Take the hassle out of getting to your Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise with this package that includes the cruise itself along with coach transfers from Te Anau. With the cruise itself, you will escape from civilization to one of the most beautiful natural destinations in New Zealand - Doubtful Sound, a massive, incredibly scenic fiord brimming with scenery, cascading waterfalls and native wildlife.
Begin your adventure at the Manapouri Visitor Centre. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure for a seamless start to your journey. Then, enjoy a 45-minute scenic cruise across the stunning, island-studded Lake Manapouri. This peaceful journey offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush rainforest, setting the stage for the wilderness ahead. After this, you will disembark at West Arm and board a coach for the 45-minute drive over Wilmot Pass, ascending 671 meters through dense rainforest. This extraordinary road, flanked by towering peaks, provides stunning views of Pātea Doubtful Sound when conditions permit. On clear days, the panoramic vista is unforgettable; on misty days, the fiord takes on an ethereal, mysterious beauty. Be sure to pause for photos and appreciate whatever nature reveals.
Once you arrive at Deep Cove, you will then embark on a two and a half hour cruise through the untouched waters of Pātea Doubtful Sound, a fiord three times longer and ten times larger than Milford Sound. Navigate the tranquil waterways aboard a purpose-built catamaran, designed for comfort and panoramic views of the towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and hidden inlets. The ever-changing landscape ensures no two days in Doubtful Sound are the same. Wildlife thrives in this remote sanctuary, though sightings vary with the day and season. Keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals basking on the rocks, or the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Some days, wildlife offers a front-row show, while on others, the beauty of the fiord itself takes centre stage. Throughout the journey, the onboard nature guide will share insights into the unique flora, fauna, and geology of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
OMG - Amazing!!!
OMG - Amazing!!!! SOOOO much better than the Milford Sound in my opinion. Only our boat on the fiord - not a million others with us, so it felt very remote and untouched. I loved the remoteness of it and the fact you take the boat across Lake Manapouri first to get over to land and then you drive once again, visit the pier station and then cruise on the Fiord. Way more value for money with this experience.
We had a lovely day at Doubtful Sound
We had a lovely day at Doubtful Sound. It was well organised and all connections worked smoothly. It is remote and although we were with a group we felt like we were the only people there, in an untouched part of the world. It was beautiful. We also saw Dolphins, penguins, seals and birds. Five stars
A great day despite the regularly light showers
A great day despite the regularly light showers. Boat was luxurious. Commentary on the bus and boat was informative and I particularly enjoyed the part where the boat engine was shut off and we were able to enjoy just the sounds of nature.