The Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific



The plant life of the Sub Antarctic region is rare and unique. Sir Joseph Hooker, botanist aboard Sir James Clark Ross’s 1840 Antarctic Expedition, who later became curator of the famous Kew Gardens in England wrote about the plants on these remote islands “the most extraordinary is the Pluerophyllum meadow, a community dominated by the large leafed herbaceous composite, producing a flora display second to none outside the tropics”
 
In recognition of the richness, special forms and unique associations, the World Conservation Union (IUCN) has designated the region a world centre of floristic diversity. Vascular plants number about 250, with 35 found only in the region and several found only at a single island or group.
 
This expedition which visits the Snares, Auckland’s and Campbell Islands are timed to coincide with this magnificent flora display. Because of the remoteness of these islands only a few people have ever witnessed this display. This expedition is your opportunity to enjoy this display and the magnificent wildlife.

Next Voyage is #2563 – 4 January 2009 – 11 January 2009

Day 1
Depart from central Invercargill to the Port of Bluff and embark Spirit of Enderby, set course for Campbell Is.
 
Day 2
A day to become familiar with the ship, the rhythm of life at sea and learn from our on board lecture staff about your forthcoming destinations.
 
Day 3 and 4
Perseverance Harbour, Campbell Is gives our landing place at the abandoned Meterological Service Base. There are options for a full day walk to North West Bay or a gentler walk to Col Lyall to observe the Southern royal albatross. The megaherbs will be reaching their flowering peak adding colour to the dramatic scenery of Campbell Is. Our second day we can explore onto Mt Honey or visit the coastal sites of Tucker Cove, Garden Cove or the site of the Loneliest Tree.
 
Day 5 and 6
Carnley Harbour in the south of the Auckland Is will offer us an opportunity to visit the historic site at Tagua Bay or climb to South West Cape to view the white capped albatross colony.
 
Our full day at Enderby Island in the north of the main Auckland Is allows time to observe the breeding of the New Zealand or Hookers sealion on Sandy Bay, the yellow eyed penguins as they parade to and from the sea, the numerous bellbirds and red crowned parakeets, Auckland Is shag on their colony and the flightless teal either at Derrycastle Reef or Teal Lake.

Additional charges:

Government Landing Fees $150.00 USD pp

Circumstances may be encountered during our voyage which will make it necessary or desirable to deviate from this itinerary. These circumstances include poor weather conditions and opportunities for making unplanned zodiac excursions. Your Expedition leader will provide more information at the start of the voyage and keep you fully informed during the voyage.