08 Dec 2023

A day adventuring on Enderby Island

Our arrival on Enderby Island was greeted with a typical sub-Antarctic day - a brisk cool wind, occasional passing showers and brilliant sunshine. In other words, a perfect day to explore Enderby Island. We were given three options - a full-day circuit of the Island, a trek on the boardwalk and northern cliffs, or a morning Zodiac cruise with the afternoon ashore. It was certainly a hard choice to make!

It was a day of adventure for everyone. The circuit walkers set off first - observing the beach where New Zealand/Hooker's Sea Lions were gathering in preparation for breeding. Two new-born pups were spotted among the arriving females. There were many sightings to be had, as we continued the circuit observing Yellow-eyed Penguin and Auckland Island Snipe.

Along the boardwalk, we immersed ourselves in the magic of Enderby Island. The Bulbinella Rossii were in full flower, and the Southern Royal Albatross soared above. At the cliffs, the Light-mantled Sooty Albatross were observed on their nests and the Auckland Island Shags were hard at work with beaks full of nesting material.

Those on the morning Zodiac cruise encountered Auckland Island Teal and Red-crowned Parakeet, along with a visit to see the dramatic scene of flowing basalt lava.

What a fantastic day exploring Enderby Island!

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions