Heritage Expeditions Resumes Voyages for a Kiwis-only Summer Southern Ocean Season

8 October 2020 Christchurch-based small ship expedition company Heritage Expeditions is celebrating the return of 50-guest expedition vessel and flagship Spirit of Enderby/Professor Khromov for a Kiwis-only Southern Ocean programme this summer.

Heritage Expeditions’ Directors Aaron and Nathan Russ described the Government’s decision to allow the company to resume operations as a huge win not only for the company which pioneered expedition cruising back in 1985, but also for the country’s economy and travel industry, ongoing scientific research and COVID-bound New Zealanders looking for an overseas-style holiday experience without having to leave the country.

“This decision allows us to continue doing what we love, and have been doing for more than 35 years,” says Aaron. “Sharing the furthest reaches of New Zealand’s spectacular backyard with inquisitive Kiwis.”

Describing the lengthy process as “necessary in protecting the health and wellbeing of all New Zealanders”, Nathan says he is now looking forward to concentrating his efforts on “doing what we do best, providing world-class expedition experiences”.

Heritage Expeditions Southern Ocean season is expected to generate around $5 million for the New Zealand economy and help protect jobs, support local businesses including the struggling travel industry, as well as continuing ongoing research the company is involved in with crown research institute GNS Science and the World Meterological Organisation. It will also continue the company’s long association and support of the Department of Conservation providing vital links for its ongoing conservation and research at some of the country’s most remote locations.

Heritage Expeditions Southern Ocean season includes 7-day expeditions to Fiordland and Stewart Island and 8 – 13 day voyages to New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands. The company is also looking forward to the opportunity to return to the heart of Antarctica, the Ross Dependency, New Zealand’s claim on Antarctica, in January and February.