Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia
Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia
Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia
9 Days Starting in Port Vila and ending in Hobart
Visiting: Australia, Vanuatu
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
Heritage AdventurerGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
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.
Highlights
Itinerary
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
Ship Overview
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 Details
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 Plans
Deck Plan
Deck Plan
Cabins
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
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Local payment
Local payment is included in the tour package.
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Pre/post cruise transfers
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On board ship accommodation with meals
All on board ship accommodation with meals is included.
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House beer
House beer is included in the package.
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Wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner are included.
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All expedition shore excursions
All expedition shore excursions are included.
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Programme of lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists
A programme of lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists is included.
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all on board ship accommodation with meals
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house beer
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wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions. Programme of lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists.
What's Not Included
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Items of a personal nature
All items of a personal nature are not included.
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Laundry
Laundry services are not included.
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Drinks
Drinks other than house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities are not included.
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International/domestic flights
International and domestic flights are not included.
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Visas and travel insurance
Visas and travel insurance are not included.
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All items of a personal nature
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laundry
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drinks
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gratuities. International/domestic flights
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visas and travel insurance.
Mode of Transport
Travel aboard the Heritage Adventurer, sailing through remote and uncharted waters from Port Vila, Vanuatu to Hobart, Australia. The journey includes pre/post cruise transfers and all expedition shore excursions.
Accommodation
Enjoy comfortable on-board ship accommodation with all meals included, featuring house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. The ship offers a range of amenities to ensure a pleasant stay during your expedition.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Seabirds & Cetaceans of Australasia tour?
During the tour, you can expect to see a variety of seabirds such as Brown and Black Noddy, White and Sooty Tern, Red-footed, Masked and Brown Booby, and Wedge-tailed Shearwater. You may also encounter Jaegers/Arctic Skua, Frigatebirds, and a range of petrels including Vanuatu Petrel, Magnificent Petrel, Polynesian Storm-Petrel, and New Caledonian Storm Petrel. As you head south, you might see albatross species like Northern and Southern Royals, and Gibson’s and Snowy Wandering Albatrosses. Additionally, you can expect to see various dolphin species and possibly some Beaked Whale species and larger whales like Sperm Whale.
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What activities are included during the days at sea?
During the days at sea, the focus will be on seeking out and observing various seabird species and cetaceans. You will have opportunities to watch feeding flocks of seabirds, look for low-density petrels, and possibly spot rare species. The expedition team will guide you in these activities, and you will also have the chance to attend lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists.
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What should I expect on the first day of the tour in Port Vila, Vanuatu?
On the first day in Port Vila, Vanuatu, you will join the Heritage Adventurer in the afternoon. The captain and expedition team will greet you and show you to your cabin. You will have time to settle in and familiarize yourself with the ship. The expedition team will introduce themselves and outline the voyage plans. You are invited to join the team in the Observation Lounge and on the Observation Deck as the ship sets sail.
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What happens on the final day of the tour in Hobart, Australia?
On the final day, you will arrive early in the morning in Hobart, Tasmania. After a final breakfast, you will bid farewell to your fellow voyagers and take a complimentary coach transfer to Hobart International Airport. It is advised not to book any onward travel until after midday in case of unexpected delays due to weather or port operations.
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Are there any special lectures or educational programs during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a program of lectures by noted birding guides and naturalists. These lectures will provide valuable insights into the wildlife and natural history of the regions you will be exploring.
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What meals and drinks are included in the tour?
The tour includes all on-board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
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Are there any additional costs not included in the tour price?
Yes, additional costs not included in the tour price are all items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities, international/domestic flights, visas, and travel insurance.
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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.
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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What is the onboard currency?
Heritage Adventurer operates in US$ while Heritage Explorer is NZ$.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Heritage Expeditions was formed in 1985.
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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.
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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.
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Friday - Saturday
Nov 15, 2024 - Nov 23, 2024Book with Confidence
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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.
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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.