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Peregrine Travel Centre

The Southern Fiords

The Southern Fiords

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Description

In Māori legend, the Fiords were formed by Tu-te-raki-whanoa. Chanting a powerful karakia or prayer he hacked at the towering rock walls with his adze and carved them from the earth. He reputedly started in the south working his way north to Milford Sound. He was inexperienced when he started, chopping repeatedly leaving many islands and inlets. His inexperience has created what is arguably one of the world’s finest and remotest cruising grounds. Join us on this expedition as we explore the many islands and inlets in the Southern Fiords.

Trip Name
The Southern Fiords
Days
9
Overview
Vessel Type: Small Ship Passenger Capacity: Up to 12 overnight in five cabins Lenght: 24 meters Built: 2017 Strannik is a Russian word translated as “Wanderer” or “Pilgrim”. Strannik is a person travelling in search of knowledge and wisdom. There is no better word nor way to describe our vessel, it has been born out of a natural curiosity and love of the natural world, history and travel.  It is designed, equipped and ready to explore the world and southern New Zealand. Cabins include private facilities with a bathroom including basin, toilet and shower. 8 passengers can comfortably fit within 4 twin/double cabins. Up to 12 passengers can be accomdated by prior agreement. Domestic comfort All cabins are fully insulated. Cruseair reverse-cycle systems throughout. Forced suction ventilation and fresh air seagoing vents and opening ports to all cabins. Opening hatches to most cabins. Spacious saloon and dining areas with great views. Each cabin has own entertainment docking station and screen, large theatre in saloon and music to all areas, reference library. Multiple fridge freezers, wine fridge, ice maker, full commercial laundry, garbage compactor, all electric commercial galley with Meile appliances. Navigation System A full double redundancy suite, featuring latest Simrad multinational navigational displays with dual range radars, high definition chart plotters, down scan and forward looking sonars, Satellite compass, Dual autopilots, and weather/climate monitoring instruments. The vessel is also fitted with CCTV and gyro stabilized Flir Night vision technology for added safety underway and on station. Communications System The latest Satellite communications with on-board Wi-Fi to all areas. Email and online connections. Satellite phone and data services Off shore with 4G cellular available in-shore for rapid streaming (location dependent), Long range HF SSB and VHF marine radios. Live online web based tracking system. Safety systems Full watertight compartments and double bottom throughout, automated Fire/smoke monitoring system to all compartments with bridge alarms. Comprehensive firefighting equipment and engine room Auto-fire flood system. All cabins with emergency exits and lighting. 2 x 20 man Solas life rafts, EPIRB’s, SART, Flares and personal emergency equipment including thermal protective aids, Solas approved life jackets and abandon ship supplies. Certified crew to assist and regular safety drills.

Itinerary



Day 1 - Day 1: Te Anau
We will arrange for a complimentary shuttle bus to pick you up from your Te Anau accommodation and transfer you to the heliport to join a helicopter transfer to the head of Long Sound (Preservation Inlet). On arrival you will be welcomed aboard the Strannik where we will introduce you to the team and the vessel. We plan to get underway for the lower reaches of Preservation Inlet to begin our exploration shortly thereafter.
Day 2 - Day 2 - 8: Southern Fiords
It is often claimed the Southern Fiords are the most spectacular, they are certainly the most expansive, with multiple arms or Fiords feeding into them, forming a labyrinth of exciting waterways and anchorages. The further south you travel the less precipitous the surrounding hills are and the number of Islands within each of the Fiords increases significantly. On this expedition we will explore each of the Southern Fiords using the early journals, maps and diaries of the first explorers, as well as reports from present day researchers and scientists to gain a greater appreciation of these truly remarkable places. This, coupled with an opportunity to see and experience first-hand the landscape and sites referred to in this literature will make for a memorable expedition. The journals of Captain Cook, who anchored in Dusky Sound from March to May 1773, gives us fascinating insights into pre-European history; his writings document his own exploration of the Fiords and explains many of the place names. Other early writers, like Andreas Reischek and Richard Henry, shed light onto the unique and abundant wildlife that was found here and, with intensive management by the Department of Conservation staff (and others) is slowly returning. Further South in Preservation Inlet the prospecting and mining period is well recorded and the relics and artefacts of the towns, gold mines and sawmills that once dotted its shores will help us appreciate and understand this period. The rugged coastal landscapes of these Fiords are nowhere better experienced and appreciated than at Puysguer Point. It is both a journey through history and some of New Zealand’s (if not the world’s) most stunning land and seascapes. It is hard to imagine that you would be disappointed.
Day 3 - Day 9: Te Anau
Breakfast aboard the Strannik anchored in the upper reaches of Doubtful Sound, then sadly it’s time for our farewells, before joining a transfer across the Wilmont Pass and Lake Manapouri to Te Anau and your accommodation, or your own transport arrangements.
Day 4 - Please Note:
Please note, we do not publish a day to day itinerary, except for first and the last days because these are expeditions. However each of our expeditions has a clear goal or objective and you have a role in both defining and achieving those. That, in our opinion, is the spirit of genuine expedition travel. Also please note, these are not “guided” trips, but the crew on board know the areas we are visiting intimately. There will be significant resources on board for your use.

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type

Inclusions

    • Discover some of the best areas of Fiordland
    • Explore each of the Southern Fiords
    • Visit areas including Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, Preservation Inlet and Puysguer Point
    • Small group tour with only 8 guests

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