28 Feb 2024

Greeted by Southern Right Whales at Campbell Island

Our In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton voyage was nearly at an end marked by Heritage Adventurer’s early morning approach to Campbell Island. Upon arrival, we were greeted by three Southern Right Whales, who performed gracefully for over 30 minutes in front of the basaltic cliffs, blowing and feeding. It was such a special moment!

We continued sailing to Perseverance Harbour through moody clouds that hung over the hills, and anchored near the weather station. We arrived via Zodiacs on Campbell Island, with some walking to Northwest Bay and others ascending past the old weather station and along the boardwalk to Col Lyall Saddle. Pleurophyllum speciosum (Campbell Island Daisy), and Pleurophyllum hookeri were both in bloom, giving a beautiful purple hue to the landscape. Exploring the island, we observed Campbell Island Snipe, Pipits and nesting Sothern Royal Albatross, with one of the highlights being when an albatross stood up and revealed a small white chick.

Images © M. Maloney, Heritage Expeditions