Galapagos of the Southern Ocean

Paddle and explore THE SNARES, Auckland Islands, Macquarie Island and Campbell Island.

This is without doubt one of the most inspirational and informative journeys into the Southern Ocean ecosystem, providing expeditioners with the unique opportunity to visit the wild and remote Subantarctic Islands. Lying to the south of New Zealand, the islands are UNESCO World Heritage sites and have long been recognised for their rich biodiversity, placing them in a select group of only 180 natural sites that have been designated as among ‘the most important and significant natural habitats on the planet’. Join us in partnership with Heritage Expeditions and be among the few to experience the unique opportunity to paddle and explore the Subantarctic Islands.

Rich with biodiversity

It is no surprise that the Subantarctic Islands of New Zealand and Australia are dubbed the Galapagos of the Southern Ocean as they have long been recognised for their rich biodiversity. The islands are abundant in wildlife and home to penguins, elephant seals, petrels and the majestic albatross. The flora is equally fascinating, with the majority of it being endemic to these islands.
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Aboard the Heritage Adventurer

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, the Heritage Adventurer now takes just 140 expeditioners to create a spacious and comfortable on board experience. Guests enjoy stylish cabins, gourmet fare and an open bridge policy to observe the captain and crew at work. Watch your adventure unfold from numerous spectacular indoor and outdoor viewing locations including Heritage Adventurer’s observation lounge with 270-degree views. Join our world-renowned team of naturalists, botanists, historians and experts as they interpret the natural and human history discovered during the voyage, as well as hosting regular lectures.

Magnificent Macquarie Island

We enjoy two days exploring magnificent Macquarie Island, described by explorer Sir Douglas Mawson as ‘one of the wonder spots of the world’. Discover its unique geology, history and wildlife. Home to King, Gentoo, Rockhopper and Royal penguins!

Join us for an incredible voyage immersing yourself in the Subantarctic Islands unique beauty and wildlife.

Grade

Easy – Moderate

This trip is suitable for active individuals with a thirst for adventure. The kayaking option suits paddlers with some kayak experience.

Trip Grading

Dates

2025
26 Nov-7 Dec, 31 Dec-11 Jan

2026

22 Nov-3 Dec, 17-28 Dec

Cost

2025 from AU$14,350.00* per person.

Additional kayaking supplement AU$1570 .00 per person.

2026 from AU$15,655.00* per person.

Additional kayaking supplement AU$1730 .00 per person.

Costs are in Australian dollars.

*Final price will depend on cabin chosen.

Includes

Pre/post cruise transfers, one night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (inc. dinner/breakfast), all on board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all shore excursions and activities (excluding kayaking) and a program of lectures by noted naturalists.

If you choose the kayaking option and pay the kayaking surcharge, this will include the use of a drysuit, all your paddling and kayak equipment and the services of a professional sea kayak guide throughout the duration of the voyage.

Excludes

Any flights unless listed in the itinerary, single supplements, visa, passport and vaccination charges (if applicable), any pre and post trip hotels and meals not included in the voyage itinerary, optional excursions not included in voyage itinerary, laundry, medical expenses, travel insurance and items of a personal nature such as bar charges, wifi charges and tips.