Auckland Island, Subantarctic, New Zealand
One of the world's most pristine wilderness islands, the Auckland Islands sit 465 km south of New Zealand and host extraordinary wildlife that exists almost nowhere else on Earth.
One of the world's most pristine wilderness islands, the Auckland Islands sit 465 km south of New Zealand and host extraordinary wildlife that exists almost nowhere else on Earth.
All access is by Zodiac (RIB) from an anchored ship; a DOC permit is required and only licensed expedition operators may land.
💡 Pro move: Landings are weather-dependent and may be cancelled at any time. Zodiacs-only cruising (no landing) may substitute if conditions deteriorate.
There is no pier or cruise terminal — all visits are by Zodiac tender from an anchored expedition ship.
| Cruise Line | Typical Berth / Arrival | Dock or Tender |
|---|---|---|
| Expedition lines (Ponant, Heritage, Lindblad, etc.) | Anchored off Enderby Island or in Carnley Harbour📍 | Tendered |
| Larger expedition ships | Musgrave Harbour anchorage, main Auckland Island📍 | Tendered |
All excursions are expedition-led wildlife and nature experiences; there are no commercial tour operators based ashore.
Walk to Sandy Bay on Enderby Island, home to one of the most important breeding colonies of the critically rare Hooker's sea lion (New Zealand sea lion). Large bulls and playful pups loll on the beach and well into the tussock.
Find subantarctic wildlife tours →A boardwalk trail winds through southern rātā forest to the northern cliffs of Enderby Island where Southern Royal Albatrosses nest. Seeing these vast birds at close range on their nests is a highlight of any subantarctic voyage.
Find albatross expedition tours →For days when landings are weather-limited, or as an add-on, Zodiacs cruise the dramatic basalt columns and cliff faces. Look for Auckland Island teal, shags, and fur seals hauled out on the rocks.
Find zodiac wildlife cruises →Enderby Island is a breeding ground for the endangered yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho). Guided walks to the forest fringe give a chance to spot these shy penguins returning from the sea — among the rarest penguins in the world.
Find penguin expedition cruises →All walks are guided and follow DOC-designated tracks on Enderby Island; no independent walking is permitted.
The main visitor track on Enderby Island links the sea lion beach at Sandy Bay with the albatross nesting cliffs in the north. Passes through rātā forest and open fellfield rich in megaherbs in summer.
🗺️ See full route in Maps →Climate normals for Auckland Island, Subantarctic, New Zealand (2014–2023 averages). Pack for the month you sail — highs, lows, and how many rainy days to expect.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainy Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 54°F / 12°C | 46°F / 8°C | 15 |
| Feb | 54°F / 12°C | 46°F / 8°C | 14 |
| Mar | 53°F / 12°C | 45°F / 7°C | 17 |
| Apr | 50°F / 10°C | 42°F / 6°C | 19 |
| May | 48°F / 9°C | 40°F / 4°C | 20 |
| Jun | 47°F / 8°C | 39°F / 4°C | 22 |
| Jul | 46°F / 8°C | 38°F / 3°C | 22 |
| Aug | 46°F / 8°C | 38°F / 3°C | 21 |
| Sep | 47°F / 8°C | 39°F / 4°C | 20 |
| Oct | 49°F / 9°C | 41°F / 5°C | 18 |
| Nov | 51°F / 11°C | 43°F / 6°C | 16 |
| Dec | 53°F / 12°C | 45°F / 7°C | 15 |
Source: Subantarctic oceanic climate normals (Enderby Island station)
Upcoming cruises that call at Auckland Island, Subantarctic, New Zealand. Dates, prices, and ports of call change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking.
Itineraries and prices change — always confirm with the cruise line before booking. Some links are affiliate links that may earn us a commission at no extra cost to you.