19 Jan 2022

Exceptional Albatross and Megaherb Displays on Campbell Island

Campbell Island appeared over the horizon as the dawn started to break and by 0700 we were abeam of the spectacular Bull Rock Albatross colony with its thousands of nesting Campbell and Grey-headed Albatross.

Over breakfast Spirit of Enderby's sailed into the calm waters of Perseverance Harbour and dropped anchor close to the former Met station.

First ashore were the North West Bay walkers who headed out under grey skies, but enjoyed a glorious day of megaherbs, albatross and sunshine after the clouds parted late morning. Pleurophyllum speciosum/Campbell Island daisy is in full bloom blanketing the upper ridges of the island in a sea of purple flowers that is as beautiful as it is unexpected. The Southern Royal Albatross did not disappoint either with exceptional displays throughout the afternoon as the walkers passed beneath the slopes of Mt Duma.

The rest of the party spent the morning exploring Perseverance Harbour by Zodiac and then they too climbed to the upper slopes to immerse themselves in the world of Albatross and megaherbs in full flower. Today Campbell Island put on an exceptional display and unforgettable day on our Forgotten Islands of the South Pacific voyage.

Image from file © S.Blanc, Heritage Expeditions