Doubtful Sound is one of the most magical destinations in New Zealand. A fiord tucked away in the depths of Fiordland in the South Island, it’s an unbelievable spot. Doubtful Sound is not quite as easily accessible as Milford Sound (found further north), giving it added mystery and appeal. An overnight cruise is the way to get the most out of your visit. Board a boat, then a bus and then your vessel for the overnight cruise. The variety and remoteness makes for an experience that you can’t not love, and will never forget. Here’s all you need to know to guarantee falling completely in love with Doubtful Sound.
1. Opt for the overnight cruise
A cruise is undoubtedly the best way to experience Doubtful Sound. It’s a peaceful fiord with many arms and bays to explore from aboard a vessel. And an overnight cruise means you get to spend even more time in the middle of the remote fiord. Sit on the top deck and watch the sunset, and enjoy the sunrise the next day. Two days could mean seeing Doubtful Sound in different conditions. A down pour of rain is very Fiordland-esque and the waterfalls are incredible. A blue-bird day is seriously picturesque and you can spend the entire time on the outdoor decks. You even have the opportunity to get on the water. Not to mention the onboard cabins allow for a great nights sleep. It’s a cruise, water activities, dinner out and accommodation all in one! Make sure a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise is on your list.
2. Explore with the experts
There’s nothing worse than seeing what could be a rare penguin but not really knowing if it’s a penguin. Plus, you’re well and truely out of phone service in Doubtful Sound so there’s no jumping on Google. On a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, a specialist nature guide is with you the whole way. Welcome commentary and evening presentations keep you up to speed with the surrounding nature and history. All your burning questions can be answered. Your nature guide and captain have their eyes peeled for pods of dolphins, fur seals, sea birds and penguins so you won’t miss a sighting. There’s something to be said for leaving the details to the experts and cruising Doubtful Sound with a local, trusted company.
Check out Real NZ for more details on the overnight cruises in Fiordland.
3. Make time for kayaking
During an overnight cruise if weather permits, you can spend some time off the boat. Explore the shore up close either on kayaks or on the vessels comfy tender/small boat. Both are options are guided and run at a relaxed pace. Kayaking in Doubtful Sound is a highlight. You’ll likely be in a sheltered bay where the deep, dark water is calm. It’s also a great opportunity to look back to the boat that you’re spending the night in – it’s impressive. For those who are keen, jumping off the back of the boat and swimming in the fiord is an option too!
4. Include a few home comforts
Imagine waking up to a hot buffet breakfast with views like this. There are no comprises on comfort during a Doubtful Sound overnight cruise. Settle into a private cabin with an ensuite. There’s a fantastic chef on board preparing dinner, breakfast and all manner of treats. There’s even a fully licensed bar. Being able to freshen up after kayaking or changing to warmer clothes for star gazing on the top deck makes all the difference. In the middle of nowhere, having a delicious buffet dinner and amazing hot showers is utter luxury.
5. Venture all the way to the Tasman Sea
You’ve come this far. It’s time to cover as much ground as you can. Doubtful Sound is around 40 km’s long, making it one of the largest fiords in New Zealand. On an overnight cruise you explore the full length of Doubtful Sound and out to the Tasman Sea. If you’re lucky enough to experience a little wild weather, a voyage out to sea can be a stark contrast to the tranquil waters of the sheltered fiord. The overwhelming sense that not many people venture out here and the beauty of where you are begins to hits home.
Want to know how you can see as much as possible of Doubtful Sound. Read more on overnight cruises with Real NZ here.
This article was created in paid partnership with Real NZ.
