Subantarctic Discovery

Aurora Expeditions
From
$15,295USD
p.p. in a Shared Cabin, Excludes Flights
Duration 15 Days / 14 Nights
Departure Dunedin, New Zealand
Destinations Ross Sea

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Subantarctic Islands of Australia and New Zealand—some of the most remote and ecologically significant destinations in the Southern Hemisphere. This immersive voyage takes you deep into the wild beauty of the antipodes, where rare wildlife and dramatic landscapes offer an expedition unlike any other.

Begin your adventure on Stewart and Ulva Islands, where flourishing endemic birdlife awaits. Keep an eye out for the elusive brown kiwi (southern tokoeka) and the curious, flightless weka. The vibrant red blooms of the rātā tree—often called the ‘southern Christmas tree’—add a festive charm to the landscape during summer months.

Cruise through Fiordland’s towering, glacial-carved Sounds, and take a Zodiac along the rugged shores of the Snares Islands, home to the rare Snares crested penguin and graceful Buller’s albatross. Heading farther south, you may land on mystical Campbell Island, where a boardwalk leads past megaherb fields to nesting colonies of the majestic southern royal albatross.

Explore the lush rātā forests of the Auckland Islands and learn about the human history of sealers, settlers, and explorers who once braved these wild shores.

This expedition is operated by Aurora Expeditions, renowned for their strong commitment to environmental responsibility and immersive exploration. Whether you travel aboard the Greg Mortimer, Sylvia Earle, or Douglas Mawson, you’ll enjoy expert-led excursions, small-group Zodiac adventures, and a variety of optional add-ons to personalise your experience.

At North South Voyages, we’re proud to partner with Aurora to offer this once-in-a-lifetime journey—designed to inspire a lifelong connection to nature and a deeper understanding of our planet’s most remote and remarkable places.

Unsure if this Subantarctic Discovery itinerary is right for you? Review our Antarctica destination overview for full details on seasonality, routes, ship selection, pricing, expedition inclusions and how North South Voyages can help make your Antarctica dream become reality.

Departures

Sort by: Price  |  Date
  • DateJan 02 - Jan 16, 2026
    Duration15 Days / 14 Nights
    SizeMedium (154 Guests)
    Stars5* Luxury
    Expeditions RatingExcellent
    Zodiacs & Embarkation15 Boats | 4 Points
    From$15,295USDp.p. in a Shared Cabin
    Cabin prices

Overview

Day 1 Arrive Dunedin
Day 2 Embarkation
Day 3 Stewart Island (Rakiura)
Day 4 Fiordland (Te Rua-o-te-moko)
Day 5 Snares Islands (Tini Heke)
Days 6-7 At Sea
Days 8-9 Macquarie Island
Day 10 At Sea
Days 11-13 New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands
Day 14 At Sea
Day 15 Disembark Dunedin

Itinerary

Inclusions

  • All airport transfers mentioned in the itinerary.
  • One night’s hotel accommodation including breakfast, in Dunedin on Day 1.
  • Onboard accommodation during voyage, including daily cabin service.
  • All meals, snacks, tea and coffee during voyage.
  • Beer, house wine and soft drinks with dinner.
  • Captain’s Farewell reception including four-course dinner, house cocktails, house beer and wine, non-alcoholic beverages.
  • All shore excursions and Zodiac cruises.
  • Educational lectures and guiding services provided by Expedition Team.
  • Complimentary access to onboard expedition doctor and medical clinic (initial consultation).
  • One 3-in-1 waterproof, polar expedition jacket.
  • Complimentary use of Muck Boots during the voyage.
  • Comprehensive pre-departure information.
  • Port surcharges, permits and landing fees.
  • Wi-Fi*.

Exclusions

  • International or domestic flights – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Transfers – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Airport arrival or departure taxes.
  • Passport, visa, reciprocity and vaccination fees and charges.
  • Travel insurance or emergency evacuation charges.
  • Hotel accommodation and meals – unless specified in the itinerary.
  • Optional excursions and optional activity surcharges.
  • All items of a personal nature, including but not limited to alcoholic beverages and soft drinks (outside of dinner service), gratuities, laundry services, personal clothing, medical expenses or phone charges.
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