One of the few operators allowed to travel the far-flung isles of the Southern Ocean, join us on a journey through the Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand, as well as Macquarie Island. Observe several albatross species, huge colonies of penguins, and island endemics including the Macquarie Island cormorant and Campbell Island snipe.
Mike Messick
Cofounder & Expedition Leader
Mike is one of the original cofounders of Zegrahm Expeditions. He was raised in Switzerland and began working in expedition travel during a summer break from college. He received a degree from Skidmore College in bio/psychology where he graduated in 1985. That same year Mike embarked on a full-time career in adventure travel. With nearly 35 year’s experience, Mike is considered the most experienced expedition leader in the industry. Mike has conducted research at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in its onshore laboratory and aboard one if its research vessels, he is a member of The Explorers Club, holds a US Coast Guard captain’s license, and received his scuba instructor certificate from NAUI. When not leading expeditions, Mike lives in Salt Lake City and spends his free time traveling around the globe.
Mike's Blog Posts
Where in the World is Niuatoputapu?
All In for Subtropical Asia
Mike's Upcoming Expeditions
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Sub-Antarctic Islands of New Zealand
January 16 — February 2, 2020 -
Philippines with Palau & Taiwan
February 29 — March 16, 2020On this exotic Philippines tour, explore mangrove forests and scenic coastlines on numerous Zodiac excursions, while nature hikes and snorkeling and diving excursions reveal the amazing biodiversity of these isolated islands. A special highlight is the opportunity to interact with native cultures whose customs are reflected in their intricate tribal dress, colorful dances, and rich folklore.
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Wild Kamchatka with the Kuril Islands
May 20 — June 4, 2020Search for the region's prolific wildlife on Zodiac cruises and naturalist-guided walks. Witness huge concentrations of seabirds in a frenzy of breeding activity, step ashore on beaches crowded with northern fur seals and Steller's sea lions, and photograph stunning scenery, including wildflower studded tundra backdropped by volcanic peaks.
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Circumnavigation of the Black Sea
June 26 — July 10, 2020Centuries of history and architecture come to life as you discover the countries surrounding the Black Sea—Turkey, Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, Romania and Bulgaria—and its busy bazaars, archeological treasures, and stunning landscapes.
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Melanesia, Solomon Islands & Vanuatu
September 10 — September 27, 2020Stretching from New Guinea to Fiji, Melanesia encompasses thousands of islands and a rich variety of cultures. On this voyage you’ll discover remote island communities where ancient traditions are preserved and visits from outsiders are few and far between. You’ll also explore Melanesia’s marine world—a pristine haven for three-quarters of the world’s coral species and an astounding 3,000 species of fish.