02 Mar 2023

Under the Sunshine at Ulva Island

The verdant native forest of Ulva Island glowed bright in the sunshine as Heritage Adventurer sat on anchored as excited guests readied for the first landing on our Unseen Fiordland, Stewart Island and The Snares expedition. Local guides were on hand to lead everyone through the incredibly lush native bush noting the attendance of several Saddleback, Tui, Mohua and Robins while Hooker's/New Zealand Sea Lions sung and lounged in the forest and on the beaches. Towards the afternoon we returned to our ship for a hearty lunch as our Captain repositioned the ship.

Enthusiastic walkers disembarked at Kaipipi to enjoy a long walk through native bush. Meanwhile the ship repositioned to Oban and the remaining guests took Zodiacs to shore for an afternoon in town. The Rakiura Museum, Department of Conservation office, the iconic South Sea Hotel and shops were highlights of our town visit while other guests enjoyed the sandy beach and aerial displays by Shy Albatross.

There was much to discuss during recap and over an exceptional evening meal from our incredible restaurant team. Later that night Heritage Adventurer into Fiordland's Dusky Sound as our adventures in the spectacular south continue.

Image (c) F.Wardle