Itinerary in brief:
- 1 night onboard the 'Milford Mariner'
- 2 nights Te Anau
Day 1: Queenstown to Te Anau
You will be collected from Queenstown early this morning joining a small group. You will journey along the shores of Lake Wakatipu through rolling countryside to Te Anau. Continuing along the spectacular Milford Road through stunning mountain scenery, you won’t want to forget your camera! Upon arrival at Milford Sounds you will board the ‘Milford Mariner’ for your overnight Milford Sound cruise.
On board, you will get to view spectacular alpine scenery including waterfalls, rainforest and towering peaks as well as the local wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins. After reaching the open sea the sails may be hoisted, subject to weather and conditions. After the cruise, the vessel will return to the fiord and anchor overnight in sheltered Harrison Cove.
Day 2: Milford Sounds to Te Anau
After breakfast, you’ll spend the morning cruising before heading back to dock at 12.30 where you will be taken by coach back to picturesque Te Anau.
On arrival at your hotel, check in at your accommodation for a 2-night stay, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 3: Te Anau to Doubtful Sound
Today begins with a coach journey through rolling countryside to Manapouri before boarding a cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri to West Arm.
A coach will then take you across the alpine route of Wilmot Pass on a journey through some of Fiordland's most dense rainforest. Upon reaching Deep Cove, board the vessel Patea Explorer for a three-hour cruise exploring the serene and isolated fiord that is Doubtful Sound.
During the cruise, the vessel’s engines are turned off and you’re treated to the ‘sound of silence’ before re-tracing the journey back to Te Anau, where you will stay overnight.
Day 4: Te Anau to Queenstown
After 3 days of serenity in this magical part of the world, it’s time to board the coach for your journey back to Queenstown where you will arrive early afternoon.