Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

4.7
(469 reviews)
Te Anau, New Zealand

7 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Experience an 8-hour day trip into the remote wilderness of Doubtful Sound, the heart of Fiordland National Park, while nature guides answer questions and point out landmarks. This fiord is home to bottlenose dolphins and fur seals - both are often seen. In season, you may even catch a glimpse of the rare Fiordland crested penguins. Explore Doubtful Sound's vast waterways on board a luxurious vessel. A highlight is experiencing the unique 'Sound of Silence', where you hear only birdsong while floating on the fiord with the engines turned off.

If you wish to pre-order a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after you have made your booking.

Please be sure you arrive 20 minute before departure to check in.

What's Included

Live commentary on board
Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 7 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Lake Manapouri

    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.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    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.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Doubtful Sound, one of New Zealand's most remote fiords, offers a rare wilderness few get to experience, made accessible through our unforgettable single-day adventure. Cruise along Doubtful Sound’s 40km stretch of pristine waterways surrounded by untouched nature, towering peaks and powerful waterfalls. In New Zealand’s deepest fiord, you’re exploring the home of abundant native wildlife, like bottlenose dolphins, NZ fur seals, and Fiordland crested penguins. Experience one of the most expansive and awe-inspiring fiords in this epic wilderness.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 4

    You then begin your return route

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Lake Manapouri

    Sit back and relax on the way aboard a stunning cruise back to the Manapouri visitor centre

    45 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a rain jacket or hat, as necessary
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Please note: During survey the Patea Explorer will be substituted with another vessel from the RealNZ fleet
Supplied by RealNZ

Tags

Day Cruises
Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Water Tours
Sightseeing Cruises
Excellent Quality
Best Conversion
Top Product
Low Supplier Cancellation Rate
Low Last Minute Supplier Cancellation Rate
Curated Catalog
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

4.7 Based on 469 469 reviews
5 stars
382
4 stars
60
3 stars
15
2 stars
8
1 star
4
from per person
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