The Subantarctic islands may have a low profile on the usual tourist radar, but the fact is that they are home to some of the most remarkable wildlife reserves in the world.
Located In the Southern Ocean to the south of Australia and New Zealand, each island cluster is a UNESCO site and is deemed the most significant natural habitat on earth.
Besides the fascinating bird and animal life, the islands are incredibly lush and noted for their abundant green shrubs of megaherbs, some 90 cm tall, sprouting leaves, and massive green flowers.
Getting there
The Subantarctic Islands are far removed from the usual tourist circuit but those with a deep interest in nature can visit them on a guided cruise trip.
Special cruise lines offer trips out to the islands, but the visitor has to adhere to strict guidelines to minimize human impact on the fragile ecosystems of the islands.
You can book hassle-free holidays with experts like Wildfoot Travel as well.
Best time to visit the Subantarctic Islands
If you are considering traveling to any of the New Zealand Subantarctic islands, your sailing window is limited to just December, January, and sometimes February during the austral summer.
During these months, the days are long and bright, and the temperature settles around 5 degrees C, and the islands spring to life with the sounds of animals and seabirds.
Why visit the Subantarctic islands?
A voyage to the Subantarctic Islands will appeal to a diverse range of guests united by their admiration of adventure, nature, and wildlife conservation.
The trip will offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore these off-the-beaten-path destinations for an experience that promises unrivaled excitement for all who embark on this fascinating journey.
Subantarctic Cruise Itinerary(12 days)
Your subantarctic ship will sail from Port of Bluff, at the resort town of Queenstown and head south to the cluster of islands immediately below New Zealand South Island.
You will skirt the coastline of Snares (North East Island), the closest Subantarctic Island to New Zealand where no landings are permitted being a rich protected haven for wildlife.
You will go ashore at Enderby, Auckland and Campbell island, New Zealand’s southernmost Subantarctic Island.
Your voyage will head far south to Macquarie Island for a truly rewarding experience even though access to the island is a bit tricky.
As your ship makes its way back to Port of Bluff, it will be the ideal time to take some rest and enjoy the onboard amenities.
The farewell Captain’s dinner on the last night will bring the curtain down on your unforgettable voyage.
Subantarctic Cruise Port Highlights
Apart from a modest jetty, a survival hut or a ranger’s cottage, there is little to associate these islands as regular port of call for a cruise ship. Still there are some major interesting points.
The Snares-North East Island
The Snares are the nearest to mainland New Zealand and only 60 miles south of Rakiura Stewart Island.
You can only Zodiac across the rugged coastline of The Snares from the ship. Being feral-free they are some of the most pristine in the world.
Keep your eyes open for the endemic Snares crested penguin and massive colonies of nesting seabirds more than all found in the entire British Isles.
You are also likely to encounter Snares Island Tomtits and Buller’s Albatross on the towering cliffs overlooking the sheltered bays and more.
Auckland Islands-Enderby Island
The Auckland Islands are 290 miles to the south of the town of Bluff at the bottom of the South Island.
Once a home to an introduced population of rabbits and cattle, these lush pastures have long since been taken over by seabirds and sea lions.
Named after a distinguished English family, the Campbell Islands are said to be the most beautiful of all the group and are a paradise for birdwatchers.
Visitors who prefer to stay close to the shore can walk along the flanked boardwalk and watch the rare Hooker’s sea lions on Sandy Bay or, if lucky, the even rare yellow-eyed penguin.
Adventure seekers have the option to dodge the excited sea lions and embark on an extensive tour of the island, visiting the rata forests.
Auckland Islands-Carnley Harbor
Also a part of the Auckland group of islands, Carnley Harbor enjoys a historic location that was once a naval coastal outpost designed to keep an eye on enemy ships during WWII.
In days of yore, many shipwrecks occurred here, and the remains of the Grafton, which went down in 1864, can still be found here. You can hear plenty of harbor tales on castaways, gold and coastwatchers.
The hardy souls can attempt to reach the top of the South West Cape to enjoy captivating views of a colony of Shy Mollymawk(albatross) below.
Those who don’t prefer to undertake the climb can instead enjoy a memorable Zodiac excursion to Adams Island and Victoria Passage.
Macquaire Island
Politically a Tasmanian territory, the extremely remote, but fascinating Macquarie Island National Park is today manned by rangers and scientists.
The island also served as a staging post for expeditions to the Antarctic and got UNESCO status because of its incredible geological value.
Left alone by predators and humans, the seabirds and marine animals thrive here and roam the island without fear. Get your passport stamped at the Australian National Antarctic Research Expedition base station while enjoying excellent tea and scones.
Campbell Island-Perseverance Harbor
Campbell Islands, being the southernmost of all the islands, are 430 miles south of the South Island and 170 miles southeast of Auckland Island.
A former hideout for whalers and seal hunters, Campbell Island is known for its mega herbs, a species of perennial wildflowers that can be recognized instantly by their great size, huge leaves, and colorful blooms.
The island is also home to a weather station and is one of the best spots to enjoy the spectacle of nesting colonies of Royal Albatross at Col Lyall.
Being predator free, the island is a mecca for birders who come to look for the endangered Campbell Island Flightless Teal, Campbell Island Shags and light-mantled albatross.
Cruise tips for the Subantarctic Islands
- Pay close attention to what you need to pack and which items your cruise line will provide. In all probability you will have carry your own beanies, gloves and layered undergarments.Your cruise ship will hopefully loan you gumboots.
- Follow your guide’s instructions carefully, especially when viewing the wildlife. Take extra care when approaching nesting seabirds or getting close to sea lions as they can intimidate visitors if disturbed.
- Unfortunately, most of the sights and attractions are only accessible by hiking, usually in windy conditions. So make sure you are reasonably fit to undertake the trip. Moreover, the seas can sometimes become rough, so be prepared to face seasickness and carry the necessary tablets.
