Balleny Islands
in New Zealand

Balleny Islands

The Balleny Islands are a group of uninhabited islands located in the Southern Ocean off the coast of Antarctica. They are part of the Ross Dependency, an area of the Antarctic that is administered by New Zealand. The Balleny Islands are the northernmost group of the Antarctic Islands and are made up of two main islands, Young Island and Buckle Island, as well as several smaller islets.

The Balleny Islands are located at the northern end of the Ross Sea, about 300 kilometres (190 miles) north of the Scott Coast of Antarctica. They are also located about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) south of New Zealand's South Island. The islands are mostly covered in snow and ice and have a rugged, mountainous terrain.

The Balleny Islands have a long history of exploration and scientific research. In 1839, the British explorer James Clark Ross was the first European to sight the islands. He named them after his ship, the HMS Erebus, which was captained by William Balleny. In the early 1900s, the islands were used as a base for exploration of the Antarctic.

The Balleny Islands are also home to several species of seabirds and marine mammals, including Adelie penguins, southern elephant seals, and leopard seals. The islands are also a breeding ground for several species of whales, including humpback, minke, and blue whales.

The Balleny Islands are an important part of New Zealand's Antarctic heritage. They are protected as part of the Ross Sea Region Marine Protected Area, which was established in 2016. The MPA is the world's largest marine protected area and is designed to protect the unique and fragile environment of the Southern Ocean.

Experience Balleny Islands with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Balleny Islands. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Balleny Islands

The Balleny Islands in New Zealand have a cool and wet climate throughout the year. In the summer months, temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C, with high humidity and frequent showers. In the winter months, temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C, with snowfall occurring occasionally. The spring and autumn months are generally mild and wet, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 12°C. The islands are often subject to strong winds, with westerly gales being common in the winter months.

Cruise weather for Balleny Islands

Our weather forecast for Balleny Islands helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Galery: Balleny Islands

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