21 Jan 2021

Reliving History on Auckland Island

Today we explored the natural harbour of Auckland Island's Carnley Harbour Zodiac cruising the rocky coastline spotting wildlife and enjoying two landings.

Our first landing took us to Tagua Bay and one of the huts used by the Coastwatchers during World War II. The base was stationed with five men and a roster was kept throughout the war to scan the sea for enemy ships, though none were ever seen. It was great to hear some insights from John, one of our expeditioners, who led a team restoring the hut 10 years ago.

Back on board Spirit of Enderby for lunch, we ship cruised the Western Arm of Carnley Harbour and watched in awe as large breakers rolled in through Victoria Passage surrounded by thousands of Sooty Shearwaters rafting on the water.

Our next stop saw us visit the remaining skeleton of the wreck of the Grafton. The ship washed ashore in 1864 leaving its crew of five stranded on the island for 20 months until they managed to modify the ship's dinghy and sail it to Stewart Island; special thanks to Gus for bringing their adventure to life for us.

Image © K.Riedel, Heritage Expeditions