Explore a region of incredible geological formations
Discover the diversity and wild landscapes of the Sub-Antarctic Islands, rich in endemic flora and fauna including the Yellow-Eyed Penguin.
The islands are home to a bewildering array of species including albatross, penguins, petrels, prions, shearwaters, sea lions, fur seals and elephant seals.
Secluded and seldom visited, the Sub-Antarctic Islands are recognised by UNESCO as one of the world’s most precious biodiversity hotspots. Often called “The Galapagos of the Southern Ocean”, these remote islands harbour incredible volcanic and glacial geological formations as well as extraordinary flora and fauna including the endangered Yellow-Eyed Penguin, plus thousands of other endemic birds.
The Snares Islands
The Snares Islands are the only Sub-Antarctic islands to never have had introduced species. The remote islands can only be explored by Zodiac and no landings are permitted.
The Auckland Islands and Enderby Island
This fairly large group of islands has a fascinating history of exploration, shipwrecks and human settlement.
Macquarie Island’s Royal Penguins
Known as “Penguin City”, Macquarie Island is the only breeding ground of the Royal Penguin and boasts three other penguin species.
Campbell Islands
Campbell Island is the most southerly of the New Zealand Sub-Antarctic Islands, located 700 km south of New Zealand.
Zodiac Excursions
Most shore excursions and sightseeing trips in and around the Sub-Antarctic islands are by Zodiac inflatable boats.
Recommended tours to Antarctica
We have a unique selection of Antarctic Peninsula cruise options carefully chosen for their itineraries, as well as the vessels used. Our selection of ice-strengthened ships are all small to medium in size, with a maximum of 50-199 passengers, ensuring an authentic, up-close encounter with the untrammelled wilderness. All of our cruises and tours are completely tailor made to suit our clients interests, budget, and timeframe. To find out more about the type of Antarctic Cruise program we can put together for you, please contact us.
Galapagos of the Southern Ocean
The Galapagos of the Southern Ocean expedition offers one of the most inspirational and in-depth journeys into this remarkable region of the world.
In the wake of Scott and Shackleton
The Ross Sea region of Antarctica is one of the most remote places on Planet Earth and one of the most fascinating places in the continent's human history.
Sub-Antarctic Islands Overview
Why Sub-Antarctic Islands: The Sub-Antarctic islands south of New Zealand – Snares, Auckland, Macquarie and Campbell are so unique and rich in diverse fauna and flora that they are protected as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The islands are havens for sea birds and huge colonies of penguins and seals.
Climate: The Sub-Antarctic islands have a cool temperate climate but are subject to frequent storms, high winds and rough seas. On sunny summer days they can be very mild, but the weather tends to be unpredictable and can change at any moment.
Combine With: A voyage to Antarctica.
Getting There: Most voyages depart from Invercargill in New Zealand.
