From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Highlights

  • Cruise the full length of Doubtful Sound, all the way to the Tasman Sea

  • Savour a three-course dinner and cooked breakfast prepared by our on-board chef

  • Look out for the vast array of wildlife including dolphins, penguins, and seals

  • Explore the shoreline by kayak, tender boat or jump in for a swim

  • Enjoy insightful commentary provided by the nature guide onboard

Summary

Doubtful Sound is pristine, unforgettable and out of this world. Give in to the wilderness, and escape to the remote Fiordland National Park on an overnight cruise through pristine fiords where you will enjoy water activities and a 3-course dinner.

Tour info

Duration
1 day
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary

Why take this tour?

Get ready to create lifelong memories as we take you on the ultimate Doubtful Sound experience aboard an overnight cruise which includes a 3-course dinner and full breakfast, live commentary from a knowledgeable nature guide, shoreline water excursions, and modern amenities for maximum comfort. 

Start your unforgettable journey in Manapouri with a short cruise across Lake Manapouri. A coach then takes you across the breathtaking Wilmot Pass, traveling on a sub-alpine road through dense rainforest. Arrive at Deep Cove, meet the crew, and then board the majestic Fiordland Wanderer. Marvel at the unique design of the Vessel, which borrows from the aesthetic of a traditional scow, blending old world charm with modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with a fully licensed bar, and an observation lounge. 

Cruise through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery and listen as the boat’s knowledgeable nature guide provides commentary ensuring you miss nothing, be it a pod of resident dolphins, fur seals, or rare penguins you might encounter. After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, you can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat – or simply relax onboard. For the adventurous, there’s even a chance to go swimming.

Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner in the evening, which is prepared by the onboard chef and served in the dining saloon. Mingle with fellow travellers, savour some of the fine wines at the licensed bar, and if the skies are clear in the evening, spend some time on the upper deck gazing at the stars. Kick off the next day with a hearty cooked breakfast menu and get ready to enjoy the rest of the morning exploring other parts of the fiord. Finally, you’ll return to Deep Cove, then take the trip back to Manapouri.

What’s included?

  • - Nature guide

  • - 3-Course dinner

  • - Cooked breakfast

  • - Shoreline water activities: kayak or tender boat (weather dependant)

  • - Cruise across Lake Manapouri

  • - Coach through Wilmot Pass

  • - Cruise full length of Doubtful Sound

  • - Alcoholic beverages (can be purchased at our licensed bar)

Things to know

Before you book

  • Water activities are weather dependant

  • Single passengers must pay sole occupancy rates for a twin-share/double share cabin.

  • Vessel has twin-rooms with communal bathrooms

  • Duvets, sheets and towels provided

  • Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility

Before you go

  • Vessel has twin-rooms with communal bathrooms

  • Water activities are weather dependant

  • Only one carry-on bag is recommended for passenger convenience and safety.

  • Please remember personal medication, including for asthma and allergies

Cancellation Policy

    In the event of a cancellation or amendment to your Overnight Cruise booking, refunds will only be granted when RealNZ receives notification at least 14 days prior to departure.

About operator:

Our family business was founded in Fiordland in the 1950’s by tourism and conservation pioneers Les and Olive Hutchins. 
Sixty years later, we offer tourism experiences from Stewart Island to Queenstown; including world renowned cruises through Milford and Doubtful Sounds, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves and heritage steamship TSS Earnslaw.
For us, the aim is still quite simple – to share the natural heritage and astounding beauty of the region with visitors – just as our founders intended.