select group of only 250 natural sites that have been designated as ‘the most important and significant natural habitats’ on the planet. They are also afforded the highest conservation status and protection by the Australian and New Zealand governments and access to these islands is by permit only. On this expedition we offer you the unique chance to explore, photograph and understand these wonderful places in the company of some of the most knowledgeable and passionate guides.
As a young biologist, Heritage Expeditions founder Rodney Russ first visited these islands in 1972 with the New Zealand Wildlife Service. He organised New Zealand’s first commercial expedition there in 1989 and it was only natural that his family should travel with him, what wasn’t predicted was that they would join him in the business and be as passionate about the conservation of this region as he is.
Now, many years and over 100 expeditions later, Rodney’s sons Aaron and Nathan continue their father’s enthusiasm and legacy for this region with Heritage Expeditions. As the original concessionaire we enjoy good relationships with the conservation departments and some of the access permits we hold are unique to these expeditions.
The name we have given to this voyage ‘Galapagos of the Southern Ocean’ reflects the astounding natural biodiversity and the importance of these islands as a wildlife refuge. (The book ‘Galapagos of the Antarctic’ written by Rodney Russ and Aleks Terauds and published by Heritage Expeditions describes all of these islands in great detail.)
The islands all lie in the cool temperate zone with a unique climate and are home to a vast array of wildlife including albatross, penguins, petrels, prions, shearwaters and marine mammals like sea lions, fur seals and elephant seals. The flora is equally fascinating; the majority of it, like the birds, is endemic to these islands.
This renowned expedition includes four of the Subantarctic Islands: The Snares, Auckland, Macquarie and Campbell. Each one is different, and each one is unique – just like this expedition.
Passengers 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 familarise
yourself with the ship; we will also
take the opportunity to conduct
a number of safety briefings. 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.
Comprising of two main islands
and a group of five islands
called the Western Chain; they
are uninhabited and 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 the weather and
sea conditions are suitable. In the
sheltered bays, we should see the endemic Snares Crested Penguin,
Snares Island Tomtit and Fernbirds.
Cape Pigeons, Antarctic Terns
and White-fronted Terns are also
present in good numbers. There
are hundreds of thousands of
Sooty Shearwaters nesting on
The Snares; the actual number
is much debated. The Buller’s
Albatross breed here from early
January onwards.
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 after 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
explore on foot. 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
from younger (ambitious) males,
to mate with the cows shortly
after they have given birth to 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 boardwalk
traverses the island to the dramatic
western cliffs, from there we follow
the coast and circumnavigate
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.
In the south of the archipelago
there is a very large sheltered
harbour rich in human history
including shipwrecks, treasure
hunters, Coastwatchers and,
of course, scientific parties. We
plan to arrive early morning
from our anchorage at Enderby
Island. We enter the harbour
through the eastern entrance
which is guarded on both sides
by dramatic cliffs and rugged,
tussock-covered hills. Our
activities here today are totally
weather dependent. We have
a number of options. The climb
to the South West Cape to visit
the Shy Mollymawk colony
provides magnificent views in all
directions, especially over the
western entrance to Carnley
Harbour, Adams Island and
Western Harbour. There is also
the Tagua Bay Coastwatcher’s hut and lookout (the former is
derelict) which was occupied
during the Second World War. We
could also visit Epigwatt and the
remains of the
‘Grafton’
which
was wrecked here in 1864. All five
men aboard survived and lived
here for 18 months before sailing
their modified dinghy to New
Zealand to get help. Two of the
survivors wrote books about their
ordeal. Their first-hand accounts
tell us a lot about their time here.
Alternatively we may visit the
Erlagan clearing where a German
Merchant ship cut firewood to
fire its boilers after slipping its
moorings in Dunedin on the eve
of the Second World War. Another
potential site is Camp Cove where we can see the remains of the
castaway depots established
and maintained by the New
Zealand government between
the 1860s and early 1900s. Later
this afternoon we depart for
Macquarie Island.
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 lectures 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.
Macca, as it is affectionately
known by its resident ranger
population, 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 , who
administer the island, embarked on
a very ambitious 7-year eradication
programme resulting in the island
earning pest-free status in 2014.
Both the birds and plants have
responded and 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, with
the Royal Penguin occurring
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 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
waiting offshore. We also 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.
There will be briefings and lectures
on Campbell Island in preparation
for our visit there and opportunities
for pelagic birding and/or simply
relaxing
We have all of today to 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. In 1895 the New Zealand
government advertised the island
as a pastoral lease. The lease was
taken up by an entrepreneurial
New Zealand sheep farmer who
stocked the island with sheep
and cattle. The farming practices,
which included burning the scrub,
modified the island considerably.
The farming lasted until 1934
when it was abandoned.
Coastwatchers were stationed on
the island during the war, at the
end of the war the station was
taken over by the New Zealand
Metrological service and they
maintained a manned weather/
research station on the island
until 1995.
In the early 1970s the island was
fenced in half and stock was
removed off the northern half.
The impacts of the remaining
animals were monitored and they
were all eventually removed in
1990. The vegetation recovered
quickly and the cats died out
naturally. In a very ambitious
(and never before attempted on
such a large scale) eradication
programme the New Zealand
Department of Conservation
successfully removed the rats.
With the island declared predator
free in 2003, the way was clear
to reintroduce the endangered
Campbell Island Flightless Teal,
which had been rediscovered
on an offshore island in 1975.
Snipe, which were formerly
unknown from the island but were
discovered on another offshore
island, recolonised the islands
themselves. 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
flourishing and is nothing short of
spectacular.
We will offer a number of options
to explore the island. There will be extended walks to Northwest Bay
and possibly Mt Honey. 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.
At sea en route to the Port of
Bluff, take the opportunity to
relax and reflect on an amazing
experience. 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.
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25 November, 2023 to 06 December, 2023
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Book now
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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30 December, 2023 to 10 January, 2024
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Book now
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Heritage Adventurer
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
