Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: New Zealand and Australia's Subantarctic Islands 19% Advantage

An expedition to the subantarctic islands of New Zealand and Australia, which are occasionally compared with the Galápagos Islands due to their distinctive wildlife and varied landscapes. The voyage calls at several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including The Snares, Auckland Islands, Campbell Island and Macquarie Island, which are recognised for their endemic plants and animal species. Experienced naturalist guides accompany the group throughout the expedition and provide insight into the ecosystems, flora and fauna of the region. The programme allows opportunities to observe various penguin species, albatrosses and other seabirds, as well as seals, with landings and Zodiac cruises dependent on weather and local regulations. Optional photography workshops with professional photographers are offered, and kayaks may be used, conditions permitting, to explore sections of coastline more closely. Each day provides time for nature observation, learning about the subantarctic environment and exploration, with the itinerary adjusted flexibly according to weather and sea conditions.

Itinerary: Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: New Zealand and Australia’s Subantarctic Islands

Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown, New Zealand
Guests make their own way to Queenstown and meet at the designated hotel in the evening for a group dinner with the expedition team.


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Day 2: Embarkation in Bluff
After breakfast and free time in Queenstown, a transfer takes you to the port of Bluff. Following embarkation, cabin allocation and safety briefings, the vessel departs in the afternoon and begins the voyage towards the subantarctic island groups.

Day 3: The Snares
Today you reach The Snares, a small and protected island group. Landings are not permitted, so observations are made exclusively by Zodiac. The islands are known for dense seabird populations, including the Snares crested penguin, various petrels and other endemic species.

Day 4: Auckland Islands – Enderby Island
Landings on Enderby Island provide opportunities to observe sea lions, yellow-eyed penguins and other seabirds. Short walks offer insight into the island’s distinctive flora.

Day 5: Auckland Islands – Carnley Harbour
Further landings and Zodiac cruises allow observation of sea lions, different albatross species and penguins, subject to weather and local regulations.

Day 6: At sea to Campbell Island
During the longer sea passage to Campbell Island, the expedition team presents information on the biology, geology and history of the region. Seabirds and marine mammals may be sighted from the ship where conditions allow.

Day 7: Campbell Island
Landings on Campbell Island take place under expert guidance. Endemic plants, royal albatrosses, penguins and seals may be seen, with activities dependent on weather and permits.

Day 8: At sea to Macquarie Island
The route continues to the Australian Macquarie Island, a UNESCO site known for its large penguin and seal colonies. Guides provide further information about the ecosystems of the subantarctic region during the crossing.

Day 9: Macquarie Island
Landings on Macquarie Island allow visits to areas with king penguin colonies, seals and southern elephant seal pups. Zodiac cruises along the coast are also planned, conditions permitting.

Days 10 & 11: At sea returning to New Zealand
The ship sets course back towards New Zealand. During the extended sea passage, the expedition team offers lectures and presentations on the flora and fauna of the subantarctic waters. From the deck, albatrosses, petrels and other seabirds may be observed, and dolphins or whales may occasionally be sighted. The programme remains flexible according to weather and sea conditions.

Day 12: Disembarkation in Bluff and departure
The vessel returns to Bluff in the morning. After disembarkation, the expedition concludes and individual transfers or onward travel to Queenstown or other destinations follow.

Further information: The subantarctic islands are strictly protected nature reserves where landings take place only with permission and in accordance with local regulations. Permit fees contribute to conservation efforts and cooperation with regional protection programmes. All meals on board are included and freshly prepared, with breakfast, lunch and dinner served daily. House beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner, and a 24-hour station provides water, tea and coffee. The ship also offers library and lounge areas that support lectures, wildlife observation and time on board between landings.

Included travel services:
- All landings and Zodiac cruises
- Guidance by experienced naturalist leaders
- Photography workshops with professional photographers
- Kayaking excursions under expert supervision
- Accommodation on board the Heritage Adventurer
- All meals on board (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
- House beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- 24-hour station for water, tea and coffee
- Informational briefings and lectures throughout the voyage
- Opportunities for wildlife observation and photography
- Transfers to and from the port in Bluff
- Safety briefings and ship orientation
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