11 Mar 2023

History, Retail Therapy, Albatross and Daiquiris in Dunedin

There was a buzz throughout Heritage Adventurer as she entered the splendid Otago Harbour, the sun was shining, the air was warming, and everyone was ready to explore the fascinating city of Dunedin.

First stop, Tūhura Otago Museum where we meet Ross, our exceptional local guide for a private tour through the exhibitions before the museum opened to the general public. Moa, plate tectonics, extinct and endangered species were discussed as everyone marvelled at the amazing displays and information.

After some quick retail and café therapy, most guests boarded the bus for the scenic drive to the suburb of Portobello. Here, half the group disembarked for a scrumptious lunch while the other half proceeded to the Royal Albatross Centre at Taiaroa Heads. This season there are 33 Northern Royal Albatross chicks being reared by dutiful parents. Guests were treated to a short video and interactive presentation by centre staff followed by exceptional viewing from the bird hide on the hill. The two groups then switched so lunch and albatross could be enjoyed by all before re-boarding the bus to head back to ship.

As the Heritage Adventurer departed, Dunedin Daiquiris were served on the back deck with everyone raising their glasses and enjoying the sunshine and spectacular views as we farewelled Dunedin.

Image © V. Lubrick, Heritage Expeditions