Nigel Milius
Nigel has been working in the Polar Regions for over 20 years in a variety of capacities, and as an Ornithologist with Quark Expeditions since 2001.
He has completed over 50 tourist voyages with us to many parts of Antarctica, and has also been our ornithologist to the North Pole on two ocasssions. He has overwintered 4 times in the far south (3 with the British, and once with the Australians) and learnt to scuba dive during the 1st of those at Signy Island in the South Orkneys in 1993! In 1998 he became the proud recipient of the British Antarctic Survey’s Fuchs Medal.
Between late 1994 and early 1997 he was at Rothera Station and during that time claims to have become the world expert on the birds there! In 1998-9 he was one of the team at the much visited museum and post office at Port Lockroy and spent the winter of 2000 volunteering on Macquarie helping a team studying Elephant Seals. Born and raised near Manchester, England, he is happily married to Wendy and has now been living in New Zealand, her homeland, for the last 12 years.
When not working aboard ship in high latitudes he spends his time travelling, watching wildlife, walking, and generally enjoying the natural world, for either work or pleasure, a division which he considers himself extremely fortunate to be able to describe as very hazy! He is, as always, looking forward to sharing his enthusiasm for the region with our guests and is usually found on the bridge looking out for birds, whales and seals when not required for other duties.
Nigel has joined these expeditions:
What skills do you bring to the job?
"I'm good with people and can pass information on at a variety of levels. Having spent considerable time in Antarctica in a range of jobs, I have a great depth of knowledge to share. I love talking about all things Antarctic and all things connected with Natural History."
What keeps you coming back season after season?
"It's always different! Even now, after well over 40 expeditions and time with BAS and the Australian Antarctic Division, I'm still seeing new thins, visiting new sites and learning new things. I also get much enjoyment in other people's excitement seeing these places for the first time. I take great satisfaction when I enhance their experience in some small way.
If you could time travel which historic expedition would you join?
"Anything led by Shackleton! He seemed to have a great knack for exploring new places and, more importantly, getting everyone back alive. I like living!"
Nigel's advice for Polar Travelers
"Go! It is an amazing place. But go with an open mind regarding the itinerary published in the brochure. Ice and weather will play a part in what you can and can't do. Be prepared for that and look at the inevitable changes as an opportunity to see something not advertized!"
