Spend the night in Doubtful Sound.

Doubtful Sound has thousands of visitors each year but very few get to experience the intense serenity of the 40km long Fiord as the sun begins to duck behind the mountains and then be lucky enough to follow it up with a beautiful Fiordland sunrise.

Real Journeys has made this possible with a truly beautiful vessel. Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, the Fiordland Navigator has real beauty with an old world look as well as modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with fully licensed bar and an observation lounge.

The tour begins just as the day cruise does with a short trip over the stunning Lake Manapouri and bus trip over the towering Wilmot pass. Start the adventure in Doubtful Sound from Deep Cove, sit back and take in some of the most majestic scenery New Zealand has to offer. The shear vastness and intense isolation will transport you to another world. I love the feeling of looking out into such untouched surroundings and feeling like you’re the only person on the planet. You’ll learn about the incredible environment and Doubtful’s creatures and critters that call it home as the guide provides an in-depth commentary.

As the day cruise visitors leave the fiord the anchor is dropped in a sheltered cove and for the adventurous travelers this is your chance to explore the shoreline, kayak the deep waters or if you’re really keen and have packed your swim wear… take a dip! They’re not known to be the warmest waters but it’s a great way to cool off! Not so keen to get in the water? Try your hand on one of the kayaks or tender crafts! For those who are happy to relax on board, there’s plenty of room for doing that to.

As the evening approaches and everyone is starting to feel a little peckish from an afternoon exploring or relaxing, sit back and enjoy a full 3-course buffet dinner, wash it down with some local NZ wines and gaze up at the night sky as the water laps against the side of the boat. What a truly stunning way to finish off an amazing day. Hit the hay when ever you please and be ready to start the next day off right, with a cooked breakfast and some more sight seeing in this dazzling piece of paradise before you head home.

The graceful Fiordland Navigator sleeps 72 people with a mixture of shared and private accommodation so there is something to suit everyone. These overnight cruises only operate during the summer and book up fast so if you are planning your summer Fiordland escape and think this might be for you, the friendly staff at Getaway Te Anau can talk you through your options and have your tickets ready and waiting for you at check in. Stress free and effortless bookings, just how your holiday should be!