Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia

Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia

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Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia

9 Days Starting in Port Vila and ending in Hobart

Visiting: Australia, Vanuatu

Tour operator:

Heritage Expeditions

Ship Name:
Heritage Adventurer
Ship Capacity:

Tour operated in:
English
Interests:

Cultural, Photography

This tour is no longer available

Tour Overview

SAVE 40% WHEN YOU BOOK BY 29 MARCH 2024!*

Join expedition cruise pioneers Heritage Expeditions onthe ultimate voyage of discovery as we sail remote, uncharted waters in the search for rare and elusive pelagic seabirds and cetaceans from Port Vila to Hobart. Specially designed with birders, whale, dolphin and cruise enthusiasts and adventurers in mind this pelagic voyage offers a rare opportunity to sample an extraordinary cross section of the southwestern Pacific and contribute to citizen science. Our 9-day sea journey begins in Port Vila, Vanuatu, from where we will sail immediately offshore, crossing to the north of New Caledonia, past the super remote Chesterfield Reefsand from there towards Australian waters and southbound, far offshore, all the way to Hobart, Tasmania.

In areas with promising oceanographic features, or that we feel may be home to particularly desirable species, we will pause along our journey to try and obtain better observations of some of the seabirds which frequent these remote sections of ocean.

As we transit far offshore through the deep waters of the Coral Sea south to the edge of the Southern Ocean we will be able to witness an astounding diversity of sea birds and, hopefully, cetaceans as well. Much of our journey will be through waters poorly, or never before surveyed, for seabirds and marine mammals so we expect to make some intriguing discoveries for citizen science. By logging and sharing our sightings we will be able provide a better understanding of the incredible wildlife that is out there at this time of year.

With much of the voyage being in rarely explored Australian waters this expedition is a must-do for any Australian birders and naturalists wishing to visit some of the most far-flungand rarely visited areas of Australia. With such a diversity of species possible, including many rarely seen ones, it is sure to have wider appeal among anyone with an interest in pelagic birding or cetacean watching.

Join us as we chart new waters on an authentic expedition cruise and experience the thrill of sailing through unknown waters observing and recording poorly known birds and marine mammals.

*T&Cs apply, limited availability, book by 29 March 2024 or until sold out, cannot be combined with other discounts

Highlights

  • Sail remote

  • uncharted Australian waters in the search for rare and elusive pelagic seabirds and cetaceans on this 9-day birding cruise passing Chesterfield Reefs

  • through the deep waters of the Coral Sea south to the edge of the Southern Ocean

  • all locations of an astounding diversity of seabirds.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Port Villa, Vanuatu

Join Heritage Adventurer this afternoon at Vanuatu’s busy capital city of Port Vila where contemporary hotels, restaurants and markets abound. The captain and expedition team will be waiting to greet you on arrival and show you to your cabin. You will have time to settle in and familiarise yourself with the ship; we will also take the opportunity to introduce you to your expedition team and our voyage plans. You are invited to join the expedition team in the Observation Lounge and up on the Observation Deck as we set sail.

Day 2 : Days 2 To 8: At Sea

We have 7 days at sea to explore; in the more tropical waters we will look for the ephemeral feeding flocks which are typically dominated by species like Brown and Black Noddy, White and Sooty Tern, Red-footed, Masked and Brown Booby and Wedge-tailed Shearwater. These feeding frenzies are often attended by marauding Jaegers/Arctic Skua and Frigatebirds. However, a big focus will be on seeking out the low-density petrels that may or may not be associating with these flocks.

With the caveat that most of these waters are unstudied, some potential species that we know to be in this general area at this time of the year include a truly heart-pumping selection of names: Vanuatu Petrel, Magnificent Petrel, Polynesian Storm-Petrel and New Caledonian Storm Petrel. The latter was only very recently recognised as a species and was discovered and named on board a previous pioneering Heritage Expeditions voyage. Indeed, we should be sailing through more or less the entirety of that species’ currently known range and it will be very interesting to record how many we can find and where they are. If we are lucky, we may even spot another Heritage Expeditions discovery the Heritage Lava Petrel.

As we head south into subtropical seas, the numbers and variety of the much-desired Gadfly Petrels will surely increase and the possibilities among these deep-water specialists include such list birds as Kermadec, Providence, Mottled, White-necked, Black-winged, Gould’s, Collared, Gray-faced, Soft-plumaged, White-headed and Tahiti Petrel are all out there, to name only the most likely ones. Days filled with seeking out these species are as exciting as it gets for a seabirder. And if we want to dream big there are surely even rarer prizes lurking out there for those looking for Australian rarities – in such infrequently visited and far flung waters anything seems possible.

As we sail south towards our final destination of Tasmania, the water temperature decreases and the seabird diversity increases. Our first albatross will make an appearance in the final days and at least 8 species are possible at this time of year in the waters we are sailing. These may include the mighty Northern and Southern Royals, and Gibson’s and Snowy Wandering Albatrosses. Many other new species will also start appearing including the Giant Petrels and Cape and White-chinned Petrel along with various potential species of Prion.

It is even harder to anticipate what cetaceans we may encounter, but we can expect to see a good variety of dolphin species as more than a dozen are theoretically possible along the route we travel. We should also have reasonably good opportunities for at least fleeting encounters with some of the very poorly-known Beaked Whale species, along with some of the larger whales, especially Sperm Whale.

Day 9: Hobart, Australia

Early this morning we will arrive in Hobart, capital of Australia’s Island state of Tasmania and bustling port town rich in culture and colonial history with a renowned foodie scene all wrapped in stunning waterfront surrounds. After a final breakfast we bid farewell to our fellow voyagers and take a complimentary coach transfer to Hobart International Airport. In case of unexpected delays due to weather and/or port operations we ask you not to book any onward travel until after midday. Note: During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed.

Ship Details

Heritage Adventurer

Image Of Ship

Heritage Adventurer is a true pioneering expedition vessel of exceptional pedigree. Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising' due to her celebrated history and refined design, she was purpose-built for adventure in 1991 at Finland's Rauma shipyard and specifically designed for Polar exploration.

Setting a peerless standard in authentic expedition travel, Heritage Adventurer (formerly known as MS Hanseatic) combines the highest passenger ship iceclass rating (1A Super) with an impressive history of Polar exploration. Having held records for the most northern and southern Arctic and Antarctic navigations, and for traversing both the Northwest and Northeast Passages, makes Heritage Adventurer perfect for pioneering New Zealand-based Heritage Expeditions signature experiential expedition travel.

Originally designed to accommodate 184 guests, Heritage Adventurer now welcomes just 140 expeditioners ensuring spacious, stylish and comfortable voyages, while a fleet of 14 Zodiacs ensures all guests are able to maximise their expedition adventure. Heritage Adventurer proudly continues our traditions of exceptional, personalised expedition experiences as Heritage Expeditions flagship.

Ship Name:

Heritage Adventurer

Draft:

4.97 metres

Shipyard:

Rauma, Finland

Year Built:

1991

Maximum Speed:

15 knots

Gross Tonnage:

8,378gt

Engines:

3,940 horsepower (x2)

Length:

124 metres

Zodiacs:

14

Beam:

18 metres

Classification:

Lloyds 1AS, GL E4

Cruising Speed:

12 knots

Accommodation:

140 guests

Range:

8,600 nautical miles

Deck Plan

Deck Plan

Deck 5 Superior

Superior Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Worsley Suite

Located on Deck 6, Worsley Suites are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable chaise-style lounge suite, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, Heritage Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.

Main Deck Triple

Main Deck Triple Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Superior Single

Superior Single Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Superior Triple

Superior Triple Cabins on Deck 5 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, two single beds and one Pullman bed which folds down from the wall, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Deck 4 Superior

Superior Cabins on Deck 4 are a spacious 22m2 and feature large panoramic windows, king or two single beds, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

Heritage Suite

Located on Deck 6, Heritage Suites are an expansive 44m2 and feature large double panoramic windows, king bed, large living area with a sofa, coffee table and chairs and grand marble bathroom with a double basin, bathtub and shower, large writing desk, floor to ceiling cabinetry for storage and a flat screen entertainment system. Receive complimentary in-room dining, minibar replenished daily, free laundry, US$100.00 per person SPA credit, Heritage Expeditions keep cup, notebook and pen.

Main Deck Single

Main Deck Single Cabins on Deck 3 are a spacious 22m2 and feature two porthole windows, king bed, comfortable lounge, writing desk, private en-suite with shower, ample storage and a flat screen entertainment system.

What's Included

  • Local payment

  • pre/post cruise transfers

  • all on board ship accommodation with meals

  • house beer

  • wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions. Programme of lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists.

  • Pre/post cruise transfers

What's Not Included

  • All items of a personal nature

  • laundry

  • gratuities. International/domestic flights

  • drinks

  • visas and travel insurance.

Check out our Q&As

  • What fitness level is required?

    Guests are required to have a reasonable level of fitness in order to participate in landings. While not strenuous, travellers who participate on excursions must be able to climb a ship-side gangway, get in and out of Zodiacs and be able to stand unaided. Each landing and excursion caters to all fitness levels ranging from easy to challenging, ultimately each guest is able to decide how active or relaxing their voyage is.

  • Is any clothing included?

    Thermally-insulated Muck Boots are provided for use on all our Southern Ocean voyages while guests travelling to the Ross Sea are supplied with an Antarctic grade jacket during their time in Antarctica.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies

  • Is there a doctor on board?

    Yes, on Heritage Adventurer there is an on board doctor with a small infirmary and on many voyages a First Responder will travel with guests on excursions. Heritage Explorer does not have a doctor on board, however our crew are trained in first aid.

  • Are drinks included?

    Yes, house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on all Heritage Expeditions voyages. Complimentary drinks can also be enjoyed during special events on board while bar purchases can also be charged to your stateroom.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Travelling with Heritage Expeditions is to travel responsibly. As biologists and ornithologists, we are intimately aware of the many issues that confront animals and their habitats, the world's oceans and isolated ethnic groups. We also take action: we actively contribute to the conservation of the places we visit in several ways; we 'buy local' and employ locally; we make sure that travellers are respectful of local customs and traditions; and we dispose of waste responsibly.

  • Is there a gym on board?

    Yes, Heritage Adventurer has a gym, pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and Spa on Deck 7. While there is no gym on Heritage Explorer, guests have plenty of opportunity to stretch their legs on shore or take the kayaks out, weather permitting.

  • What is the onboard currency?

    Heritage Adventurer operates in US$ while Heritage Explorer is NZ$.

  • Does a single supplement apply?

    Heritage Adventurer has 20 dedicated single cabins (12 x Main Deck Single Staterooms on Deck 3 and 8 x Superior Single Staterooms on Deck 5). Heritage Adventurer also has the option of guests sharing in our Main Deck Triple (Deck 3) and Superior Triple (Deck 5) Staterooms. There may also be the option to share a Deck 4 or Deck 5 Superior Stateroom with another solo-travelling guest of the same gender. Heritage Explorer has 2 dedicated single cabins, Wandering, and if these are booked there may be availability to book a Salvin’s Twin/Double or Buller’s as a single at 1.8 times the published per person rate.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Heritage Expeditions was formed in 1985.

  • Is there Wi-Fi on board?

    Yes, there is Wi-Fi available on both ships. Heritage Adventurer has a connection via satellite and vouchers can be purchased from reception. Wi-Fi is included on Heritage Explorer.

  • Are all excursions included?

    Yes, all standard excursions are included in the voyage cost. All you will need to pay for on board is anything of a personal nature, laundry, drinks and gratuities.

Reviews of this operator

Anne Carroll (Google Reviewer)  

I’ve just returned to Canada...

06-Sep-2023

I’ve just returned to Canada after an absolutely stupendous trip to the Kimberley region of Western Australia aboard the Heritage Adventurer. Everything from booking the trip to exiting the ship on our last day was first class and run like a well-oiled machine. The guides were informed, interesting, interested, enthusiastic, friendly, and made us guests feel like we were part of the ship family. Every day I wondered how they could top the daily activities, and the next day was another mind-blowing experience. The daily recaps were well-presented and always so interesting. We always knew what was coming up next - everything was very well organized. The camaraderie amongst the guides was obvious and that translated into a truly remarkable experience for me and the many other guests I met and befriended on board. The ship crew were always smiling and quickly learned our names and preferences. To a person, they were delightful and couldn’t have done more to ensure a fabulous experience for all. Great staff, lovely ship and absolutely amazing daily experiences. Wildlife, stunning landscapes, ancient art sites, and guides who explain in detail what we are seeing whether it’s insects, birds, rocks, whales, crocodiles, plants, fish and so much more. I came away with a much deeper appreciation for nature and how we humans are affected by and have an effect on nature. The cruise was ten days, but it felt like I had a month worth of experiences. I’d jump at the chance to explore any place with this company. I’m now hooked on the small ship cruise experience! Thank you Heritage Expeditions!

Sally Adams  

In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Ross Sea Antarctica “A Fantastic Voyage!”

01-Mar-2023

It was a fantastic voyage! The weather was amazing, the ship was stable, all the staff were terrific, the lectures were really interesting the food was excellent & I met many wonderful fellow travellers, some of whom I am keeping in touch with. And now I am belatedly reading a book about the Antarctic explorers it means a lot more, having been to the area, seen the huts etc. So thank you very much for a memorable experience.

Heritage Expeditions Customer
Emily P  

The Best of New Zealand: An Intimate Exploration Cruise of New Zealand's Islands “One of the greatest experiences of my life!”

01-Mar-2023

“The expedition was one of the greatest experiences of my life. We journeyed to many incredible parts of Aotearoa that I wouldn't have otherwise sailed to, hiked, or photographed. I loved how the daily itinerary responded to the weather conditions and different abilities so that we could all have a meaningful time in each place. The vessel is stunning and the crew took excellent care of us, as did the expedition team. Getting to know them and our fellow adventurers was a special part of the trip. It still feels like a dream!”

Heritage Expeditions Customer
Graham Barrie (Google Reviewer)  

Have just booked a trip...

28-May-2021

Have just booked a trip later in the year and the service I had with the staff and Emma in particular has been wonderful. Thank you 😊

Lorraine Knowles (Google Reviewer)  

Our trip on Hertiage Explorer...

10-Oct-2022

Our trip on Hertiage Explorer to the Southern Fiords was awesome. There was not one aspect that we could fault. The food, crew, expeditions ashore, fellow passengers and the knowledge of our guides was A+. We will definately book with you again - 2024 around the Bay of Islands.

Kita Williams  

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: New Zealand and Australia's Subantarctic Islands “This was a Fantastic Trip - I Enjoyed Every Moment”

01-Mar-2023

This was a fantastic trip! From the glorious king penguins, to the sweet young elephant seal pups with their huge eyes, to the breathtakingly beautiful albatrosses on Campbell Island, and the colourful megaherbs, I enjoyed every moment. The sub-Antarctic islands are all very different, with unique landscapes and characteristics that were wonderful to experience. It was great to watch the lectures on board the ship, and our guides were very knowledgeable, helpful, fun and organised. We were so spoiled with the delicious meals and almost endless choices on board as well! The ship became a very cozy, familiar place and I enjoyed meeting some wonderful guests and exploring or cruising around in Zodiacs together. This trip really was a photographer's paradise, the wildlife and landscapes were incredible. Thank you Heritage Expeditions, I hope to join you again in the future!

Heritage Expeditions Customer
Chris Verstappen (Google Reviewer)  

A travel company that makes...

04-Oct-2017

A travel company that makes expedition cruising available to remote places on earth. I had the opportunity to go on a trip to the South Pacific in April 2017. A truly remarkable and well organized expedition and for sure a company I will come back to for more of their trips.

Brent Narbey (Google Reviewer)  

I had the trip of...

21-Dec-2017

I had the trip of a lifetime, the boat, crew and expedition leaders were WORLD CLASS! We cruised from Papua New Guinea through the Solomon Islands (Melanesia) for two weeks. The wildlife was wonderful as the indigenous peoples were friendly - Cant wait to do another one of their trips. Thanks for everything!

KATHRYN NORDLING (Google Reviewer)  

Took the Feb 2024 28-day...

24-Apr-2024

Took the Feb 2024 28-day journey to Antarctica via NZ Sub Arctic Islands. Paid for deck 6 suite, expensive. Deck 3 had their potholes coved for a great part of the journey because of the rough seas, which are unavoidable. Choices to be made! I kept a journal, and what it boils down to is a great amount of time spent for very little time seeing penguins, huts which are in historically very cold areas. We got to spend 10 min. In each hut visited (we didn't get to all listed in the itinerary), with 6 minutes taken up by a guide talking...so 4 min on your own to look. We were ushered in small groups of 6. Plus, you are given a flash light to hold, which right away limits your ability to take a photo since you are NOT ALLOWED TO SET ANYTHING ON THE GROUND. That goes for the huts as well as anytime you may opt for the very few hikes (2) hikes off the ship. Those on board who were with a photography group were given priority with more information sessions. The nightly lectures were less than insightful. They were given by our guides who doubled as Zodiac drivers. Some were pretty good speakers others, not so much. The food was pretty good, not gourmet. Snacks were cookies provided all day. No protein snacks or healthy snacks. Wait, staff, mainly Asian were friendly and efficient. The rooms: clean, but some windows are rust streaked. Mine was fine on the 6th level. The bath rooms are probably one of the room' best features. The shower was great. Never any water issues. Forget individually controlling your room temp. Lower decks cold, and my room temp could vary by 10 degrees 68 to 78. I did not participate in the pool plunge or the Artic Polar sea plunge. I think some participated out of desperation to just DO something. Don't expect to visit all the places mentioned in the brochure. None of the individual counry Stations in Antarctica allow visitors. Make note of that. That is not make clear in the brochure. All staff members/guides were cheerful and helpful. The scenery was spectacular. You will get many pics of icebergs, rough seas and some cute penguins, and seals... along with abundant Snow Petrel and various Albatross species. If you have narrow feet, try and bring your own gumboots, theirs are for wide feet. Oh yeah, we had injuries on board, so be prepared.

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Heritage Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of heritage expeditions charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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