25 Mar 2024

Exploring the rich history of Norfolk Island

Even in the early morning light before breakfast, those who stepped outside were greeted with the uplifting spectacle of hundreds of seabirds flying past Heritage Adventurer. Delicate White Terns and Blue-grey Noddies mixed with other Noddies and the occasional Masked Booby were flying purposefully between their breeding grounds on Norfolk Island and feeding areas at sea. Boobies could also be seen spaced out on the grassy slopes above the low cliffs surrounding the island. Some of these birds would be travelling many tens of miles a day in their never-ending search for food.

Filled with breakfast, we boarded Zodiacs and headed ashore in testing conditions. After biosecurity formalities that were required since we were now in Australian waters, we parted ways, with the birders heading upwards through the majestic Norfolk Pines to a protected area, whilst others headed to the historical parts of this island, once called home by the unlucky prisoners who were forced to eke out an existence in one of the most infamously cruel penal colonies of the era. On the way to the penal colony, we stopped at Mount Pitt for a great view of Norfolk before we made our way down to the Botanical Garden and learned more about the extensive history of the island.
 
In the beautiful, forested areas dominated by majestic Norfolk Pines, the birders found all five endemic land birds in record time. In contrast to some visits, everyone enjoyed excellent views of Norfolk Island Parakeet, the most difficult species to find on the island.

All too soon we had to leave, heading towards our next destination, New Caledonia. During the afternoon, in calm sunny conditions, birders mostly relaxed on deck watching passing seabirds, whilst others relaxed by the pool and bar or visited the gym and spa.

Images © M. Jones & H.Dohn, Heritage Expeditions