Subantarctic and Chatham Islands
This expedition has a great attraction for penguin fanatics and birders interested in the endemic species of the islands surrounding New Zealand. However, you don't have to be a intense birdwatcher to enjoy this expedition. People interested in island ecology, botany, geology and an increasing number of photographers have enjoyed voyages to the islands enormously, as have those interested in the history of discovery and exploration of the Southern Ocean. We go on land whenever the weather and sea coditions are favorable.
Apart from the Chatham Islands, these islands are now probably more isolated than when they were discovered in the late 1700s and early 1800s as they were regularly visited by sealers and whalers. It is relatively easy to reach the Chatham Islands, but opportunities to visit the other islands are rare.
Note:
We do our utmost to guarantee the best experience, unfortunately we have no control over the weather or wildlife behaviour. Ports of embarkation and disembarkation and sites may change depending on vessel and departure dates and weatherconditions. Below you will find the description of a few places and highlights that we visit during the cruise where possible.
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Subantarctic and Chatham Islands
You will see the beautiful landscapes of a number of subantarctic islands; the Snares Islands, the Auckland Islands, the Chatham Islands, Macquarie and Campbell. These islands give a perfect picture of the special flora and fauna in this region.
Antipodes Islands
The Antipodes Islands are a group of volcanic islands, 650 km southeast of Stewart Island. Various bird species can be found here, including the Antipodes parakeet and several albatrosses. Besides that, half of the worlds population of large crested penguins can be found on the islands.
Bounty islands
Different from what you might expect, the Bounty Islands are a group of rocky and uninhabited islands. The islands have a total surface of 1,3 km² and the highest point is 90 meters above sea level. On the island live large groups of New Zealand fur seals and it is a breeding place for the big crested penguin.
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Pyramid Island
Pyramid Island is a small island which is part of the Chatham Islands. The island has been identified by BirdLife International as an important bird area because it supports the only known breeding colony of the Chatham albatross.
Mangere Island
Mangere Island and nearby Tapuaenuku (Little Mangere) are the eroded remains of an ancient volcano from the Pliocene. The highest point of the island, Whakapa, is 292 meters above sea level.
South East Island
South East Island is known for its overwhelming flora and fauna. Several rare and endemic plants and animals live on the island. Take the Zodiac to admire one of the world's greatest nature reserves up close. -
Images by T. Bickford K. Ovsyanikova, AR. Russ and L. Gwynn for Heritage Expeditions
Dates & Rates
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Heritage Adventurer Birding Subantarctic and Chatham Islands
- Heritage Adventurer
- 16 nights
- Max number of Passengers 140
- Learn more about this vessel
Dates
- 5th Dec - 21st Dec 2023
- Embark: Bluff
- Disembark: Bluff
- Prices per person from
- 13,450 EUR
Route: The Snares - Macquarie Island - Antipodes Islands - Campbell Island - Auckland Islands - Chatham Islands - Bounty Islands
Extensions
Call us today on +31 (0) 858 771 583