Cruise and Discover Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds

Description

Due to the early departure and late return times of our Fiordland Cruises we recommend you overnight for one night before and one night after your cruise in Te Anau.
Cruise across serene Lake Manapouri, coach over Wilmot Pass and meet Affinity in Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound and cruise to discover the raw dramatic beauty of Fiordland’s coast
Travel in the path of Captain James Cook and learn all about the rich and fascinating history of his early voyages to this remote part of New Zealand
Visit historic sites such as: the first European house site, first recorded shipwreck in New Zealand and where the firs vessel was built by Europeans in 1795
Visit Astronomers Point where Captain Cooks Astronomer cleared the trees and recorded a transit on Venus at his first landing in Fiordland
Walk through beautiful remote native rainforest that has never been cleared, it is still in its original state as it was before man stepped foot on the land
Get up close to stunning roaring waterfalls as they cascade down steep, sheer cliffs
Visit a cove where a number of fur seal pups swim around the rocks. When we put the tender in the water the pups are very nosey and like to swim alongside and pop up out of the water to see what’s going on. You may also see Mollymawks and Albatross. Few people get to see this part of New Zealand
We often have the extreme privilege of sighting whales in their natural habitat and playful bottlenose dolphins often join in for a race with the ship’s bow.
Fish for grouper and other big species in the bountiful waterways of this pristine area
All walks are optional, you may wish to stay on board and relax, there may be a shorter walk option that would suit you better. Please understand you are responsible for your own safety and actions during these unguided walks.

Trip Name

Cruise and Discover Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: Small Ship Passenger Capacity: 16 The vessel Affinity was purpose-built in Picton by Carey’s Boatyard for the type of cruising that she does. Affinity has 8 guest cabins, a comfortable lounge for dining and relaxing, and a spacious deck. Affinity Features: Accommodation is onboard the vessel in 8 cabins (twin share — bed and bunk or double bed). If you are a sole passenger and require a cabin to yourself, our single supplement is available. All cruises are fully catered and all linen is supplied. 3 bathrooms facilities on the main deck — separate ladie's and men’s — with a good supply of hot water. Air conditioning for summer and central heating for winter. Spacious vessel both inside and out, including a comfortable lounge area. Lots of interesting books to read, as well as a few board games. Easy access both on and off the vessel, with platform steps at the stern of the vessel. 4-metre inflatable tender for shore excursions and for use when divers are in the water. Use of gumboots for on deck and going ashore. First aid certificates held by crew members, plus an oxygen cylinder onboard. Vessel complies with all safety regulations and holds all appropriate licences.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Days 1 - 7 Fiordland Cruising

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland with a cruise across Lake Manapouri, coach journey over Wilmot Pass, and exploration of Doubtful Sound's dramatic coast. Follow in Captain James Cook's footsteps, visiting historic sites and Astronomers Point. Enjoy walks through untouched native rainforest and witness roaring waterfalls and fur seal pups. Encounter whales and playful dolphins, and try fishing for large species in pristine waters. Consider an optional 6-night cruise with a helicopter flight over snow-capped mountains. Overnight stays in Te Anau are recommended due to early departures and late returns. Note that all walks are optional, and passengers are responsible for their safety during unguided walks.

Day 2 - Please Note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Doubtful Sound Discovery: Cruise through serene Lake Manapouri, coach over Wilmot Pass, and explore Doubtful Sound's raw beauty, encountering waterfalls, untouched rainforest, and playful fur seal pups.
Captain Cook's Historical Trail: Trace Captain James Cook's early voyages, visiting historic sites like the first European house and shipwreck, and explore Astronomers Point where Venus was recorded in 1795.
Marine Wonders and Fishing Excursion: Witness whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, see Mollymawks and Albatross, and try fishing for large species in the pristine waters of Fiordland.