Overview
Set sail on an unparalleled journey with us, exploring five of New Zealand’s most remote and majestic fiords: Chalky and Preservation Inlets, alongside the breathtaking Doubtful, Dusky, and Breaksea Sounds. These southern sanctuaries are gateways to a world of untouched beauty, where wind-swept coastlines and expansive beaches unfold into histories of early whalers and miners who once sought to harness this wild landscape. Now, only remnants of their endeavours linger, inviting you to experience the profound solitude and awe-inspiring wilderness of these storied waters.
Aboard the specially designed Milford Wanderer, follow in the wake of Captain Cook's historic 1773 expedition in search of the fabled Terra Australis. This voyage offers not just a passage through time but an intimate engagement with the region’s rich natural tapestry. Land on pristine beaches, navigate the intricate coastlines by tender craft and kayak, and visit the island haven preserved by New Zealand’s pioneering conservationist, Richard Henry. The diverse wildlife encountered along the way promises to be a highlight of your cruise.
With expert nature guides on board, top-notch amenities, and exquisite cuisine, every aspect of your adventure is meticulously catered to, set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s southern fiords. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of these secluded natural wonders, where history, wildlife, and rugged beauty converge into an extraordinary adventure.
Details
Departure Dates
Month | Year | Day |
May | 2025 | 4, 10 |
August | 2025 | 31 |
September | 2025 | 6 |
(C) Tour Closed (L) Limited Availability |
Start: Manapouri/Te Anau
Finish: Manapouri/Te Anau
Includes:
- 7 day expedition cruise of Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds and Preservation and Chalky Inlets (with 1-way helicopter transfer included)
- On-board specialist nature guides who provide informative commentary and evening talks
- Guided walks through rainforest and along beautiful deserted shorelines
- Visit historic sites and abandoned settlements
- Tender craft and kayaks for exploration of the coastline
- 32 passengers per departure
- Warm, comfortable accommodation (two passengers per sleeping compartment)
- Duvets, sheets and towels provided
- Modern shared bathroom facilities with hot showers
- Delicious meals prepared by onboard chef
- Open bridge policy - chat with the skipper during the voyage
- Kayaks and small motorised craft available for passenger use
Pricing:
Cost per Person
Apr - Sep 2025 | From Manapouri/Te Anau | From Queenstown |
Twin Share | NZ$5,699 | NZ$5,809 |
Single Cabin | NZ$10,544 | NZ$10,654 |
Payment Terms:
- Non-refundable deposit of 25% payable on booking, the balance is due 130 days before travel.
Amendments:
- $50 fee is charged for amendments to a confirmed reservation. Amendments are not allowed within 60 days before travel.
All cancellations must be in writing. Cancellation fees are charged on the following basis per person:
- Outside 90 days - loss of deposit + NZ$100.00 per person
- 89-60 days prior to departure - Loss of deposit + NZ$200.00 per person
- 59-0 days prior to departure - 100% of full fare or remaining balance
Cancellation fees are not negotiable – we strongly recommend travel insurance for passengers.
- Child Age: 10-15 years
- Children under 10 years of age are NOT allowed
- Adults over 70 years of age should consult with a doctor to ascertain physical fitness
Pricing is correct at the time of printing and may change without prior notice. The tour operator reserves the right to amend or cancel departures at any time should the weather or other circumstances necessitate.
Currency ConverterOverview
Set sail on an unparalleled journey with us, exploring five of New Zealand’s most remote and majestic fiords: Chalky and Preservation Inlets, alongside the breathtaking Doubtful, Dusky, and Breaksea Sounds. These southern sanctuaries are gateways to a world of untouched beauty, where wind-swept coastlines and expansive beaches unfold into histories of early whalers and miners who once sought to harness this wild landscape. Now, only remnants of their endeavours linger, inviting you to experience the profound solitude and awe-inspiring wilderness of these storied waters.
Aboard the specially designed Milford Wanderer, follow in the wake of Captain Cook's historic 1773 expedition in search of the fabled Terra Australis. This voyage offers not just a passage through time but an intimate engagement with the region’s rich natural tapestry. Land on pristine beaches, navigate the intricate coastlines by tender craft and kayak, and visit the island haven preserved by New Zealand’s pioneering conservationist, Richard Henry. The diverse wildlife encountered along the way promises to be a highlight of your cruise.
With expert nature guides on board, top-notch amenities, and exquisite cuisine, every aspect of your adventure is meticulously catered to, set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s southern fiords. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of these secluded natural wonders, where history, wildlife, and rugged beauty converge into an extraordinary adventure.
Preservation Inlet Cruise
IMPORTANT NOTE
The itinerary below is simply a general guide and all itineraries may be done in reverse.
Our tours offer a flexible sample itinerary as a general guide, but the true magic lies in the adaptability to change, based on the crew's judgment and weather conditions, making each expedition truly one-of-a-kind. The option for extra walks, tender craft explorations, and kayaking activities ensures your adventure is filled with variety and excitement.
7 days with helicopter flight out
Day 1: Manapouri to Breaksea Sound
Start with a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over the stunning Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound. Board the Milford Wanderer to cruise out of Doubtful Sound, concluding with a 3-hour sea passage to Breaksea Sound.
Day 2: Breaksea Sound to Dusky Sound
Navigate through Acheron Passage to Dusky Sound, exploring Shag Islands and Sportsman Cove. The afternoon offers a visit to Luncheon Cove, site of New Zealand’s earliest European and sealers settlement, with an optional guided walk on predator-free Anchor Island.
Day 3: Explore Dusky Sound
Visit Richard Henry’s historic house site on Pigeon Island, then cruise Facile Harbour, the site of NZ's first known European shipwreck. The day continues with exploration through Earshell Cove and Resolution Island's narrow channels to The Basin for walking or kayaking.
Day 4: Dusky Sound to Chalky Inlet
Discover Pickersgill Harbour and Astronomers Point, significant sites from Cook's 1773 expedition. A three-hour sea passage takes you to Chalky Inlet, with time to explore the beach at South Port and the old sawmill site, anchoring near the historic “Stella” steamship wreck at North Port.
Day 5: Chalky Inlet to Preservation Inlet
Morning exploration of Cromarty's town site and Te Oneroa's mining relics, with an optional afternoon walk to Puysegur Point Lighthouse.
Day 6: Preservation Inlet
Visit the Tarawera smelter's brick chimney and New Zealand's first operational whaling station at Cuttle Cove. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Spit Island.
Day 7: Preservation Inlet to Manapouri with Heli-Out
Helicopter from Weka Island Barge to West Arm of Manapouri, starting flights from 11 am, followed by a picturesque cruise across Lake Manapouri to conclude your adventure at the RealNZ Manapouri Visitor Centre.
Cost per Person
Apr - Sep 2025 | From Manapouri/Te Anau | From Queenstown |
Twin Share | NZ$5,699 | NZ$5,809 |
Single Cabin | NZ$10,544 | NZ$10,654 |
Payment Terms:
- Non-refundable deposit of 25% payable on booking, the balance is due 130 days before travel.
Amendments:
- $50 fee is charged for amendments to a confirmed reservation. Amendments are not allowed within 60 days before travel.
All cancellations must be in writing. Cancellation fees are charged on the following basis per person:
- Outside 90 days - loss of deposit + NZ$100.00 per person
- 89-60 days prior to departure - Loss of deposit + NZ$200.00 per person
- 59-0 days prior to departure - 100% of full fare or remaining balance
Cancellation fees are not negotiable – we strongly recommend travel insurance for passengers.
- Child Age: 10-15 years
- Children under 10 years of age are NOT allowed
- Adults over 70 years of age should consult with a doctor to ascertain physical fitness
Pricing is correct at the time of printing and may change without prior notice. The tour operator reserves the right to amend or cancel departures at any time should the weather or other circumstances necessitate.
Preservation Inlet Cruise
IMPORTANT NOTE
The itinerary below is simply a general guide and all itineraries may be done in reverse.
Our tours offer a flexible sample itinerary as a general guide, but the true magic lies in the adaptability to change, based on the crew's judgment and weather conditions, making each expedition truly one-of-a-kind. The option for extra walks, tender craft explorations, and kayaking activities ensures your adventure is filled with variety and excitement.
7 days with helicopter flight out
Day 1: Manapouri to Breaksea Sound
Start with a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over the stunning Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound. Board the Milford Wanderer to cruise out of Doubtful Sound, concluding with a 3-hour sea passage to Breaksea Sound.
Day 2: Breaksea Sound to Dusky Sound
Navigate through Acheron Passage to Dusky Sound, exploring Shag Islands and Sportsman Cove. The afternoon offers a visit to Luncheon Cove, site of New Zealand’s earliest European and sealers settlement, with an optional guided walk on predator-free Anchor Island.
Day 3: Explore Dusky Sound
Visit Richard Henry’s historic house site on Pigeon Island, then cruise Facile Harbour, the site of NZ's first known European shipwreck. The day continues with exploration through Earshell Cove and Resolution Island's narrow channels to The Basin for walking or kayaking.
Day 4: Dusky Sound to Chalky Inlet
Discover Pickersgill Harbour and Astronomers Point, significant sites from Cook's 1773 expedition. A three-hour sea passage takes you to Chalky Inlet, with time to explore the beach at South Port and the old sawmill site, anchoring near the historic “Stella” steamship wreck at North Port.
Day 5: Chalky Inlet to Preservation Inlet
Morning exploration of Cromarty's town site and Te Oneroa's mining relics, with an optional afternoon walk to Puysegur Point Lighthouse.
Day 6: Preservation Inlet
Visit the Tarawera smelter's brick chimney and New Zealand's first operational whaling station at Cuttle Cove. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Spit Island.
Day 7: Preservation Inlet to Manapouri with Heli-Out
Helicopter from Weka Island Barge to West Arm of Manapouri, starting flights from 11 am, followed by a picturesque cruise across Lake Manapouri to conclude your adventure at the RealNZ Manapouri Visitor Centre.