This is without doubt one of the most inspirational and informative journeys or expeditions into the Southern Ocean ecosystem that one can make anywhere in the world. Long recognised for their rich biodiversity, the Subantarctic Islands lying to the south of New Zealand are UNESCO World Heritage sites. This places them in a select group of only 180 natural sites that have been designated as ‘the most important and significant natural habitats' on the planet. They are also afforded the highest conservation status and protection by the Australian and New Zealand governments and access to these islands is by permit only. On this expedition we offer you the unique chance to explore, photograph and understand these wonderful places in the company of some of the most knowledgeable and passionate guides.

Heritage Expeditions organised New Zealand's first commercial expedition to these islands in 1989, now, many years and over 100 expeditions later, Galapagos of the Southern Ocean has become one of our signature voyages. As the original concessionaire we enjoy excellent relationships with the conservation departments and some of the access permits we hold are unique to these expeditions.

The name we have given to this voyage ‘Galapagos of the Southern Ocean' reflects the astounding natural biodiversity and the importance of these islands as a wildlife refuge. (The book Galapagos of the Antarctic written by Rodney Russ and Aleks Terauds and published by Heritage Expeditions describes all of these islands in great detail.) The islands all lie in the cool temperate zone with a unique climate and are home to a vast array of wildlife including albatross, penguins, petrels, prions, shearwaters and marine mammals like sea lions, fur seals and elephant seals. The flora is equally fascinating; the majority of it being like the birds and endemic to these islands.

Our 18 December 2024 departure offers guests the opportunity to join award-winning Australian travel photographer and author of ReIMAGINE: Change your Photography by Changing your Perspective Ewen Bell on one of his bespoke, small group photography workshops. Ewen has been mentoring, writing and teaching about photography for nearly two decades and his workshops include a dedicated series of presentations and interactive sessions on board the comfort of Heritage Adventurer and excursions out in the field to capture the light, wildlife, wilderness and culture.

NOTE: Voyage HA#241122 is a 13-day voyage departing Hobart, Tasmania, on 22 November 2024. This expedition includes the option to join a sea kayaking excursion with an expert guide. Kayaking around the Subantarctic Islands offers a wide array of habitats to explore beyond the reach of our Zodiacs. Please see brochure for full details.