Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound, known in Māori as Pātea, meaning "unencumbered" or "freed from burdens," is a tranquil wilderness famed for its serene 'Sound of Silence.' This pristine fiord is rich in diverse flora and fauna, with New Zealand Fur Seals and Fiordland Crested Penguins often seen on islets near its entrance. Towering cliffs covered in lush rainforest add to its beauty. At 421 meters deep and spanning 40 kilometres from Deep Cove to the Tasman Sea, Pātea-Doubtful Sound is New Zealand’s deepest fiord, with three distinct winding arms.
Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise from Manapouri
From Pearl Harbour, Manapouri, you cruise across picturesque Lake Manapouri to West Arm and then travel by coach over Wilmot Pass through dense rainforest. There are opportunities along the way to examine plant life and view the spectacular scenery.
Once at Doubtful Sound you board the catamaran, Commander Peak, for a 3 hour cruise of beautiful Doubtful Sound to the Tasman Sea. On board, there is excellent viewing of waterfalls, rainforest and mountains. Of particular interest, if sighted, are fur seals basking on the rocks, or a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins. Rare Fiordland crested penguins are sometimes encountered in the right season. An interesting onboard commentary keeps you informed and on the return journey, the vessel's engines are turned off and visitors are treated to the Sound of Silence'.
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Your Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise begins with a scenic cruise across the beautiful Lake Manapouri. Once there your coach driver will collect you for your ride over the Wilmot Pass to meet your vessel the TUTOKO II, your home for the next day.
Welcomed aboard by friendly crew with a glass of bubbly the mood is set. Then your off to discover the many jewels Doubtful Sound has to offer. With Tawaki (Fiordland Crested Penguins), Kekeno (NZ Fur Seals) and Bottle-nose Dolphins to amuse all encompassed by breathe-taking vistas rising steeply from the depths of the fjords to the summits high above; the scenery and wildlife will undoubtedly leave you in complete awe.
You'll be fishing for your dinner whilst the crew retrieve lobster for your plate. The food is plentiful with a local flavour; the freshest seafood you will ever experience for sure! Then there's kayaking for the adventurous for that up-close personal experience. Or you can simply sit back with a book and relax with a nice wine.
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise with Fiordland Cruises
Discover the untouched majesty of Doubtful Sound on this exclusive, small-group overnight voyage departing from Manapouri. Limited to just 12 guests, the MV Southern Secret provides a personalized sanctuary where you can kayak in pristine waters, spot resident dolphins, and relax in a private ensuite cabin. Your adventure begins with a stunning cruise across Lake Manapouri and a spectacular coach journey over the Wilmot Pass, offering unrivaled views of the rugged Fiordland wilderness.