Heritage Expeditions

Expedition Search

Subantarctic Islands

Remote, isolated, protected by the Southern Ocean and seldom visited, these subantarctic Islands are recognized as one of the worlds' great biodiversity “hotspots” and a region for floralistic diversity. They are home to 40% of the worlds albatross species and 50% of the worlds penguin species. Twenty one species of petrels, prions, and shearwaters breed on these islands while there are at least 35 endemic vascular plant species.

Discovered then plundered in the late 1700’s and early 1800’s by sealing and whaling gangs, they are in fact more isolated now than they were then. Today they are all Nature Reserves and enjoy World Heritage Classification. Government and Conservation agencies have removed many of the animals introduced by the whalers and sealers allowing the islands to return to their natural state.

Current weather conditions in association with Metservice

Subantarctic islands ©