Heritage Expeditions

05/06/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our day was spent enjoying the many attractions of Niigata, first arriving at the magical Shishinokura Forest. Next, we visited the birders and botanist paradise of Fukushimagata Wetlands, marvelling at the hundreds of birds and fauna species present.

Those wanting to indulge in art headed to The Niigata City History Museum and The Northern Culture Museum, before arriving at the The Niitsu Art Museum which had an exhibition showcasing Ainu culture through the popular Manga Golden Kamuy.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/tnxzrw6n
Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

05/06/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was a fantastic day in Akita as we spent the day enjoying the delights the region had to offer.

We visited the stunning Akita Museum of Art, before heading to the Namahage Museum to learn of the fun and frightening legend of Namahage. The afternoon saw us explore the scenic Suishin Garden, which was alive with birdsong and stunning foliage.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/4s4jubay
Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

04/06/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was an exciting day exploring the region of Hokkaido. As usual on our journey, we had a range of fantastic options to choose how to spend our day.

Those wanting to explore the region's parks visited the Shikotsu-Toya National Park and ascended the Usuzan Ropeway to enjoy grand-scale views from Mount Usu, before heading to Jigokudani, known as Hell Valley.

Others headed to the Upopoy National Ainu Museum and Park, learning fascinating insights into the history and culture of the Ainu people, indigenous to northern Japan.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/c6xd5tr6
Images © E Bell & J Mishina, Heritage Expeditions

04/06/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Japan’s National Parks, Art & Culture voyage continued with an action-packed day in Hachinohe, where we had a range of options to choose from.

Some explored the gorgeous parks of the region, including Towada-Hachimantai National Park and Mount Towada. Others immersed themselves in art at the Hachinohe City Museum and Towada Art Center, one of Japan’s best contemporary art museums.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/2rjd64bw

Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

03/06/2024

“It’s funny how everything else seems so much louder when you’re holding your breath in the bush. The bird song seems to echo, the cicadas become deafening, and every step of a giant, ancient lizard a few metres away seems to resonate and reverberate.”

Nick Walton relives his time on board our Indonesian Explorer voyage, exploring the idyllic untouched paradise of the region's many islands, being the first international expedition ship to visit Buru Island, and the variety of amazing wildlife experiences.

Read the full feature here - https://alphamen.asia/indonesia-heritage-expeditions/

Nick Walton explores eastern Indonesia with Heritage Expeditions, delving into a dynamic landscape that’s only just opening to tourism.

31/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Japan’s National Parks, Art & Culture expedition continued in the port city of Ishinomaki. We had a range of ways to spend the day, visiting one of Japan’s three most famous views in Matsushima Bay and the surrounding islands, the 2011 Tsunami Memorial Museum, Ishinomori Manga Museum and tried our hand at hand-painting the region's iconic Kokeshi dolls.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/3m22xerf

Images © E Bell & I, Wilson, Heritage Expeditions

31/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was a fantastic day exploring one of Tokyo’s famed ‘treasure islands, Izu Oshima. We were welcomed by celebrity politician and Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike and set off to explore the wonders of this volcanic landscape.

We climbed Mount Mihara, marvelling at the lava flows and geo-rock formations, before heading to the towering 700-metre-long Great Road Cut Geological site.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/yccwcp7w

Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

30/05/2024

We’re thrilled to see Our Galapagos of the Southern Ocean voyage, which visits New Zealand and Australia’s Subantarctic Islands, make Travel & Luxury's perfect 10 wildlife spotting voyages!

Check out the feature below.

30/05/2024

Where’s Wally – penguin edition! 🐧

📸: Cathy Finch

30/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
We had a range of options to spend our day in the scenic Ise-Shima prefecture! Those opting to explore the range of parks set off first, heading to the Ise-Shima Skyline Observatory, enjoying a traditional bento box at Daiki, before soaking in the grand scale views of Mount Yokoyama.

Those choosing to indulge in local art headed to Shogahama Little Park leaving wishes at the Tsubasu Bell and shrine, then to the Ise Contemporary Art Museum where works by Atsuo Okamoto were on display, and finally touring Osatsu village, which is famous for its ama divers.

Read more on our website.

Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

28/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Japan’s National Parks, Art & Culture expedition was off to a fantastic start in Osaka!

First, we visited the scenic Minoh Park, where an abundance of wildlife and a towering 33-metre-high waterfall greeted us. We then visited the bustling dining district of Dotonbori before heading to the iconic Osaka Castle, marvelling at the impressive architecture of this 16th-century shogunate castle.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/5edee583

Images © E Bell, Heritage Expeditions

28/05/2024

We are thrilled to announce New Zealand music icon Don McGlashan is joining us on our In The Wake of Scott & Shackleton voyage into the heart of Antarctica, the Ross Sea, in 2026.

To join Don and support our friends at The Arts Foundation, you can bid on their Te Tumu Toi digital auction and help fundraise for a thriving arts community in Aotearoa.

Find out more below.

The chance to spend nearly four weeks at sea with Don McGlashan and a stay in a luxury Christchurch lodge are up for grabs with the Arts Foundation’s annual auction.

27/05/2024

A teaser of the experience onboard our flagship vessel, Heritage Adventurer 🚢

Often referred to as the 'Grande Dame of Expedition Cruising’, she is purpose-built for travelling to some of the most remote places in the world. Whether you’re discovering the jewels of Antarctica, the sights of Japan or anywhere in between, you’ll enjoy a spacious and comfortable voyage with your travelling companions.

📹: Ewen Bell

www.heritage-expeditions.com/about/ships/heritage-adventurer

24/05/2024

Meet some of the beautiful birdlife that call Norfolk Island home 🐥

🦜 Norfolk Robin

🦜 Golden Whistler

🦜 White Tern


All stunningly captured by

Discover more on Norfolk Island here – www.heritageexpeditions.com/destinations/western-pacific/norfolk-island/

23/05/2024

The historic huts of Antarctica are always a privilege to experience and offer a journey through time to the Heroic Age of Antarctic Exploration.

Check out these stunning images of Shackleton’s and Scott’s huts captured on our recent voyages into the heart of Antarctica, The Ross Sea.

Images © M. Maloney, & F. Wardle, Heritage Expeditions

18/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Sacred Japan & South Korea voyage ended with a fabulous day on Sado Island. We boarded the iconic Tarai-bune and had a go at paddling, before exploring the charming Shukunegi Village.

In the afternoon, we marched to the beat of our own drum at the Taiko Centre. We marvelled at the two giant drums made from a 600-year-old Japanese Zelkova Tree, before trying our hand at taiko drumming.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/2c4vbxuy

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions

17/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
The snow-covered Mt Hakusan greeted us as we arrived at Kanazawa. It was an exciting morning visiting the bustling Omicho Markets and the feudal-inspired Nagamachi Samurai District.

In the afternoon, we admired the resolute Kanazawa Castle before soaking in the beautiful sights of one of the three great gardens of Japan, Kenrokuen Garden.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/bd56xz89

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions

17/05/2024

Have you checked out our 2025-26 season Second Wave Sale? We have up to 20% off some of our iconic voyages in the South Pacific, Subantarctic Islands, and the Ross Sea. T&Cs apply.

Find out more here - https://tinyurl.com/bdvvnmrx

16/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Sacred Japan & South Korea adventure saw us return to Japan, arriving in Sakaiminato. We visited the stunning mounds of Adachi Garden and the Museum of Art before checking out the fantastic pottery collection of Rosanjin Gallery.

We then headed to the Peony-filled Yuushien Garden on Daikonshima Island. Taking time to enjoy the scenery, we enjoyed a stunning walk through this iconic garden of Japan.

As we departed Sakaiminato, we were farewelled by the local community who put on a fantastic show.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/3ym2uevu

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions

16/05/2024

We’re proud to support our friends at The Arts Foundation in their fundraising efforts at the inaugural Arts Gala at the Auckland Town Hall.

This is a fantastic opportunity to support a thriving New Zealand arts community. Find out how you can get involved below.

16/05/2024

This Southern Elephant Seal keeps on winning at hide & seek!

📸: Kate Sutherland (FB)

15/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Sacred Japan & South Korea adventure saw us arrive at ‘Hyundai City’, Ulsan.

We headed to the stunning Tumuli Park to visit the tombs of the Kingdom of the Heavenly Horse. After an authentic Korean lunch at a nearby restaurant, we ventured to the Bulguksa Buddhist Temple and Art Gallery which hosted statues of the Buddha in various incarnations. As the Buddha’s birthday was approaching, racks of colourful lanterns were hung throughout the temple, providing a feast for the senses.

To finish a fantastic day in South Korea, we took a scenic stroll through the Taehwagang River Bamboo Forest.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/8bhw9paw

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions

15/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was a sensational day in Hagi as we visited the Yoshika Taibi Memorial Museum, watching the local potters working and purchasing the stunning pieces. We then enjoyed a walking tour of the Kikuya Residence, immersing ourselves in the traditional architecture of the Edo Period.

In the afternoon, we travelled out of Hagi to visit the Akiyoshidai Plateau, a breathtaking natural world of limestone caves filled with hidden secrets to explore.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/23ef9cms

Images © C. Finch & J. Rogers, Heritage Expeditions

14/05/2024

Congratulations to the Department of Conservation on celebrating 20 years since the groundbreaking predator eradication programme on Campbell Island.

Heritage Expeditions guide, and former DOC ranger, Lindsay Wilson relives his time on Campbell Island undertaking the programme, six times bigger than any island attempted before.

Check out the article below.

We’re celebrating 20 years of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest predator free project to-date. Hear from former DOC ranger, Lindsay Wilson, who experienced the world first rat eradication on Campbell Island.

14/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was a poignant walk-through history as we visited the Hiroshima Peace Park. We had a chance to reflect on the terrible tragedy that occurred, and appreciate the memorials established for the victims.

In the afternoon we visited the iconic ‘floating’ Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, where a local deer population provided great company.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/bdz7x5cb

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions

14/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
It was a fantastic day of art and culture on our Sacred Japan & South Korea voyage.
First, we immersed ourselves in one of the three finest feudal-period gardens, Okayama Korakuen Garden, which provided stunning views of Okayama Castle. We then visited the Ohara Museum of Art, which houses a fantastic collection of Western and Japanese art.

In the afternoon we visited Naoshima Island and experienced an abundance of art and installations. The iconic red and yellow pumpkin sculptures lined the streets, and the Benesse House Museum provided a fantastic glimpse into the culture of the region.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/3pbva3ua

Images © C. Finch & J.Rogers, Heritage Expeditions

14/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Sacred Japan & South Korea adventure was underway in the bustling city of Osaka. First, we visited Minoh Park marvelling at the iconic waterfall, named after its resemblance to winnowing.

After navigating the lively streets, we enjoyed a local lunch before heading to Sakai to watch masters craft Sakai knives. In the afternoon, we returned to Osaka, marvelling at the resolute Osaka Castle and soaking in the sites of the feudal era.

Read more here – https://tinyurl.com/2yzendxw

Images © Heritage Expeditions

13/05/2024

It’s only three months until our Kimberley Explorer season begins – have you got your spot yet? 🚢

Here’s a video of what you can expect on an expedition to Australia’s iconic Kimberley Coast.

Think towering red cliffs, horizontal waterfalls, ancient Aboriginal rock art, and magnificent reefs. See saltwater crocodiles and birds of prey one day, humpback whales and sea turtles the next. Forge deep connections with Australia’s cultural and natural landscapes, on what will be an unforgettable adventure 🐊🐢🌏

You’ll be dwarfed by the sheer scale and power of nature – in all the best ways.

Join us aboard Heritage Adventurer, and tick an iconic destination off the bucket list!

Find out more here - www.heritage-expeditions.com/destinations/kimberley-cruise/kimberley-explorer-cruise/

12/05/2024

Who else saw the fabulous display of Aurora Australis over the weekend? Check out these beautiful shots of Heritage Explorer at Endeavour Inlet in the Marlborough Sounds docked for some photo opportunities.

Images © S Tranmer, Heritage Expeditions

10/05/2024

CAPTAIN’S LOG ALERT!
Our Eternal Japan & South Korea adventure ended spectacularly as we explored the sprawling cities of Okayama and Kurashiki.

First, we visited one of the three finest feudal period gardens in Japan, Okayama Korakuen Garden. Walking through the stunning garden was a delight against a backdrop of flowing streams, distinctive trees and the towering Okayama Castle.

In the afternoon, we enjoyed a traditional bento box at the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, before checking out one of the first repositories of Western art in Japan, The Ohara Museum of Art.

Read more here - https://tinyurl.com/yc7s85rh

Images © C. Finch, Heritage Expeditions