22 Nov 2019

Wet Welcome on Campbell Island

Our time at Campbell Island was a wet one, but that didn't stop our planned activities from going ahead. Winds blow more than 90-kilometres-per-hour for 100 days of the year here, but at least there were no winds today.

After shuttling our Northwest Bay walkers to the start of their 11-kilometre circuit walk, we planned a Zodiac cruise for those remaining on board. Campbell Island Teal and the Campbell Island Shag were found almost straight away allowing us to relax a bit more and enjoy our explorations. Highlights included: Light-mantled Sooty Albatross on nests, Sea Lion colonies, several Yellow-eyed Penguins, nesting Campbell Island Shags, and New Zealand Fur Seals. We even witnessed the brutality of nature as a Sea Lion killed and ate a New Zealand Fur Seal in front of us.

In the afternoon we made our way to the Col Lyall Boardwalk and while it was still a wet affair, watching Southern Royal Albatross nesting metres from the track and good views of the Campbell Island Snipe for everybody made it a successful afternoon, and day, on Campbell Island.

Ending our day on Campbell Island with another high, we saw a Leopard Seal on land before returning to Spirit of Enderby for a sauna, hot showers and another delightful meal thanks to our amazing chefs.

Image © D.Stavert, Heritage Expeditions