29 Nov 2020

Island Hopping with Dolphins and Penguins

Fiordland turned on a sensational sunny day for the finale of our first voyage of the season Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island as we explored Dusky Sound alongside Bottlenose Dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins and New Zealand Fur Seals.

First off it was predator-free Anchor Island, home to half the world's population of Kakapo and Little Spotted Kiwi, we explore historic Luncheon Cove - location of New Zealand's first sealing gang, European homestead and first boat building efforts. While remnants of their boatbuilding remains, little can be seen of the homestead with nature, and the local seals, reclaiming the picturesque cove.

On nearby on Pigeon Island, we learn the history of Richard Henry and his pioneering live transfer of birds to island refuges - an international first in wildlife conservation. While his attempts were unsuccessful due to pests, it is heartening to learn the island is now pest free and a sanctuary for native birdlife, with Henry's vision fulfilled.

We return to Spirit of Enderby with time for a swim off the gangway, our splashing fracturing the surrounding mountains reflected on the water's surface, before enjoying a farewell feast prepared by our talented chefs.

Image from file © C.Hill, Heritage Expeditions