New Zealand Antarctic Cruises

 

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean

  •  
    Cruise
  •  
    Marine Mammals
  •  
    Bird Watching
  •  
    Day Hikes
  •  
    Multi-day Hiking
  •  
    Kayaking
  •  
    Rafting
  •  
    Caving
Start: Dunedin
Finish: Hobart
Length: 14 days
Grade:
A
Accom: Cabins
Price:
US$5,050
Extra Costs: Landing Fees US$600 pp
Departs: 9 Dec 2012 - see see departures
Highlights: To the south of New Zealand are six groups of islands, remote from each other and from New Zealand. These are the Sub Antarctic Islands, they are among the world’s wildest places. Some are close to pristine. The larger ones have suffered from the introduction of alien animals in the past but, island by island, animal by animal, they are slowly being cleared of introduced fauna and restored to something like their original condition.

This region hosts the most diverse collection of seabirds in the world. More than 40 seabird species – at least 11% of all worlds’ seabirds – breed in the Sub Antarctic region. Land birds and small invertebrates animals, including insects, are surprisingly numerous, diverse and in some cases breathtakingly rare. The land birds indicate, through their diversity, just how long these islands have been isolated. No fewer than 15 species are Sub Antarctic endemics. This expedition visits four of the six island groups including Snares, Auckland’s, Macquarie and Campbell. There is no other comparable expedition in the world, for an introduction and understanding of the dynamic and diverse southern ocean eco-system this is a “must do” expedition.

Day 1: Dunedin
Day 2: Depart Dunedin to Snares Islands
Day 3: Snares Islands
Day 4: Auckland Island - Enderby island
Day 5: Auckland Islands - Carnley Harbour
Days 6 & 7. Campbell Island
Day 8: At Sea
Days 9 & 10 Macquarie Island
Days 11-13 At sea
Day 14: Port of Hobart
 
Map
     
Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service and Tourism Industry Association Member
 
Qualmark Endorsed Visitor Service Tourism Industry Association Member Department of Conservation Approved Macpac Partnership Tourism Distinction Award Winners