Iconic Fiordland - Three Great Walks, Milford Sound & Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise 5D4N, Fully Guided

The journey begins at 6:55 am with a pickup from Queenstown, New Zealand. The destination is Manapouri, where an exciting Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise awaits. You will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Doubtful Sound. Taste New Zealand cuisine and relax as our crew prepares your meals and shows you around our taonga the “treasure” of Doubtful Sound / Patea. The small expedition boat accommodate only 12 passengers accommodated in private double or twin cabins with en-suite bathroom and shower. The small group size allows for a more activities and a more personalised experience.

You will arrive at the Southern Secret at its mooring in Deep Cove around midday. Onboard refreshments and lunch will be served as you set off and begin to explore the environs of Doubtful Sound such as Hall Arm, Crooked Arm, Bradshaw Sound and more. Cruises may include a visit to the entrance of Doubtful Sound where you may visit the Shelter Islands.

Carved by glaciers over thousands of years, the deep waters of Doubtful Sound are protected by towering mountains. While marveling at the incredible scenery look for sea birds, dolphins, seals and penguins. Your crew will bait and check “pots” to capture Fiordland Lobster and select suitable locations for you to cast a line for fish to complement the evening meal. Enjoy kayaking with your fellow passengers to experience the silence and splendor from water level.

Your Doubtful Sound Overnight adventure includes: sightseeing and exploring the history and splendor, pause at features for photographs and to observe marine mammals, cast a line for fishing, check our crayfish traps and savor the spectacular scenery and wildlife. Activities onboard can include: fishing, kayaking, mammal watching and star gazing on clear evenings. Wildlife often sighted in Doubtful Sound may include bottle-nose dolphins, penguins, seals and sea birds.

Your evening meal is served at one of our overnight anchorages in Doubtful Sound.

The Ship awakens, and after a light breakfast we have a leisurely cruise back towards Deep Cove. Journey back across the Wilmot Pass and Lake Manapouri. Travel back across Lake Manapouri from West Arm to Pearl Harbour by boat. Arrive back at Manapouri's Pearl Harbour and transfer back to Te Anau, arriving at 12:30 pm.

Lunch is guest's own arrangement. 

Check into your accommodation at Distinction Anau Hotel and Villas for a rest. In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to join the captivating Glowworm Caves tour, with a 4:30 pm departure during the peak season (October to April) and a 2:00 pm departure in the low season. All aboard the four-wheel-drive bus for a guided rainforest tour to the mystical Glow Worm grotto. Perch yourself beside the secluded gully, home to millions of ancient Glowworms, illuminating the cliff face in a blanket of twinkling stars. A mere one-minute walk from the hotel, the enchanting glowworm experience awaits.

In the evening, a delightful 3-course dinner at the hotel concludes the day's adventures.

Approx. 8 km (5 miles), moderate/high, 800m (descent)

The day begins with a hearty breakfast at hotel, followed by a pick-up for the Kepler Track heli hike today. The experience starts with a short helicopter ride, setting the stage for an 800-meter descent and an 8-kilometer walk. Participants should have a medium level of fitness for the 3-6 hours of walking ahead.

A scrumptious Picnic Lunch awaits to keep guests energized throughout the day. Individually packed, the lunch includes a delicious Chicken grain-filled roll with mayo, lettuce, tomato, cheese, carrot, chicken, honey mustard, and cucumber. Additionally, it features cheese and crackers, a selection of slices in three flavors, and an apple. Special dietary options like vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free can be pre-booked. However, guests need to bring their own water for the hike.

The day concludes with a delightful 3-course dinner at the hotel, allowing guests to relax and savor a delicious meal after their exhilarating Kepler Track adventure.

Approx. 7-10 kms (4.3-6.2 miles), 3-5 hours, moderate, 400m elevation

The day begins with a satisfying breakfast at hotel, setting the stage for an exciting adventure on the renowned Routeburn Track in Fiordland National Park. The guided day walk takes guests to Key Summit in the main mountain divide, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The track, which is 7-10 km long, involves a 400-meter ascent and descent. While mostly wide and without drop-offs, some short sections are steeper and rocky underfoot. The estimated walking time is between 3 to 5 hours.

To keep guests energized throughout the trek, a delightful picnic lunch is provided, individually packed and tailored to meet the preferences of the participants. The lunch includes a Roast Beef wrap with hummus, lettuce/spinach, roast beef, salad mix, capsicum, cheese, mayo, and sage and onion chutney. Additionally, a savoury scone with cheese, spinach, tomato, and herbs, a muesli slice, and a pear make for a satisfying meal. Guests are advised to bring their own water to stay hydrated during the hike.

After a day filled with natural beauty and exploration, guests can indulge in a well-deserved 3-course dinner at the hotel, making it a perfect end to an unforgettable day in Fiordland National Park.

Walking distance: 11 km, approx. 4 hours walking (Easy Grade).

Departing Te Anau to Milford Sound, the walk begins with a short boat ride to Sandfly Point. Here we begin walking (11 km return) alongside the cascading Arthur River and moody Lake Ada, on a well-maintained, track. Hike through ancient temperate rainforest surrounded by an array of ferns, moss, and lichens in vibrant shades of green to Giant Gate Waterfall. An expansive swing bridge provides a perfect photo opportunity at this point. The guide provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the fascinating human and natural heritage of the track. On completion of the walk, time is made for photos at the sign marking the end the track before walkers re-join the boat for the transfer back to Milford.

After a day filled with natural wonders, the adventure concludes with a farewell transfer back to Queenstown, leaving you with cherished memories of the mesmerizing Milford region.

Optional Upgrade: For an even more immersive experience, opt for the overnight cruise at an additional cost. Spend an unforgettable night surrounded by the beauty of Milford Sound, taking in the serenity of the fjords under the starlit sky. Please contact us if you wish to upgrade to the Milford Sound Overnight Cruise. Please advise the upgrade at time of booking. 

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.