Macquarie Island

Geography

Located in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, halfway between New Zealand and Antarctica, Macquarie is 34 km long and 5 km wide.

Significance

A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geological features, including rocks from the Earth's mantle exposed above sea level.

Attractions

During nesting season, Macquarie is home to the entire royal penguin population. It is also one of the five remote islands constituting the Antipodes Subantarctic Islands tundra ecoregion.

Activities 

Macquarie is home to a permanent research base focusing on scientific studies, with limited access for tourists due to its remote location and environmental sensitivity.

;
Landing directly on sea ice from ice breaker ship

Join for FREE to view this content

Members get full access to this page and all of ExplorEarth's exclusive guides, stories and cruises.

BECOME A MEMBER

Already have an account? Log in

Or continue with:

Why create an account with ExplorEarth?

Landing directly on sea ice from ice breaker ship
1
Discover
  • Introduction to expedition cruises
  • Stories & Guides from leading travel writers
  • Wildlife & Birdlife Guides
  • Exclusive webinars
Sylvia Earle ship in Sam Ford Fjord Arctic Burnham Arlidge
2
Compare
  • Which destination is right for you
  • Expert guides to every region
  • Help choosing the right ship
  • Free Expert Advice
Walrus resting on sea ice with M/S Stockholm in the background, showcasing Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
3
Choose
  • Hundreds of expedition cruises to compare
  • Access exclusive offers and added-value
  • Expert Advice for the best cabins
  • Introductions to approved travel resellers for packaging
Landing directly on sea ice from ice breaker ship
1
Discover
  • Introduction to expedition cruises
  • Stories & Guides from leading travel writers
  • Wildlife & Birdlife Guides
  • Exclusive webinars
Sylvia Earle ship in Sam Ford Fjord Arctic Burnham Arlidge
2
Compare
  • Which destination is right for you
  • Expert guides to every region
  • Help choosing the right ship
  • Free Expert Advice
Walrus resting on sea ice with M/S Stockholm in the background, showcasing Arctic wildlife and expedition cruising.
3
Choose
  • Hundreds of expedition cruises to compare
  • Access exclusive offers and added-value
  • Expert Advice for the best cabins
  • Introductions to approved travel resellers for packaging