Without question, one of the most breathtaking and memorable experiences you can have in New Zealand is to explore the remote, mist-veiled waterways of Fiordland. The very location and geography of the place dictates only the most dedicated of travellers will experience the best of it. Sure, you can take the picturesque drive to Milford Sound easily enough. Or there’s the boat across Lake Manapouri to the Wilmott Pass that takes you into the top of Doubtful Sound. But the vast majority of this World Heritage-listed wilderness remains reachable only by sea or air. This, more isolated Fiordland offers a rare window into an ancient landscape where nature reigns supreme and human footprints are few. An escorted small-group tour, utilising the expertise of both naturalists and master mariners, is one of the best ways to experience it.
To those determined souls who’ve always craved an unforgettable encounter with New Zealand’s last pristine paradise, prepare to be excited!
Imagine a spectacular helicopter transfer, from Te Anau, across the snow-clad peaks of Fiordland National Park into the top of the jewel in the regions’ crown, Dusky Sound. Here you rendezvous with a 30 metre, four-deck luxury launch that will be your home for the next 6 days. With just 18 guests aboard, this has all the trappings of a luxury cruise, but it’s so much more — it’s an intimate expedition into New Zealand’s wild south-western frontier. Over the coming days you’ll glide through mist-draped valleys, beneath sheer granite cliffs, past plunging waterfalls and into tranquil coves teeming with wildlife and often steeped in human history. Every step of the way your journey is guided by expert naturalists and a dedicated crew leading daily excursions by tender craft and on foot.
Whilst in Dusky Sound you’ll visit Luncheon Cove, home to one of the earliest European settlements, and predator-free Anchor Island, alive with birdlife like the South Island Saddleback and Red-Crowned Kakariki. You’ll walk in the footsteps of Captain Cook at Astronomers Point and Pickersgill Harbour. Then, sailing northward, you’ll explore Acheron Passage, Resolution Island and Breaksea Sound—each with its own story to tell—before entering the grandeur of Doubtful Sound itself, with towering cliffs and haunting stillness. This is where nature’s silence speaks volumes, all while you’re treated to superb cuisine and pampered with attentive, friendly, luxurious service aboard your floating haven.
One of the best times of the year to visit Fiordland is, in fact, in August. High pressure systems are common in the region at this time producing calm, clear weather conditions. Perfect for exploring, photographing and generally savouring this wonder of nature.
Life-long memories of unique, remote places and wonderful encounters await on this, one of the most enriching travel experiences you’ll ever have.
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