13 Aug 2021

Humpback Whales and Bottlenose Dolphins in Fiordland

As we rose with the sun the blue skies started to show themselves and presented us with the most fantastic morning cruise on our Dusky and Doubtful Sounds voyage. Sailing out of Wet Jacket Arm we observed pockets of cloud clinging to the mountains while calm water created perfect reflections and sunshine brightened the green vegetation along the water's edge.

As Heritage Explorer sailed along the southern end of Acheron Passage we were greeted by a pod of energetic Bottlenose Dolphins showcasing their many tricks as they playfully jumped through the air. We made our way to Shag Islands for a Zodiac cruise and kayaking for those that were keen, weaving around the islands and then into Sportsman Cove. Sightings included Fiordland-crested Penguins, Little Blue Penguins, New Zealand Fur Seal Pups and plenty of Pied Shags.

After lunch we made our way up to Pigeon Island to see the historic settlement of conservationist Richard Henry, we also spotted some more wildlife including South Island Robin, Buller's Albatross, Fantails, and Gannets. Little to our knowledge our most exciting sighting for the day, and perhaps the expedition, was just around the corner. As we set sail for our anchorage for the night we spotted two Humpback Whales (plus plenty more Bottlenose Dolphins joining in the excitement).

It was extraordinary watching these two Humpback Whales swim and feed around the boat in absolutely no hurry to move on, it will be a memory that all on board will never forget. After we left the whales to continue feeding we made our way to Cascade Cove for the night including a delicious meal and a presentation from expedition member Blake on Fiordland-crested Penguins.

Image © L.Evans, Heritage Expeditions