They make up over two thirds of our planet’s surface area. They produce 70% of the oxygen we breathe. They are mysterious and magnificent, inspiring fables and legend. The world’s oceans have long been a source of fascination and wonder and the 8th June marks World Oceans Day celebrating the role of the oceans in our everyday life and inspiring action to protect and sustain marine resources.
Having operated the very first whale watching trips in Iceland back in 1993, we believe that responsible tourism goes a long way to helping appreciate our planet’s natural wonders, finding the balance between protecting habitats while enjoying life-enriching experiences. We also work with tourism partners who offer opportunities to actively participate in environmental research.
We’ve selected six amazing experiences to celebrate the wonder of our oceans, each providing memorable moments to be cherished.
Atlantic Ocean
Icebergs in Canada
Moments like this… marvel as icebergs float past Canada’s Newfoundland shoreline following a route known as ‘Iceberg Alley’.
Every year, from early spring through the summer, icebergs are on parade off the coast of Newfoundland in Eastern Canada. Visible from shore and on boat trips, these spectacular glacial giants of 10,000 year-old ice have broken away from glaciers in the Arctic and float south along the ocean current. The best time to see them is May to early June.
The waters off Canada’s Atlantic coast are also among the most productive in the world enticing up to 22 species of whale from blues in the Bay of Fundy to the world’s largest population of humpbacks off Newfoundland.
Arctic Ocean
Indian Ocean
Whale Sharks in Australia
Moments like this… catch your breath snorkelling next to a whale shark at Ningaloo Reef off Western Australia.
The Great Barrier Reef on Australia’s east coast may be the world’s largest living structure, but Western Australia’s Ningaloo Reef is a worthy rival and one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel with whale sharks from April to July. These gentle giants are sharks not whales making them the world’s largest fish. They don’t bite, but instead feed by filtering vast quantities of water through their gills consuming the tiniest ocean dwellers including small fish and plankton.
The largest state in Australia, WA, boasts countless stunning sandy beaches ensuring there is no shortage of picture perfect vantage points to watch spectacular sunsets night after night, as waves from the Indian Ocean wash ashore.
Pacific Ocean
Southern Ocean
Penguins in Antarctica
Moments like this… wonder at the torpedo-like speed of swimming gentoo penguins in contrast to their familiar waddle on land.
Also known as the Antarctic Ocean, the Southern Ocean comprises the world’s southernmost waters. Diverse and nutrient-rich, they support the full spectrum of marine life from krill to a plethora of cetacean species, including orca, fin, minke and humpback whale, plus of course, the icons of Antarctica, penguins. Four species can be found on the continent – gentoo, chinstrap, Adelie and emperor. Though not commonly associated with speed due to their apparent awkwardness on land, penguins at sea are adept swimmers with the gentoo by far the fastest.
Get Involved: Research in Antarctica
The MS Seaventure’s unique on-board custom built science laboratory is used in the Citizen Science programme. This provides an opportunity for passengers to help with real life scientific research.
Feeling inspired?
Our Travel Specialists are enthusiastic, dedicated, and passionate about our destinations and would love to help you create the perfect trip to suit your occasion. Send an enquiry or call on 01737 214 250. If you prefer a virtual face-to-face, request a video chat when you enquire.
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube
