09 Dec 2019

Penguins and Weaners on Macca

After another exciting day on the Southern Ocean we were ready for our next landing and to see what else was hidden in the depths of the 'Galapagos of the Southern Ocean'. Making Macquarie Island in the early hours of the morning, we woke to an island that was a surprisingly different to the Auckland Islands - steep with low lying vegetation, while the temperature was starting to feel a lot more polar.

After collecting our rangers from the Macquarie Island Research Station we headed south for our first landing at Sandy Bay. We knew we'd be seeing plenty of King and Royal Penguins but it's not until you land that you discover the true magic of Macca. With several thousand penguins and Elephant Seal weaners covering the beach it is truly an out-of-this-world experience.

Despite the rain and cold wind everyone persevered to spend as much time as possible watching the many antics of the wildlife, which seemed to be just as curious of us and we were of them. After a few hours of watching, we reluctantly headed back aboard the Akademik Shokalskiy for a late lunch as we cruised south towards Lusitania Bay.

Unfortunately the weather deteriorated meaning a Zodiac cruise was off the cards. However, this certainly did not deter the wildlife viewing as King Penguins came out to visit, albatross soared through the skies and a pod of three Orca were spotted making their way north. We also gave an excellent opportunity to have a pre-dinner Q+A session with the rangers on board.

Image © from file D.Stavert, Heritage Expeditions