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South Island

Start: Manapouri
Duration: Season: December to March

Explore Doubtful Sound Aboard the Fiordland Wanderer

Discover the remote landscapes of Pātea Doubtful Sound on a one-night cruise aboard the Fiordland Wanderer. Departing from Manapouri, the experience begins with a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach journey over Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove. Board the modern, purpose-built vessel and cruise through quiet waterways surrounded by rainforest, waterfalls and dramatic mountain scenery.

Join a kayaking or tender boat excursion when conditions allow, learn about the fiord from the onboard nature specialist and watch for dolphins, fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins. In the evening, enjoy a plated meal prepared by the onboard chef before settling into your warm twin-share sleeping compartment. Wake amid the peaceful morning scenery before returning to Manapouri the following day.

Milford Wanderer cruising in Doubtful Sound with lush Fiordland forest in the background

About the Fiordland Wanderer

The Fiordland Wanderer is a modern, purpose-built vessel designed for comfortable cruising through southern New Zealand’s remote fiords.

  • Sleeps up to 36 guests
  • Twin-share sleeping compartments
  • Modern shared bathrooms with hot showers
  • Plated meals prepared by the onboard chef
  • Viewing decks, dining saloon, licensed bar and lounge
  • Kayaks and tender craft carried onboard

Highlights

  • Cruise aboard a modern vessel built for southern New Zealand waters
  • Experience Doubtful Sound during the peaceful evening and early morning
  • Enjoy an intimate atmosphere with up to 36 overnight guests
  • Explore secluded arms, coves and rainforest-lined waterways
  • Watch for dolphins, fur seals and Fiordland crested penguins
  • Relax in comfortable shared spaces with wide fiord views
  • Return journey from Manapouri to Doubtful Sound
  • One night aboard the Fiordland Wanderer
  • Twin-share sleeping compartment
  • Plated dinner and breakfast
  • Afternoon refreshments, tea and coffee
  • Onboard nature commentary
  • Kayaking or tender boat activity, weather permitting
  • Bedding and towels

What to Bring

Only one carry-on bag is recommended for passenger convenience and safety.  Don't forget the following:

  • Non-slip walking shoes/boots
  • Waterproof jacket*
  • Warm sweater/fleece jacket
  • Change of clothes*
  • Sunscreen/sunglasses
  • Insect repellent*
  • Swimwear (optional)
  • Camera
  • Lunch and snacks for the first day
  • Personal medication, including for asthma and allergies

*Essential items if you are doing activities. Activities take place even if it is raining.

  • Duration: 1 night and 2 days
  • Departure point: Manapouri
  • Vessel: Fiordland Wanderer
  • Accommodation: Twin cabins and family quad cabins with shared bathroom facilities
  • Check-in: At least 30 minutes before departure
  • Meals: Plated dinner and breakfast included
  • Activities: Kayaking or tender boat excursion, weather permitting
  • Mobility: A reasonable level of mobility is required
  • Adult: 16 years +
  • Children: 3-15 years, children must be accompanied by an adult, including in their room overnight - twin room recommended.
  • Infant: 2 years and under.
  • 14 days or more before departure: Full refund**.
  • Less than 14 days: No refund
  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Note: **Any refund approved under our terms and conditions will be subject to a 5% admin & processing fee, which will be deducted from the refund amount. Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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