Footsteps of Sir Mawson

Follow the path of the 1911 expedition of Sir Douglas Mawson on his mission to explore the Antarctic coastline directly south of Australia. You will land at Macquarie, Snares and the Auckland Islands before finding the South Magnetic Pole and enjoying the brilliant scenery of the Antarctic coastline.

Day 1. Meet in Invercargill
Arrive at the city of Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city. Established by Scottish settlers with its wealth in the rich farmland, sheep and diary farms predominate. On arrival please make your own arrangements to transfer the short distance to the city and specifically to the Kelvin Hotel in the central city. A detailed programme will be available to you when you check in at reception. Dinner is at the hotel which is an opportunity to meet fellow expeditioners.

Day 2. Embark Spirit of Enderby
Breakfast is at your leisure in the dining room at the hotel. Your programme will advise a time for bags out and then you will be transferred to the Southland Museum to view the special Sub Antarctic display before being transferred by coach to the Port of Bluff (27km to the south of Invercargill) to board the Spirit of Enderby. Depart for the Snares Islands.

Day 3. Snares Islands
The Snares is the first of the Sub Antarctic Islands that you will visit. It is one amazing Island - more seabirds nest on this small island than there are seabirds around the entire British Isles. You will make landfall early morning, landings are not permitted, so you will zodiac cruise the sheltered eastern side. Snares crested penguins are plentiful around the coast as are the Cape petrel. Buller's albatross nest here later in the season. Cruising in the sheltered bays you will see the endemic tomtit and fernbird. Antarctic terns, white-fronted terns and red-billed gulls are around the coastline. There is an estimated 60 million of these nesting on Snares Island. mottled petrel, diving petrel and broad billed prion are all in the vicinity.

Day 4. Enderby Island - Auckland Islands
Arrive at Enderby Island, a great island to bird, in the Auckland Island group. Make a landing at Sandy Bay, the main breeding ground for the Hooker's sea lion with observations of the following species, southern royal albatross, northern giant petrel, Auckland Island shag, Auckland Island teal, Auckland Island banded dotterel, Auckland Island tomtit, bellbird, pipit, red crowned parakeet, yellow eyed penguin, light mantled sooty albatross. You can spend some time searching for the Sub Antarctic snipe. Other more common species you will see include goldfinch, song thrush, blackbird, European starling, red-billed gull and redpoll. On Derrycastle Reef there is a good chance to see bar-tailed godwit, turnstone and perhaps other migratory waders.

Day 5. Auckland Islands
This morning you will cruise to Carnley Harbour in the south of the main Auckland Islands, and there will be an opportunity for the energetic participants to climb to the Southwest Cape shy mollymawk colony. Wandering albatross nest above the colony amongst the tussock, and you should get good views of these birds as they will be nesting at this time. Those remaining on the coastline will visit one of a number of historic sites in the area and perhaps see a New Zealand falcon that frequent the area. Depart the Auckland Islands.

Day 6. At Sea
At sea en-route to Macquarie Island. It is a day for observing the pelagic species. Wandering albatross, royal albatross, black-browed albatross, light-mantled sooty albatross, Salvin's albatross, grey headed albatross, northern and southern giant petrel, sooty shearwater, little shearwater. You can endeavour to sort out the fairy prion, Fulmar prion and Antarctic prion which are not always easy but there should get some great views. Other species to be on the look out for include soft plumaged petrel, mottled petrel, white-chinned petrel, grey backed storm petrel, Wilson's storm petrel, black-bellied storm petrel and common diving petrel.

Days 7 & 8. Macquarie Island
At Macquarie Island. This remote outpost belongs to Australia, it is a narrow sliver of land that supports one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in the Southern Hemisphere. Situated on the northern end of the island is the base occupied by Australian scientists, where you should be able to visit them and discuss their research. You can concentrate on the best wildlife areas - the teeming royal penguin rookery at Sandy Bay, the king penguins at Lusitania Bay, the rockhopper penguins scattered around the isthmus and the thousands of elephant seals along the beaches.

Days 9 - 12. At Sea
Depart south to East Antarctica. As you make your way across the vast southern ocean there will be many opportunities for pelagic species watching. The staff will be logging the location of the various albatross, petrels and prions that are seen and a keen lookout will be kept for marine mammals. Lecturers will prepare you for our time in the Antarctic with informal lectures and discussions.

Days 13 - 18. Commonwealth Bay - East Antarctica - Dumont D'Urville
Approach the remote East Antarctica coastline to the first stop is Cape Denison Commonwealth Bay, "Home of the Blizzard". The Cape is the site of the historic hut last used by Sir Douglas Mawson, Australia's most famous Antarctic Explorer, who led the tragic, yet heroic 1911 - 1914 expedition. Mawson's hut still stands, although ravaged by the weather extremes of this area. The crew will also attempt to land and visit Adelie penguins which nest here.

The East Antarctic coastline is one of the first areas of the Antarctic Continent to become "Ice free" each year. Wildlife is abundant with Snow petrels and Wilson's storm petrels nesting on the continent and many offshore islands. Further west you will find Emperor penguins nesting at Dumont d'Urville. A special effort will be made to land at these sites to enable you to see and photograph the birds.

Days 19 - 22. At Sea
Departing from the spectacular ice carved nature of Antarctica you will cruise northwards towards Campbell Island with some quieter time at sea to recover from the extensive daylight hours of Antarctica. The lecturers will discuss various aspects of the Southern Ocean as you share in the friendly camaraderie of the Spirit of Enderby. A look out will be kept for whales and seabirds of the region.

Days 23 & 24. Campbell Island
Anchor in Perseverance Harbour, site of the former New Zealand Meteorological station. After a visit to the station you will walk to Col-Lyall saddle and observe the Southern royal albatross which gather there to nest. On this stunning island you will also see megaherbs and witness other wildlife such as Campbell Islands shags, light mantled sooty albatross and sea lions.

Day 25. At Sea
As you depart Campbell Island for Bluff it is time to reflect on and discuss all the many and varied sights you have observed throughout your voyage, as well as ask the lecturers all those last minute questions.

Day 26. Return to Port of Bluff
Arrive at the Port of Bluff. After completing customs formalities you will disembark.

Grade A
General good health necessary.
No specific fitness requirements.

Clients must be in good general health to join our expeditions. The expedition is ship-based, and physically not very demanding. Although you spend as much time as possible ashore, you are welcome to remain aboard the ship if you like. To join the voyage, you must be able to get up and down steps between the different ship levels and up and down the gangway to board the zodiacs for the excursions ashore.

Rodney Russ - Expedition Leader
Rodney trained with and worked for the New Zealand Wildlife Service (now Department of Conservation) as a "Protected Species Officer" - responsible for the management and conservation of rare and endangered bird species. His work took him the length and breath of New Zealand and to the Sub Antarctic Islands. He left the department to further his studies at the University of Otago - where he completed a double degree in New Zealand and Pacific History and theology. He became more passionate about the need to share the natural world with people, emphasising the need for advocacy in a successful conservation strategy.

In addition to New Zealand Expeditions Rodney has led expeditions to the Pacific and Asia and more recently to South Georgia and Antarctic Peninsula. His goal in everything that he does is to provide opportunities which enhances travellers' experience and understanding of the natural world.

The Expeditions are also led by some of the most experienced Southern Ocean naturalists, who have devoted a lifetime to research in this region.

On board the ship:
The ship is heated throughout with the normal temperature 17-25C. In keeping with the expedition's atmosphere, dress on board is informal. Bring casual and comfortable clothing. Keep in mind that much of the spectacular scenery can be appreciated from deck, which can be slippery. Bring sturdy shoes with no-slip soles and make sure a jacket is never far away in case of the call, "Whales" comes over the load speaker and you have to dash outside. Wear layers since it is comfortably warm on board the ship - and cold out on deck. There may be an occasion, i.e. Christmas Day, New Year's Eve or a spontaneously Posh Night where you may require clothing that is a little more formal.

Tips to stay comfortable & warm in cold weather:

Avoid overdressing to reduce perspiration

Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still breathe enough so that moisture from you body can escape

Body heat is most likely to be lost from parts that have a lot of surface area in comparison to total mass - namely, the hands and feet. Keep them warm and dry. For hands, mittens are better than gloves.

If the rest of your body is covered, as much as 90% of heat can come from your head, so be sure to wear a hat, beanie or balaclava. These items can be pulled down to protect your ears, forehead, neck and chin. The neck also needs protection with a woollen or synthetic scarf that can be wrapped around the face, when travelling against the wind.

Dress comfortable, loose layers. For anyone out in the cold, it is far better to wear layers of relatively light, loose clothing than one thick, heavy item. Between each layer there is a film of trapped air which, when heated by your body, acts as an excellent insulator.

Wool and silk are superior to cotton because they can trap warm air. Synthetic fabrics that spring back into shape after compression are also good. When damp or wet, polyester down is better insulator than goose or duck down. Polar fleece is popular and recommended.

Essential Items

Warm Trousers

Waterproof trousers

Thermal Underwear

Sweaters/Jerseys

Turtlenecks

Mittens and Gloves

Woollen Hat or Balaclava

Warm Socks

Rubber Boots (Gumboots or Wellingtons as we commonly call them)

Waterproof and Windproof Jacket

Backpack

Sunglasses

A pair of Binoculars - highly recommended.

Optional items:

Sandals or similar (slip on sandals) are very useful to wear around the ship

Earplugs may be useful if sharing a cabin with a snorer.

A pair of Binoculars - highly recommended.

The Expedition Vessel 'Spirit of Enderby' (Professor Khromov) is one of the best run ships of it kind. On board the atmosphere is peaceful and warm, more akin to a private yacht than a cruise ship.

With just 48 passengers a very tangible camaraderie is created amongst passengers and crew. The ship is under the command of an experienced team of Russian Officers, with New Zealand and Australian hotel and expedition staff.

Built in 1984, the Spirit of Enderby measures 72 metres in length and is fully ice-strengthened. Powered by two, 1,156 horse power, diesel engines. It is capable of speeds of up to 12 knots. The vessel is fitted with stabilisers, making travel much more comfortable.

Excellent accommodation is provided in twin share cabins, approximately half of which have private facilities and the remainder shared facilities. On board is a bar, library and lounge.

You are encouraged to spend time on the bridge to witness the experienced captain and officers in action, recognised as experts in polar navigation. The team of expert staff are always on hand to assist with every need and question. Throughout the voyage the crew maintain a lookout for seabirds, dolphins or whales and keep an expedition log, a bound copy of which will be sent to everybody at the conclusion of the expedition.

The key to these expeditions is the fleet of semi rigid inflatable Naiad (Greek for water nymph) craft, also known as Zodiacs. These extremely safe and stable craft will land you at some of the most amazing places, where few others have ever been.

There are also specially designed and built Hovercrafts which give unprecedented over ice capability in Antarctica allowing us to land in places that are inaccessible to other ships.

Dining is informal and relaxed, and the cuisine outstanding. Award winning chefs prepare delicious meals and are able to cater for any special dietary requirements. A selection of fine New Zealand and Australian wines is available.

Heritage Suite: has a large lounge area, a separate bedroom with double bed, a single bed in the lounge, writing desk, wardrobe, drawers, fridge. There is a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. There are large forward and side facing windows with great views.

Mini Suite: has a small bedroom with a 3/4 bed and a single bed in the lounge, wardrobe, drawers, a desk and a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. This suite has windows.

Superior Plus: Cabins have two lower berths, wardrobe, drawers, a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have windows.

Superior: Cabins have one bunk, wardrobe, drawers, a desk, a private bathroom with shower, toilet and washbasin. These cabins have windows.

Main deck: Cabins have two lower berths, wardrobe, drawers, a desk, washbasin. The nearby showers and toilets are shared with other Main deck cabins.

What type of ship to shore communication facilities does the ship have?
The ‘Spirit of Enderby’ is equipped with the Iridium satellite phone for phone calls and for receiving and sending emails.

What currency is accepted on board?
The U.S. dollar is the standard currency on board. New Zealand and Australian currency will be accepted at the current exchange rate.

Can you cater to specific dietary requirements?
Chefs can prepare food according to special dietary needs providing requirements are noted at the time of final payment. Unfortunately, kosher, halal and vegan meals cannot be offered.

Can I recharge my batteries and use electrical appliances on board (e.g. hairdryer)?
Power on board is 220V (AC current) with outlets being recessed, round 2 pronged European type. If you plan to bring the American standard 110V equipment with flat pronged plug, you will need to bring a converter and a round 2 pronged European type adaptor plug. Please check your equipment to be sure you bring what is necessary for your personal needs.

Special note for video equipment battery packs: Please check with a camera source and bring with you a convertor adequate for recharging your pack if your equipment is 110V and needing to be converted to the 220V on board.

How sea sick will I be?
All people wonder if they will be sea sick, the answer to this is difficult as it depends entirely on the individual. A small percentage of people do get sick and then recover for the remainder of the voyage. If you think you are susceptible to sea sickness then it is a good idea to be prepared. Motion sickness tablets or Scopolamine patches (Scopoderm) can be purchased from your local chemist. Please remember if you are concerned, commence these before the voyage starts (as directed on the information for each medication) rather than after you are already sick.

Not included in expedition fee:

Airfare to and from your home to the port of departure or arrival in New Zealand.

Items of a personal nature such as insurance, and excess baggage charge.

Passport, visa and vaccination fees.

On board the ship: beverages, communication charges, medical supplies, laundry, sea shop purchases.

Single Travellers:
Single travellers who wish to share their cabin/hotel room should so indicate on the booking form. The published per person double occupancy fare is guaranteed in this case, whether or not a cabin mate is available.

Payment:
You may request to pay for this tour in US or NZ dollars. If you wish to pay in US dollars, it is necessary to pay the money directly into our US dollar account, and not by credit card.

You can pay in NZ dollars by credit card or by direct transfer into our NZ dollar account. Your bank will charge a set fee for telegraphic transfers but you will not incur any exchange fees. If you pay by credit card, your bank may charge a currency conversion fee (usually between 1% and 3%). The current exchange rate on the day of booking will be used. As exchange rates are constantly changing there is no guarantee that your credit card bill will come out to the exact US dollar price as advertised.

Deposits:
A deposit of 25% of the expedition fee is required upon booking to confirm participation. The balance of the fee is payable 90 days prior to departure date.

Cancellations:
Cancellations must be received in writing. For cancellations received more than 120 days before departure date, a full refund will be made less $US400.00 fee per person for administration/handling fee. For cancellations received within 120 days of your embarkation date, the full deposit is forfeited. The full expedition fee is forfeited if your notice of cancellation is received within 90 days of your departure date. On forwarding the deposit you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions found here.

Travel Insurance:
Travellers must obtain full comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency evacuation. It is advised that you purchase trip cancellation protection and/or travel insurance at the time of booking.

Price Changes
The operator reserves the right to alter prices should there be substantial changes in tariffs, exchange rates, cost of fuel, labour or materials.

Itinerary Changes
Due to the nature of the expedition, weather, ice or government regulations may require changes to be made to the itineraries and/or the cancellation of certain shore excursions. Every attempt will be made to adhere to the itineraries described within the limits of safety and time. The ship's Captain has the last word on any decision made with regard to the vessel's itinerary and it is understood that such a decision will be made in the interest of safety of the vessel and of all the passengers on board. In the event of changes, passengers have no right to any refund or other compensation. Expedition fees are based on group participation. Should you choose not to take part in any activity or make use of services provided, no refund will be made.

Notes:
This trip is run in conjunction with another operator.