01 Aug 2021

Dusky Sound Delights

Dusky Sound certainly turned on the weather this morning, with the sun beginning to stream in. The water was glassy as we explored Shag Islands, Sportsman Cove and Cooper Island. New Zealand Fur Seals were abundant on the rocks, Pied Shags were nesting in the trees, and Kaka were cruising above the tree tops. While the Zodiacs weaved in and out of the islands, the kayakers also made the most of the pristine weather conditions paddling out on the water.

Heritage Explorer then repositioned towards the outer fiord and along the way Dusky Dolphins, Fur Seals and Fiordland-crested Penguins were easily spotted in the calm conditions. Pigeon Island provided great afternoon activities, with a walk around the historic Richard Henry site where you can still see remains of his fireplace and bird translocation pens and get a feel for how isolated he was during his time as caretaker for nearby Resolution Island. A short walk out to the southern side of Pigeon Island gave great views across to Anchor Island and out to the mouth of the fiord and Tasman Sea. Numerous birds were seen and heard on Pigeon Island including Robins, Fantails, Bellbirds and South Island Saddleback.

To top the day off we came into a sheltered anchorage next to Crayfish Island and everyone had the opportunity to explore Astronomer's Point adjacent to where Captain Cook and his crew made their home for 6 weeks in 1773.

Image from file © C.Todd, Heritage Expeditions