Doubtful Sound and the Fiordland Navigator
South Island, New Zealand
Deep in the heart of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, Doubtful Sound is an unspoilt wilderness area of rainforest, rugged peaks and hidden inlets. The Fiordland Navigator is a purpose built cruiser, ideal for sailing around the many corners of Doubtful Sound. This overnight cruise gives you plenty of time to take in the beauty and tranquillity of this spectacular Sound.
You will be picked up from Queenstown or Te Anau and transferred to Lake Manapouri for a short cruise across the lake, followed by a coach trip over Wilmot Pass. The crew of the Fiordland Navigator will be waiting to meet you in Deep Cove. During the afternoon, the vessel will cruise the length of the fiord, passing through hidden coves and waterways. The ship drops anchor in a sheltered cove allowing you to board a kayak or tender craft, with nature guide, to explore the shoreline. At close quarters, you will enjoy the amazing scenery and wildlife, and may catch a glimpse of fur seals, bottlenose dolphin and, in season, the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
With 18 private en suite cabins and 8 quad-share bunk compartments, the ship can carry a maximum of 70 guests. There are spacious viewing decks on board, as well as an observation lounge. Cooked breakfasts and a three-course buffet dinner, featuring local produce, are served in the dining saloon and picnic lunches can also be ordered. The Fiordland Navigator is a wonderful experience, allowing you to soak up the breathtaking beauty of Doubtful Sound.
The Fiordland Navigator can be booked as part of a tailor-made New Zealand touring itinerary.
Please contact us to discuss your itinerary, or for more touring suggestions see our New Zealand Explorer itinerary.