01 Dec 2023

A wildlife paradise – an adventure at World Heritage Site Macquarie Island

Continuing our Galapagos of the Southern Ocean adventure, Heritage Adventurer arrived on a stunning sunshine-soaked morning at UNESCO World Heritage Site, Macquarie Island, which recently tripled in size following a landmark announcement from the Australian government.

Orcas steamed past the side of our trusty expedition vessel before we went ashore for a fantastic view of the Australian Macquarie Island Station and a walk to the West Beach. It was a captivating scene, with the beach home to Elephant Seal Pups, King Penguins/Tokoraki, Giant Petrels, Brown Skuas, Gentoo Penguins with Sooty Albatross soaring past.

It was an absolute treat observing the Elephant Seal Pups, who were only six-weeks-old and had already tripled in weight from 25kg to 75kg. The adult males and females only left the island two weeks ago, migrating to Antarctica to forage for food, leaving pups everywhere!

After lunch, we visited Sandy Bay to see an endemic Royal Penguin colony of over 50,000 penguins shrieking and pecking at each passing bird. On the beach, we were entertained by the larger-than-life Elephant Seal pups and inquisitive King Penguins, who swum right beside the Zodiacs and emerged out of the waves to waddle ashore. Observing Oakum Boys, baby King Penguins, was another highlight with their fluffy brown down blowing in the wind.

Back on board Heritage Adventurer, more Orca arrived as we anchored and spent the night at Sandy Bay protected from the strong winds.

Images © Heritage Expeditions