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Sightseeing Cruises

From Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise

Woman laughing on boat deck during Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise, New Zealand.
Couple on tour boat deck viewing waterfall in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand.
Two people enjoy champagne and a charcuterie board on the Doubtful Sound cruise.
Couple laughing on a boat with waterfall and cliffs in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand.

Duration

12 hr

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

Transfers included

Explore the untouched wilderness of New Zealand with a full-day Doubtful Sound Cruise, offering scenic views, wildlife sightings, and a nature guide.

    • Escape the hustle and enjoy this full-day tour of Doubtful Sound, a fiord 3 times longer than Milford Sound, with transfers from Queenstown and a guide.

    • Traverse the crystal clear waters of serene Lake Manapouri on a cruise, then board a coach to cross the alpine route of the majestic Wilmot Pass.

    • Don't miss the spectacular views of rugged peaks, secret inlets, and rainforests, while learning about Fiordland's biodiversity from your guide.

    • Cruise Doubtful Sound's waters for 3 hours on a Patea Explorer for a 360° viewing experience, all while sipping on your complimentary tea or coffee.

    • Fun fact: Doubtful Sound, a haven for wildlife such as dolphins and fur seals, got its name from Captain Cook who was 'doubtful' of its navigability.

    • Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour

    • Cruise across Lake Manapouri

    • Coach trip over Wilmot Pass

    • Round-trip transfers from Queenstown

    • Knowledgable nature guide

    • Informative commentary

    • Interpretation hand-out sheets in 5 languages: English, German, French, Spanish & Japanese

    • Complimentary tea & coffee

    • Meals & drinks
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

  • How do we collect reviews?

    4.3
    103 ratings
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    Trudy fermor

    Trudy

    Mar, 2025Verified booking

    5/5
    Everything. Our bus driver Paulie was so knowledgeable and we felt very safe with his driving. The boat tour was amazing. Thank you
  • Immerse in the pristine wilderness

    Set out on a mesmerizing journey that begins with a tranquil cruise across Lake Manapouri, one of New Zealand's most beautiful bodies of water. The adventure continues with a breathtaking coach trip over the Wilmot Pass, the country's most expensive road, offering unparalleled views of the lush Fiordland rainforest. You'll then descend into the heart of Fiordland National Park, bound for remote Doubtful Sound. This journey of discovery is made comfortable with round-trip transfers from Queenstown, informative hand-outs in multiple languages, and the warm hospitality of complimentary tea & coffee.

    Wildlife encounters & scenic waters

    It's now time to step aboard the Patea Explorer for an exceptional 3-hour cruise within the tranquil waterways of Doubtful Sound. Your knowledgeable skipper doubles as a nature guide, offering fascinating insights into the rich biodiversity of the region. Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin as you sail amidst the towering peaks and verdant rainforests. The isolation of Doubtful Sound makes it a wildlife haven, and you'll feel the thrill of being in a place visited by only the most intrepid of travelers.

  • What to bring

    • It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, and a warm sweater or fleece jacket.

    • It is advised to carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and an insect repellent.

    Accessibility

    • Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.

    Additional information

    • The cruise vessel is subject to change without notice.
    • Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.

    • Please display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the redemption point.

    Ticket redemption point

    • Please check your final voucher for the redemption point details and specific instructions.

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