21 Jan 2014

17 Jan Voyage: Enderby Island

Enderby Island greeted us with strong wind and rain yesterday, but fortunately this was not to last. In true expedition style, we did not let the passing frontal system dampen our spirits and donned wet weather gear before being transferred by Zodiac to our landing at Sandy Bay. Once ashore camera lenses captured Hooker’s Sea Lions and Yellow-eyed Penguins going about their daily lives. A formed boardwalk through Rata forest and megaherb fields took us across from Sandy Bay to the wild Western Cliffs and into the teeth of the prevailing wind and driving rain. We were experiencing true Roaring Forties weather! The choice was made by individuals to complete a circuit of the island, or return along the boardwalk allowing time to photograph the nesting Southern Royal Albatross along the way. Late in the morning the sunshine appeared and stayed with us for the rest of the day.

Species sighted during the day included New Zealand Fur Seals, Light-mantled Sooty Albatross, Teal, Pipit, Tomtit, Red-crowned Parakeet and Bellbird.  After stretching their legs, many expeditioners spent time on the beach at Sandy Bay observing the Hooker’s Sea Lions interactions with each other. As always it was a pleasure and honour to visit such a rich and diverse island.

We are now in light seas enroute to Macquarie Island, enjoying comfortable surroundings and good company.