07 Apr 2014
Raoul Island Visit
We departed Raoul Island last night after two wonderful days on this incrediblely diverse island. The weather and sea conditions were near perfect and the DOC Rangers and staff on the island very hospitable. Raoul is the largest island in the Kermadec Group and has a long and fascinating history. To learn more about this I highly recommend Steven Gentry's recently published book 'Raoul and the Kermadecs' published by Steele Roberts in 2013.
Landings over the two days included walks to Boat Cove, Denham Bay and the hostel area. We also took the Zodiacs close to the nearby Meyer Islands where we enjoyed the magnificent spectacle of many thousands of Kermadec Petrels wheeling and circling above us. Some of the group also enjoyed snorkelling the protected reserve where the marine life is truly spectacular.
Today we are enjoying beautiful sailing conditions as we make our way towards Tonga and people are out on the decks enjoying the sunshine, while others are spending time in the library reading or sorting their many photos.
04 Apr 2014
We have a keen group of 'birders' on board, but also many people keen to explore the seldom visited islands on our itinerary. The crew and expedition…READ MORE
02 Apr 2014
It is a beautiful day in Mt Maunganui where we are preparing to greet a new bunch of explorers for the Island Odyssey and South Pacific Odyssey. …READ MORE
01 Apr 2014
The Lyttelton Pilot disembarks as we depart for Tauranga on the east coast of New Zealand's North Island. It was time for some deck maintenance as we…READ MORE
