Steeple Jason Island

Steeple Jason lies at the far northwestern edge of the Falklands and carries what is generally reckoned the largest black-browed albatross colony on earth, birds nesting in a band several kilometres long down the island's western side, with rockhopper penguins among them. The island is owned by the Wildlife Conservation Society and kept as a reserve. Swell means landings succeed only occasionally. Grand Jason lies alongside and carries a substantial colony of its own, and the two are usually treated as one destination by the ships that reach them.

What you actually see

• The albatross colony - the largest black-browed concentration anywhere.
• The colony band - nests running several kilometres along the western shore.
• The rockhoppers - penguins nesting among the albatross.
• The tussac - the restored native grass across the island.

When to go

November to February is the breeding peak. Landings depend entirely on swell and succeed only occasionally. Winter access is effectively nil.

Honest expectations

Landings are rarely possible because of swell and many expedition ships pass without getting ashore. Access requires permission from the reserve owners. There are no facilities of any kind.

Nearby

Grand Jason is adjacent, and Carcass Island is southeast.