In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Ross Sea Antarctica 20% Advantage

This journey takes you through the spectacular landscapes of Antarctica and the unique Subantarctic Islands. After your arrival in New Zealand, you will embark on an unforgettable adventure. Along the way, you can expect numerous wildlife observations, including penguins, albatrosses, and seals. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the stunning nature and rich wildlife of the region.

In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Queenstown
Welcome to Queenstown, New Zealand's famous alpine resort! Upon arrival, you will make your way to your hotel, where you will spend the first night of your expedition. In the evening, you are invited to an informal dinner, providing a great opportunity to meet fellow adventurers and members of the expedition team. Enjoy the breathtaking surroundings and get ready for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Port of Bluff
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, you will have the morning free to explore Queenstown. Take the time to enjoy the picturesque surroundings, perhaps with a stroll along the shores of Lake Wakatipu or through the charming streets of the town known for its adventure offerings. After lunch, return to the hotel to prepare for your journey to the Port of Bluff, where the expedition team will be waiting for you. Onboard the Heritage Adventurer, you will have time to settle into your cabin or suite and familiarize yourself with the ship. As you enjoy the coastal views, join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge or on the Observation Deck as we set course for the Snares Islands and your adventure begins.

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Day 3: The Snares – North East Island
The Snares Islands are the closest Subantarctic islands to New Zealand and were discovered in 1795 by Lieutenant Broughton. They consist of two main islands and countless small rocky islets that are uninhabited and highly protected. North East Island, the largest of the Snares, is home to more nesting seabirds than all the British Isles combined. Early in the morning, we will arrive at the islands and embark on a Zodiac cruise along the sheltered eastern side of the rugged coastline, weather and sea conditions permitting (landings are not allowed). In the sheltered bays, we will have the opportunity to observe the endemic Snares Crested Penguins, Snares Island Tomtit, and Fernbirds. Cape Pigeons and Antarctic Terns are also present in good numbers. The Snares are a nesting ground for hundreds of thousands of Sooty Shearwaters, which breed here. You will be captivated by the penguins and the stunning landscape as you immerse yourself in the untouched nature.

Day 4: Auckland Islands – Enderby Island
The Auckland Islands were formed 10 to 25 million years ago by volcanic eruptions and are now a popular spot for wildlife observation. Enderby Island, one of the most beautiful islands in the group, offers impressive wildlife and is relatively easy to explore. After breakfast onboard, we will head towards Sandy Bay, where we will visit one of the three breeding sites for the rare Hooker’s or New Zealand Sea Lion. On the beaches, we will have the chance to observe the mighty sea lions as the Beachmaster bulls defend their harems and mate with the cows shortly after they give birth. During our walk around the island, we will encounter various bird species, including the Southern Royal Albatross and Auckland Island Flightless Teal. The walks are easy, and the breathtaking views of the island’s dramatic cliffs will remain in your memory. Use this time to enjoy the wildlife and stunning scenery, and perhaps capture some incredible photos of the fascinating animals.

Day 5: At Sea
On this day, you will learn more about the biology and history of the Subantarctic Islands and the Southern Ocean while we are at sea. It’s an excellent opportunity to spot pelagic species, including the Wandering Albatross, Royal Albatross, and Shy Albatross. Participate in engaging lectures and presentations that will provide you with interesting insights into the wildlife and geography of the region. Take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the vastness of the ocean while observing the various bird species that circle around the ship. This is also a good chance to engage with the expedition team and ask any questions as we prepare for the next adventure.

Day 6: Macquarie Island
Welcome to Macquarie Island, one of Australia’s most valuable Subantarctic regions. Here, millions of penguins breed, including King Penguins and the endemic Royal Penguins. We will spend our time between the two approved landing sites, Sandy Bay and Buckles Bay, and, if weather conditions allow, also enjoy a Zodiac cruise at Lusitania Bay. At Sandy Bay, you will experience a lively colony of Royal Penguins, while at Buckles Bay, we will take a guided tour of the Australian Antarctic Division Base. At both landing sites, we can also observe Southern Elephant Seals resting on the beach and in the tussock. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the penguins, and enjoy the opportunity to witness some of the best wildlife observations on this unique island.

Day 7: At Sea
We continue our journey on the open sea, using this time to learn more about the depth of Antarctica through a series of lectures. Enjoy the stunning views and engage in discussions about the remarkable wildlife we’ve encountered. Look out for pelagic birds that accompany us along our route, and take the time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had so far.

Day 8: Campbell Island – Perseverance Harbour
We arrive at Campbell Island, New Zealand’s southernmost Subantarctic territory, located approximately 660 kilometers south of Bluff. Here, we spend the day exploring the island on foot starting from Perseverance Harbour, a long inlet cutting into the undulating landscape. Campbell Island is known for its breathtaking scenery, unique flora, and rich wildlife. We have the opportunity to observe Southern Right Whales that occasionally come here to calve. During a guided walk to the breeding sites of the Southern Royal Albatross, we will observe these magnificent birds in their natural environment.

Day 9: At Sea
On this day, we spend our time at sea as we make our way back to the Port of Bluff. Take this opportunity to relax and reflect on an amazing experience. It’s a good chance to download and edit any remaining photos while they are fresh in your mind and seek insights from our expedition team. We will recap the highlights of our journey and enjoy a farewell dinner tonight as we sail toward our final port.

Day 10: Invercargill/Queenstown
Early in the morning, we will arrive at the Port of Bluff. After a final breakfast and completing customs formalities, we bid farewell to our fellow voyagers. A complimentary coach transfer will take you to either Invercargill or Queenstown Airports. In case of unexpected delays due to weather and/or port operations, we advise you not to book any onward travel until after midday from Invercargill and after 3 PM from Queenstown.

Days 11-22: Antarctica's Ross Sea Region
During our time in the Ross Sea region, we will visit the highlights of Antarctica's most historic area. Due to the unpredictable nature of ice and weather conditions, a day-by-day itinerary is not possible. The Captain and Expedition Leader will assess daily conditions and take advantage of every opportunity to make landings and explore in the Zodiacs. Our program emphasizes wildlife viewing, key scientific bases, and historic sites, as well as the spectacular scenery of the coastal terrain, glaciers, and icebergs of the Ross Sea. Potential landing locations include Cape Adare, Cape Hallett, and Franklin Island, where you can observe the famous Adelie Penguins and other unique species.

Days 23-25: At Sea
On our route to Campbell Island, participate in a series of lectures designed to prepare you for our visit tomorrow. Keep an eye out for pelagic species, which may abound as they did on our way to Macquarie Island earlier in the voyage. Above all, take the time to rest and enjoy shipboard life after the excitement of Antarctica.

Day 26: Campbell Island – Perseverance Harbour
Today, we will explore Campbell Island, where we will have the chance to observe the impressive wildlife, including Southern Royal Albatrosses and rare Hooker’s/New Zealand Sea Lions. Enjoy a guided walk to the bird breeding sites and learn more about the unique flora and fauna that this island has to offer. Be ready with your camera as we explore the landscape and take in the stunning views.

Day 27: At Sea
We continue our journey on the open sea, participating in lectures and discussions about the depth of Antarctica. Use this time to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past days and prepare for the upcoming return. Keep an eye out for seabirds accompanying us on our way and savor the peaceful atmosphere of the ocean.

Day 28: Invercargill/Queenstown
Early in the morning, we reach the Port of Bluff. After a final delicious breakfast and completing customs formalities, we bid farewell to our fellow travelers. A complimentary shuttle will take you to either Invercargill or Queenstown Airports. Please note that in the event of unexpected delays due to weather or port operations, we recommend not booking any onward travel until after midday from Invercargill and after 3 PM from Queenstown.
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