The Kermadec Islands

Day 1. Depart Auckland
'Spirit of Enderby' will be berthed in Auckland. We will be providing a coach transfer from a central city location to the ship, this will depart at 10.00am. Full details of this service will be provided in your final documentation and it will be important that your take advantage of this service because security arrangements on the wharf will make it difficult for individuals to go to the ship direct.

Once on board you will be shown to your cabins, there will be an opportunity to unpack before exploring the ship and meeting other expeditioners. The 'Spirit of Enderby' will sail soon after everybody is on board. After lunch there will be a series of briefings and lectures including a compulsory Life Boat Drill, and an introduction to staff and ship. Free time can be spent on the bridge “birding” or simply relaxing.

Days 2 & 3. At Sea
Time at sea with a series of lectures on the Kermadecs, chances for observations of birds and marine mammals to simply time to relax. L’Esperance is the first of the Kermadec Is group we will see then Curtis and Cheeseman.

Days 4 – 7. Raoul Island
Four days are planned with time ashore or underwater depending on your activities. Possible walks include Boat Cove to Base, Green Lake Walk and Denham Bay Hut. The best diving is around Meyer Islands but we will also be exploring new sites in this subtropical marine reserve.
It will be possible for divers to go ashore for walks and likewise for walkers to go snorkeling. Flexibility and maximum use of time and resources are the key to the programme.

Boat Landing to Base: From this landing it is approx 4km walk across Low Flat.

Green Lake Walk: ˝ hour (one way). The track leaves from the station. It crosses some steep faces at one place otherwise an easy track. You can explore the thermal vents around Green Lake before returning the same way.

Water Supply Walk: There are some great views across the flats to the Meyer Islands group from this walk. There is a “route only” beyond the water intake to Hutchinson Hut which is at the eastern end of the island.

Denham Bay Hut: 2˝ hours (one way). There is a good marked track with a steep drop down into the Bay. From the hut you can access the beach or the walk along the sand dunes. The remains of a ship wreck can be seen part way along the beach.

During our time at Raoul Island we will land in the Boat Harbour on the Meyer Islands here you will be able to walk along the extensive wave platform and watch the birds returning to the island in the evenings. There are endemic seabirds that many participants would like to see they include the Kermadec Petrel, The White Napped Petrel, and the Kermadec race of the Little Shearwater this landing provides one of the best opportunities apart from our time at sea.

For those keen on diving our dive master will be organising as many dives as weather and time will allow. The best diving is out around the Meyer Island group but we will also be exploring some new sites. The marine areas surrounding the Kermadecs are the only true example of sub-tropical waters in New Zealand, and sufficiently far enough away from the mainland to have escaped heavy commercial fishing. An extensive Marine Reserve ensures added protection. This is some of the best diving in the South Pacific.

It will be possible for those keen on diving to also go ashore for walks and likewise we will make opportunities for those not so serious divers to have an opportunity to go snorkelling. Flexibility and a maximum use of the time and our resources will be the key to having a great time at the islands.

Day 8. Macauley Island
We will depart Raoul Island on the evening of day 7 and cruise overnight to Macauley Island to arrive on the morning of day 8. Landings are not permitted on this island, which was cleared of feral goats some years ago.

The endemic Kermadec Parakeet occurs in good numbers on this island and we should get good views of it from Naiad cruising. There will also be an opportunity for the divers to enjoy another dive.

Days 9 & 10. At Sea
An opportunity to catch your breath after around the clock activities at Raoul and Macauley Islands. Our lecture staff and dive master will run some recaps - these are opportunities to share experiences and exchange information with other participants. There will also be some lectures and videos.

Day 11. Arrive Auckland
Spirit of Enderby will berth in Auckland this morning. You will be able to enjoy breakfast on board and then after arrival formalities are completed, a coach will transfer you and your gear to central city hotels or other pre arranged drop off points. We strongly advise that you do not make any onward travel arrangements until after midday, in case the Spirit of Enderby is delayed for some reason.

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 we
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 breadth 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.

The company has put a lot of energy and effort back into conservation work in New Zealand. In the last five years the company has invested over US$100,000 dollars in support and cash for the Fiordland Crested Penguin - a project which was instigated by Rodney. Wandering Albatross research work in the Sub Antarctic has received considerable support.

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 the traveller's experience and understanding of the natural world.

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

This expedition is scheduled for the late summer / early autumn of the Southern Hemisphere. On all the islands, the climate is subtropical, with average temperatures ranging from 16° to 22° C (60° to 72° F) and rainfall averaging about 60 inches (1,500 mm) annually.

Extremes of weather can be experienced and our ability to cope with these and to dress accordingly will ensure that we are able to participate fully in the expeditions.

For your comfort and safety, bring wind and waterproof outer layers.

The secret to keeping warm or cool is the layer principle. This says that you are better to have several light layers of clothing than one heavy layer. This also gives you flexibility in your clothing so you can take off a layer if you are too warm or put another layer on if you are cold. The most important outer layer is the outer waterproof and windproof shell because a small wind of 6kpm can carry away eight times more body heat than still air.

In keeping with New Zealand's relaxed lifestyle, dress is informal on most occasions.

On board the ship: The shipboard normal temperature is 17-25C. In keeping with our expeditions 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. There may be an occasion, ie: 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: Wear water repellent outer garments that will keep you dry on the outside and still breathe enough so that moisture from your body can escape.

Essential Items
When packing, don't weigh yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select practical attire for your trip that can be worn in layers, including:

Waterproof trousers
Water resistant rain pants of coated nylon are essential for your comfort. Wear them over your regular clothing to keep you warm and dry. Gore-Tex and similar fabrics are waterproof and breathable.

Sweaters/Jerseys
Wool sweater or a polar fleece jacket of medium weight are recommended.

Trousers. Bring several pairs of trousers and / or shorts.

Shirts. Cool comfortable shirts or T Shirts.

Rubber Boots (Gumboots or Wellingtons as we commonly call them) Very important! A pair of pull-on rubber, unlined and completely waterproof boots that are mid calf or higher with a strong, ridged non-skid sole is essential for landings. You may have to step from the zodiac into water up to 10" high on some landings.

Boots with waffle soles like those on a hiking boot or running shoe tend to give the best footing. Try out your boots before the voyage. Generally these can be purchased at most boating or hardware stores. If you have difficulty locating these or wish to purchase them at the point of departure we can assist you.

Waterproof & Windproof Jacket
A well fitting garment with attached hood that can be worn over your under layers with reasonable comfort. It is most important that this garment is thoroughly waterproof. Gore-Tex or sailing gear are ideal although it is possible to find cheaper waterproof gear. The waterproof jacket is the most important layer of clothing. There is nothing worse than wind on wet clothing.

Backpack.
This is essential for putting camera gear and/or binoculars in for shore excursions. Putting these into waterproof plastic bags before placing them into a backpack will provide the best protection. Be sure to choose a bag with shoulder straps so that your hands are FREE for embarking the zodiacs and landings.

Sunglasses
Good quality sunglasses, sun protection lotion and chapstick. Note that the glare from the water can be quite penetrating, even when the sky is overcast.

Optional items:

A pair of Binoculars - highly recommended.

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.

Our Expedition Vessel 'Spirit of Enberby' (Professor Khromov) is one of the best run ships of its 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 Enberby 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.

We encourage you to spend time on the bridge to witness our experienced captain and officers in action, recognised as experts in polar navigation. Our team of expert staff are always on hand to assist with every need and question. Throughout the voyage we 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.

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.

Main deck triple: This cabin has one bunk and one lower berth, wardrobe, drawers, a desk and 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?
a) Phone: Telephone calls can be made from the ship by the Inmarsat system or the Iridium phone.
b) Fax: Fax messages can be sent from the ship to any fax number anywhere in the world. Charges for outgoing faxes will appear on your ships account.
c) Emails: Emails can be sent to the ships email address. To send messages to this address the sender must be registered with Xantic ( www.xantic.net). There will be a charge for all redirected email messages and this will show on the relevant ship board account. It is possible to send emails to any address anywhere in the world from the ship and a charge will appear on your ship account for any emails sent.

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

Can you cater to specific dietary requirements?
Our chefs can prepare food according to special dietary needs providing we are notified at the time of final payment. We regret that no kosher or vegan meals can be offered.

Can I recharge my batteries and use electrical appliances on board (ie: 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 convertor 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. From our experience we expect a small percentage of people to 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.

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: Although we advertise the price of this expedition in U.S. dollars we will be charging you in the equivalent amount of New Zealand dollars. We will be using the current exchange rate on the day of making the booking but as exchange rates are constantly changing we cannot guarantee that your credit card bill will come out to the exact US dollar price as advertised. Please also allow for currency conversion fees charged by your bank (usually between 1% and 3%).

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: We strongly recommend that travellers purchase trip cancellation protection and/or travel insurance at the time of booking.

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

Itinerary Changes
Due to the nature of our expeditions, 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 ships 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 to 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.