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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.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Live commentary on board
Food and drinks (available to purchase)
Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Manapouri Departure
Operated by RealNZ
341 reviews
Anne R,Nov 3, 2024
The organisation for the trip with its different travel components were first class. The cruise on Doubtful Sound was so atmospheric. We got 4 seasons on the cruise, although only a glimpse of blue sky. However, the hanging cloud just enhanced the cruise, making it very mystical and the silence was palpable. I think the experience the next day when it was perfect blue sky would have give completely different photographs and experience. The waterfalls were immense and the boat going under one was very exciting! Was hoping to see dolphins, but didn’t, only penguins, but this didn’t detract from a wonderful trip.
Ata R,Nov 2, 2024
Overall a nice experience. Departure from the RealNZ boat terminal on Lake Manapouri (45 minutes), followed by scenic bus ride (50 minutes) to the Doubtful Sound, followed by a boat tour of the Doubtful Sound (3 hours). Beautiful views, we’re fortunate to see a colony of New Zealand Fur Seals (unfortunately no sightings of Fiordland Crested Penguins or Dolphins on our tour). The food available for purchase on the boat is pretty good, and they have a full espresso setup for coffee drinks along with a selection of non-dairy milks (oat, macadamia). My only critique: on the 50 minute return drive from the Doubtful Sound to Lake Manapouri the driver did not provide any narration.
Anne A,Oct 27, 2024
From the first moment we checked in at the office, the experience was great. Very organised and professional. We were lucky with weather and able to go quite far out to sea at the end of the sound. Guys on the coach transfer between boats were very entertaining and informative. Would recommend to all to take this trip.
Richard G,Aug 19, 2024
Round every corner there was a new vista to photograph. The English language is going to have to invent a few more adjectives for superlative if it is going to be able to describe Doubtful Sound adequately.
Abigail H,May 15, 2024
this was the most memorable part of my trip to New Zealand. lots of people said doubtful sound was worth checking out in addition to Milford and they were so very right. it was really nice being able to spend a longer period of time marveling in the beauty of this fjord.