31 Jan 2025

Southern Royal Albatross Soaring on Campbell Island

Our In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton voyage saw us enjoy a calm and sunny approach to Campbell Island. In a special treat, Mary (having one of the winning bids at the fundraising auction) helped captain Heritage Adventurer into Perseverance Harbour, where several Southern Royal Albatross and Sooty Shearwaters were observed on approach. 

Arriving near the old meteorological (MET) base, we departed our Zodiacs, and the Northwest Bay hikers set off on their epic circuit of the island. Hiking through the rugged tussocks and shrubs of Campbell Island, they enjoyed a six-hour hike. Along the way, they observed great wildlife, including Subantarctic Snipe, New Zealand Pipit, countless Southern Royal Albatross, Antarctic Terns, Southern Elephant Seals, and many more.

Following this, the team for Mount Honey disembarked on their mission to summit the highest peak on the island. Making the most of the sublime conditions, they observed many flora and fauna, including two Snipe and several nesting Southern Royal Albatross.

Those opting for the Zodiac cruise or Kayak enjoyed taking in the harbour from the water, seeing the endemic Campbell Island Teal & Campbell Island Shag, many New Zealand Sea Lions and a lone King Penguin on land ready to moult. Afterwards, the group landed to walk the Col Lyall Boardwalk, where all the vistas of Campbell Island could be seen, alongside great views of nesting Southern Royal Albatross. 

Once back onboard, we undertook a biosecurity check while Captain Jacek positioned Heritage Adventurer on the northeastern coastline to admire North Cape and Bull Rock. Here, we observed the endemic Campbell Island Albatross alongside Grey-headed, Southern Royal Albatross and Light-mantled Sooty Albatross.

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions