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WildWings, 577 Fishponds Road, Fishponds, Bristol. BS16 3AF.UK
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Nearly 2 million seabirds breed on this tiny island group in the centre of the Pacific Ocean including the world’s largest colonies of Laysan and Black-footed Albatross. Closed to the public for many years the US Fish and Wildlife service re-opened the area in 2008 for a very few lucky people. Just seven departures were on offer, with a maximum of just 16 people each time, and they filled up in less than 24 hours so early booking is imperative for 2009 and beyond!
The atoll consists of three islands and a shallow white sand lagoon, sheltered from the open ocean by a coral reef. In addition to the breeding seabirds and visiting shorebirds (including Bristle-thighed Curlew and Wandering Tattler) it is also home to the endemic Hawaiian Monk Seal, Pacific Green Turtles and is frequently visited by Spinner Dolphins plus offers superb snorkelling with a myriad of colourful tropical fish. Strict rules apply to access ashore, all to protect the wildlife of course and our small group trips also allow an opportunity to assist the scientists and staff in their ongoing work for those that wish. In addition to the fore mentioned two species of North Pacific albatross, Midway also sometimes hosts Short-tailed Albatross, in 2008, a non-breeding sub-adult pair were present throughout most of March, and were seen displaying to each other, hopefully in preparation for future breeding. November to July is the peak albatross breeding season and March/April time offers the highest variety and numbers of breeding seabirds of all. In fact, when you open the door of your room, you will see courting and nesting albatross’s everywhere! A veritable paradise for photographers, remote island and seabird fanatics alike.
Breeding seabirds of Midway Atoll
Laysan Albatross
Black-footed Albatross
Christmas Shearwater
Wedge-tailed Shearwater
Bonin Petrel
Red-tailed Tropicbird
White-tailed Tropicbird
Brown Booby
Masked Booby
Red-footed Booby
Great Frigatebird
Brown Noody
Black Noody
Sooty Tern
Gray-backed Tern
White Tern
Itinerary
Day 1: Fly Honolulu to Midway (special charter flight, 4.5 hours duration).
Days 2 – 7: Guided wildlife and historical sites excursions. Weather permitting, one visit will be made to nearby Eastern Island. One boat based snorkelling trip and unlimited beach snorkelling. Optional participation in service projects (eg beach litter clean-ups, seabird counts etc). Plenty of free time too, to take photos or just enjoy!
Day 8: Return flight Midway to Honolulu.
Note: The flights arrive and depart after dark on Midway, to minimise disturbance to the seabirds.
Holiday Information
Dates: 9th – 17th and 16th – 24th March, 6th – 14th and 13th – 21st April, April 27th – 5th May, 4th – 12th, 11th – 19th and 18th – 26th May, 8th – 16th June (a special family departure), 30th November – 8th December and 7th – 15th December 2009. Register your interest early!
Naturalist: Wayne Sentman or Breck Tyler.
Price : c£2699 per person sharing a twin room with private facilities.
Single supplement: No supplement for 2008, TBA for 2009.
Deposit: £350
Max group size: 15 plus naturalist/guide.
Price includes: Return economy class charter flights Honolulu – Midway Atoll, 7 nights accommodation in rooms with private facilities, guided excursions as per itinerary including services of naturalist guide throughout (transportation by golf cart), two boat excursions, all meals on Midway, taxes and fees.
Price excludes: Flights UK - Honolulu, fuel surcharges if levied, pre/post hotel in Honolulu, travel insurance, drinks, gratuities and other items of a personal nature. Golf Carts may be rented for US$25 per day, Bicycles for $5 a day. Snorkle gear can also be rented if required.
