About Heritage Expeditions

Heritage Expeditions was formed in 1984, as a way of increasing awareness and conservation of the natural world through responsible expedition travel. Founded by Rodney and Shirley Russ, Rodney was a biologist working for the New Zealand Wildlife Service. Through his work with Kakapo, Chatham Island Black Robin and other endangered species he appreciated that rather than locking wilderness areas away, it was important to share them with people so that they might become 'ambassadors' advocating and supporting conservation efforts. He has long held the view that conservation and responsible travel are partners, that together can achieve what might otherwise be unachievable.

From those small beginnings Heritage Expeditions, which is still family-owned and run, now by Rodney and Shirley's sons Aaron and Nathan Russ, operates its own ships – 140-guest expedition ship Heritage Adventurer and 18-guest expedition yacht Heritage Explorer on expedition cruises into the 'heart of Antarctica' the Ross Sea, the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand and Australia, around the islands of Japan, Taiwan, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Philippines, Australia's iconic Kimberley Coast and coastal New Zealand and Fiordland, Stewart Island and Marlborough Sounds. Each authentic, small-ship expedition cruise is meticulously planned and led ensuring expeditioners maximise every opportunity they have to learn and experience as much as possible about the region, while at the same time minimising the impact of their visit.

Today Heritage Expeditions works from modern purpose-built offices in Christchurch, New Zealand. When booking with us you benefit from the enormous wealth of experience, knowledge and passion of our team for the destinations we visit.


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Heritage - Where we go

Birding Down Under #1961 was a tremendous experience! The staff and crew were fabulous: we learned so much and always felt that everyone had our safety and enjoyment foremost in their minds. Being able to go where so few have gone is a great privilege, and we are so grateful to have this opportunity. We …

Tom and Patsy Inglet
What a wonderful expedition from beginning to end. I had the best time ever. Loved exploring this remote area with its picturesque landscape ever changeable and dramatic coastlines. The crew where outstanding from Sebastian the wonderful French chef to Sophia the ever helping and friendly assistant. Our guides Andy and Lyn were talented knowing so …

Jude Wood
The wildlife we saw will stay in my memories forever.

Fiona
Congratulations and well done, Heritage Expeditions, not only for an incredible trip, but also for creating an outstanding company with integrity and genuine passion for sharing the marvels of the natural world with your travelers. Chukotka aboard the Spirit of Enderby was undoubtedly one of the most inspiring and eye-opening trips I've taken. I had …

Amelia
Many thanks for a brilliant voyage. I had a completely fantastic time on the trip to the Subantarctic Islands.

Marina
In the safe hands of expedition leader Rodney and ship captain Dimitri, The Spirit of Enderby took us on a journey of a lifetime. The adventure of crossing the notorious southern ocean, the remarkable history and huts of the 'heroic age' explorers, the mesmerising wildlife encounters, the scenic snow clad mountains of the Antarctic continent, …

Stacey Lethlean
Thank you so much for the log and photos. What a wonderful experience and so good to be able to participate fully although older than most! Simply lovely people, both guests and crew.

Jocelyn Mitchell
We truly believe you guys are one of the best travel companies we have ever dealt with regards to what places you go, what you offer in the expedition, your values and ethos, the quality of the ship, and above all else, the exceptional professionalism, experience, humour and quality of the staff.

Ben and Ros
My brother Roger (83 1/2 retired Medical Doctor) and I, Brian (82 retired Dental Surgeon) thoroughly enjoyed this amazing adventure. Having previously (in 2005) experienced the Heritage Spirit of Enderby expedition to Kermadec Islands where I dived with Roger Grace, I looked forward to this Southern Ocean trip with enthusiasm. The whole voyage was absolutely …

Brian L. Peak
How do you describe seeing one’s first Emperor or Orca, sailing beside an iceberg as big as a country and making contact with immortal legends?

Max
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