Pātea Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Doubtful Sound is Fiordland's deepest and second largest fiord. With rugged peaks, verdant rainforest and twisting, hidden inlets, Doubtful Sound is certain to take your breath away
Explore Doubtful Sound
Type of Tour
Coach Travel & Tours
Duration
Full day
Departs from
Manapouri, Visitors Centre
Price (from)
Adults: (15+) $429 PP
Children: (3–14) $199 PP
Book this tour
Hop on Board Wilderness Cruise
Cruise on Doubtful Sound
Cruise on Doubtful Sound
About the tour
About the tour
There’s no direct road access, so the only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a trip over Wilmot Pass - New Zealand's most expensive (and majestic) road. You'll pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
There’s no direct road access, so the only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is a cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a trip over Wilmot Pass - New Zealand's most expensive (and majestic) road. You'll pause along the way to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest and view Doubtful Sound glistening below. This isolation makes this fiord a very special place, only those in the know get to see.
In Doubtful Sound, you’ll board a spacious, purpose-built catamaran Patea Explorer for a 3 hour cruise through this pristine fiord. During the cruise your knowledgeable and friendly nature guides will share with you their passion for the region. They’re always ready to answer questions, point out landmarks and provide all the information about the varied wildlife you may see, including dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
Trip details
- 3 hour cruise of Doubtful Sound, exploring beautiful waterways on our way to meet the Tasman Sea
- Wildlife viewing, including dolphins, fur seals and even occasionally penguins
- Start with a cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over the epic Wilmot Pass through Fiordland’s rainforest and into the Sound.
- Your dedicated nature guide will let you know all about the region's flora and fauna
- Duration: 7 to 8 hours
Things you should know
- Check in 30 mins prior to ferry departure
- Due to floating wharf access and multiple transport legs, a moderate level of mobility is required
- Doubtful Sound is off-grid, there is no Wifi - the perfect digital detox destination
Extra information
- Delicious lunch options are available (please pre-order for pick up at check-in)
- Snacks & drinks are available on board to purchase (cash only)
- Complimentary tea and coffee is available
- Licensed bar on board (extra cost, cash only)
- The tour is suitable for all ages.
Getting there
All Doubtful Sound experiences start in Manapouri which is around 2.5 – 3 hrs from Queenstown and 30 mins from Te Anau. You can drive there yourself or for a more relaxed option, there are coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau.
The coach drivers for the tour are extremely knowledgeable about the area, its history, local flora & fauna, and will provide you with commentary and information along the way.
The coach drivers for the tour are extremely knowledgeable about the area, its history, local flora & fauna, and will provide you with commentary and information along the way.
What to bring
- Non-slip shoes/boots
- waterproof jacket
- warm sweater/fleece jacket
- sunscreen/sunglasses
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- personal medication, including for asthma or allergies
- a packed lunch (or pre-order at the time of booking)
Book this tour
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If you have any questions or want to get in touch...
For information about making bookings or travel in New Zealand get in touch with our team of experienced locals.