Experience the spectacular, remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound. Journey across Lake Manapouri, over the breathtaking Wilmot Pass and into the heart of Fiordland National Park. This is a must-do for nature lovers and explorers alike.
Summary Description
Highlights
- Enjoy a peaceful cruise across the crystal-clear Lake Manapouri to West Arm
- Learn about the region's flora and fauna from a knowledgeable nature guide
- Be on the lookout for dolphins, seals, and even penguins
- Take advantage of a licensed bar onboard, with snack options
- Admire the rainforest whilst travelling by coach over Wilmot Pass
- Doubtful Sound is in remote Fiordland, with no WIFI available, the perfect place to unplug and recharge
Description
Doubtful Sound is a beautiful fiord; three times longer than Milford Sound and a surface area ten times larger with twisting arms. With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away.
There is no direct road access, so the only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass - New Zealand's most expensive (and majestic) road. We’ll pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
Once you arrive, you will board the Patea Explorer for a 3 hour (approximately) cruise on Doubtful Sound - a spectacular pristine fiord. During the cruise, our knowledgeable and friendly skipper or nature guide will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
As this is a 7-hour adventure we highly recommend you bring a packed lunch. Drinks and snacks can be purchased from the cafe and bar onboard the Patea Explorer vessel in Doubtful Sound. Sit back and relax as we take you to this wonderful remote place, where we end our tour back at the original departure point.
Included / Excluded
- Round-trip cruise across Lake Manapouri
- Round-trip coach journey across Wilmot Pass through the rainforest
- 3-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound
- Commentary by drivers and nature guides
- Food and drinks (available for purchase)
Start / End Locations
Important Information
Know Before You Book
- • Allow approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Queenstown and 30 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Te Anau
- • It is recommended to bring clothing and footwear for cool and wet weather
- Allow approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Queenstown and 30 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Te Anau
- Please bring non-slip shoes/boots, waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, sunscreen/sunglasses, insect repellent and camera.
- Please remember to bring personal medication including for asthma and allergies
Cancellation
Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours
Cancellation Notes: Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund
Terms and Conditions
Full T&Cs for RealNZ experiences can be found on our website: https://www.realnz.com/en/terms-conditions/
