25 Feb 2025

Amazing Albatross at Campbell Island

Our In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton voyage saw us return to the Subantarctic Islands. As Heritage Adventurer approached Campbell Island in beautiful sunshine, we were surrounded by albatrosses, soaring over the waves. We cruised along the spectacular eastern coast, heavily indented and with stunning volcanic cliffs, until reaching the impressive sea stack of Bull Rock. Here, on the northern tip of the island, the cliff ledges were covered in thousands of Campbell Albatross nests. Some were occupied by adults, but many had grey fluffy chicks.

Our trusty expedition vessel anchored in the deep and sheltered inlet of Perseverance Harbour. From here, a boardwalk took us into the island's heart, where we observed a huge colony of Southern Royal Albatross. We were surrounded by them and their nests, giving us great opportunities to photograph the impressive adults and a few tiny chicks. At a high and exposed cliff-top viewpoint, some of us marvelled at the adults flying in strong winds, soaring with seemingly effortless grace. What a wonderful sight!