Table Of Content
Hiya, Transfers from Queenstown are not included with this cruise. You can get a bus there from Queenstown or i would recommend just hiring a car and driving to Manapouri. Driving conditions during winter (May to September) can be difficult.
MV Southern Secret
It is a more physically demanding experience, but a highly satisfying way of exploring this wilderness area of New Zealand. You’ll need to be prepared for some ‘discomfort’ such as sandflies, rain or both. It’s super exciting for them as they get to enjoy a real adventure and spot tons of wildlife along the way. With no direct road access, the only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is by a cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass. This isolation makes the fiord a very special, private place, a place only those in the know get to see.
Rakiura Stewart Island
On the other side, our group boarded two coach buses that would drive us across the Wilmot Pass. The drive is only 21 km but due to the terrain and lots of stops at points of interest, it takes about 45 minutes. I highly encourage you to treat both the lake boat ride and the bus as part of the tour experience instead of just transportation to get you to the fiord. That way, you’ll enjoy the ride and near-constant commentary from the bus driver, rather than have your headphones in and wonder why it was taking so long like I did.
Family Trips
The Sound of silence - Sponsored Stories News - New Zealand Herald
The Sound of silence - Sponsored Stories News.
Posted: Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
I’d recommend stocking up on your seasickness medication of choice; Sea-Legs is a popular option in Aotearoa New Zealand and can be purchased at any pharmacy. The ‘Southern Secret’ overnight option for Doubtful Sound is more boutique in nature and a much smaller operation. This 20 metre vessel is based in Deep Cove in Doubtful. The vessel has only five private cabins and accommodates a maximum of 12 passengers on a charter. For budget travelers, you can’t beat staying at the Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels. It’s perfect for those on a road trip in a campervan or motorhome and has budget rooms available.
Page 57 – Cruise Hive - Cruise Hive
Page 57 – Cruise Hive.
Posted: Thu, 25 Jan 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Should you do the Doubtful Sounds Overnight Cruise or Day Cruise?
It isn’t as popular as Milford Sound, mostly because it’s harder to get to. In fact, it’s so remote that Captain Cook thought it would be impossible to sail here, hence the name “Doubtful Sound.” He actually called it “Doubtful Harbour” starting in 1770. However, whalers and sealers referred to it as “Doubtful Sound,” and by 1998, it was officially named Doubtful Sound/Patea. The vastness of this untouched world will take your breath away as you experience its spectacular beauty and scenery. This video showcases the hard work and dedication of the people involved in creating our amazing experiences. All our Doubtful Sound experiences start in Manapouri which is around 2.5 – 3 hours from Queenstown and 30 minutes from Te Anau.
If driving yourself, Manapouri is a 20-minute drive from Te Anau and a 2-hour drive from Queenstown. These are the two nearest and most popular towns where visitors to the area tend to stay, both having lots of restaurants and a variety of accommodation options to choose from. Additionally, Doubtful Sound has unique marine and wildlife including a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins and the rare crested penguin.
The Real Journeys Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise is a night to remember! With rugged peaks, verdant rain forest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound takes one’s breath away. Home to abundant wildlife, guests may see bottle-nose dolphins and fur seals at play, or catch a glimpse of a rare Fiordland Crested Penguin.
With its rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound will take your breath away. Home to abundant wildlife you may see bottlenose dolphins and fur seals at play, or catch a glimpse of a rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. Perfect for charters, overnight cruises and fishing and diving advertures throughout Fiordland.
If you’re a social traveler, the Lakefront Backpackers is another good budget option, and they have dorm beds and private rooms. Staying here also feels like you’re in a park, although you’re just a 5-minute walk from town. They offer indoor/outdoor kitchen facilities, BBQ, laundry, free unlimited WiFi, storage, and a movie room to relax after a long day exploring Doubtful Sound.
The next day you’ll be able to dig into a hearty breakfast before heading back out to the Tasman Sea (weather permitting) and exploring more of the fiord. Choose to explore Milford Sound by kayak or tender boat (weather dependant). Treat your senses to a truly unique wilderness experience with a Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise to the second largest fiord in Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound. Waking up on the fiord, watching the clouds lift and seeing the reflection of the cliffs on the water felt like a priceless, once in a lifetime experience. And hearing the Sound of Nature when everything else was still is a moment that will stay with me forever.
Hi Keely, your 1 year old will travel free of charge on the Fiordland Overnight Cruise. You can either book a premium cabin or economy cabin so you will have a double bed and bunk or else you can book in the bunkroom. Everrything to be totally honest.....from the online booking service which was simply excellent to every tiny detail of the cruise itself. The Sound itself is obviously out-of-control blow-your-mind glorious... While you are having fun, don't forget to keep an eye out for the amazing wildlife that inhabits the Doubtful Sound area.
There’s something for everyone, from basic twin-share cabins to more luxurious double rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The onboard naturalist will provide commentary throughout the trip, sharing their knowledge and insights into the unique ecosystem of Doubtful Sound. They’ll point out interesting landmarks and wildlife and answer any questions you may have. Once you reach the western shore of Lake Manapouri, you’ll disembark and board a coach for a short trip to the Manapouri underground hydro power station.
No comments:
Post a Comment