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Manapouri Tours
Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri
5

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

By RealNZ
Recommended by 96% of travellers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
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Experience the remote beauty of Doubtful Sound on a full-day tour from Manapouri. Boat across Lake Manapouri, drive over Wilmot Pass, then transfer to a catamaran for your cruise on the sound. Look for New Zealand wildlife like bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and penguins, and learn from your guide about this pristine wilderness in a less-visited part of Fiordland National Park.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 0-99, max of 135 per group
Duration: 7h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Highlights
  • Relax aboard a catamaran cruise through stunning Doubtful Sound
  • Explore the rainforest and waterways of Fiordland National Park
  • Experience the South Island’s uncrowded wilderness and native wildlife
  • Choose from a few morning departure times to suit your itinerary

  • Live commentary on board
What's not included
  • Food and drinks (available to purchase)
  • Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

Start your tour with a short cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a drive over the Wilmot Pass. Make stops along the way to experience the dense rainforest of Fiordland National Park and to view Doubtful Sound from above.  Upon arrival at the water, board your spacious catamaran for the Doubtful Sound cruise. Your naturalist guide shares commentary about the natural landmarks and wildlife you might see, including bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin. Choose from several morning departures for your tour to Doubtful Sound, a gorgeous destination that rivals popular Milford Sound for natural beauty, yet remains less crowded. Non-slip shoes, warm fleece or sweater, waterproof jacket, sun protection, and insect repellent are recommended. Your tour ends with your return to Manapouri.

Start:
  • 64 Waiau Street, Manapouri 9679, New Zealand
    Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    • Not wheelchair accessible
    If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 2264P28

    • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a rain jacket or hat, as necessary
    • Most travellers can participate
    • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
    • Please note: During survey the Patea Explorer will be substituted with another vessel from the RealNZ fleet
    • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
    • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 135 travellers

    • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

    If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 2264P28

    From
    $339.00
    per adult
    Select date and travellers

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    Itinerary
    • 64 Waiau Street, Manapouri 9679, New Zealand
      Please be sure to arrive 20 minutes before your scheduled departure to check in.
    • 1
    • 2
    • 3
    About the operator
    Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
    • RealNZ
      1,761
      Manapouri, New Zealand
      Joined in May 2009
    • bmi1197
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing experience - did not disappoint
      This was one of our must see things to do in New Zealand and it did not disappoint. The experience was amazing and was better than I expected. To see how the water has carved out the caves was very interesting with the waterfalls and rushing water. Then to see the glowworms up close was a once in a lifetime chance for us. Highly recommend stopping in Te Anau for the tour and to have lunch.
      Written 18 January 2025
    • KB1125
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Amazing!!
      Well organized,friendly and courteous staff,felt safe on the buses and boats while driving to and from our destination. The scenery was amazing,beautiful,spectacular
      Written 17 January 2025
    • Wendybel
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Fantastic Doubtful Sound Cruise with a Great Guide
      We took the full-day coach-boat-coach-boat cruise to Doubtful Sound, and it was an unforgettable experience. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking, and the boat rides offered fantastic views of this pristine wilderness. The highlight was a delicious cheese platter for lunch—perfect for recharging during the day. A special shout-out to Dan, our tour guide. He was fantastic—knowledgeable, personable, and truly made the trip memorable. He really knows how to keep the energy up throughout the long day. Speaking of which, be prepared for a full 13-hour day—it's a long haul, but totally worth it. One thing to note: with multiple guides throughout the journey, some commentary can feel a bit repetitive at times. However, this doesn't take away from the overall experience. Highly recommend this tour if you're looking to explore one of New Zealand’s most stunning locations!
      Written 13 January 2025
    • N4957ERhollyp
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      A glowing review
      Lake Te Anau boat ride was a highlight even before we got to the glow worm caves. The guide I had was really enthusiastic and delivered his knowledge well. The glow worm caves themselves were just amazing. I have lived in New Zealand for 18 years and seen glow worms in various places but not like this....
      Written 12 January 2025
    • abigailbP360VQ
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      super trip
      Really enjoyed the whole experience, boat ride was as enjoyable as the glow worms. All the staff were well trained and knowledgeable
      Written 12 January 2025
    • cherylkG4484KI
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      I never realized the power of worms
      educational, entertaining, and quite spectacular views on the boat ride to the caves. Young guides were professional and courteous. Highly recommend the experience.
      Written 12 January 2025
    • leofK2050GK
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Pitch Black
      Amazing. Friendly staff and smooth boat ride across Lake Te Anau to the caves with great views of the surrounding mountains. Entrance to the caves is narrow but that doesn't last long and soon your in a big cavernous area. The tour guides are very well learned about the caves and are happy to answer any questions. The boat ride in the caves is in pitch darkness. The caves were so dark that even if you had your hand less than a centimeter away you couldn't even see an outline. Then, the caves started to glow blue. The glow worms were spectacular and you get to learn more about them once back from the tour. It's good to get the 9am tour so you can have lunch immediately after if you wish to. We did the tour with Realnz who's rendezvous point is very near to a very good pie shop called 'Miles Better Pies'.
      Written 9 January 2025
    • V1119TWfredp
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Must-see!
      This is a must-see! There are caves and there are glowworms, but this cave is entirely unique, as were the glowworms situated just over your head in the cave boat. Very exciting ad educational tour!
      Written 8 January 2025
    • JEllen588
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Te Anau must! Glow worms on the South Island
      Great staff, fun environment, educational. Wish the cave was bigger and more time could have been spent in it, but well worth the time and money.
      Written 7 January 2025
    • I9412QTdalem
      0 contributions
      4.0 of 5 bubbles
      Worth the money!
      Run very well, I’m not great in crowds, but this was nice. I’d rather you’d be surprised so I won’t say much other than for the money you should book it. Me my wife and my sons family, 7 & 9 year old really were impressed. People who ran it were very good. Not a bad day at 18c yet it was cool on the upper deck in the wind, dress for cool weather, hat/hood etc if you plan to ride outside. Money well spent.
      Written 7 January 2025
    • Q1272VTjennam
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Great experience and veiws
      Great tour highly recommend our 10 year old loved it! Great facilities and no waiting around flowed smoothly, And our tour guide Dom had a great sence of humor 👌 being kiwi and exploring our back yard 🏞
      Written 6 January 2025
    • KKNZ24
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Not to be missed!
      Cannot speak highly enough about Real NZ's overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound in NZ. We were on the Navigator. The crew, the food, the scenery, the weather (lucky us) were all stellar, truly. I would say this was a trip of a lifetime. Real NZ does a fantastic job -- everything from the first leg across Manapouri Lake, to the informative and fun bus driver across Wilmot Pass, to the excellent cruise in the fjord to the Tasman Sea and back. The captain was an expert navigating the swells and tides. The crew was friendly, helpful, gracious. And Dev the naturalist provided great commentary and education. Thank you all, Navigator staff!
      Written 3 January 2025
    • Seaside24555847847
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Don’t miss out
      Fantastic experience. Tour guides were very clued up and accommodating. The trip was an experience not to be missed while in Te Anau
      Written 2 January 2025
    • sawyer71
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Thoroughly recommend
      Great trip with family. Ideal for all ages. Boat crew informative and friendly. Cave guides also super well presented and professional. Our guide Anzac was very knowledgable and great with all ages in our group. He was friendly and a credit to the company. Thoroughly recommend doing this when in Te Anau.
      Written 28 December 2024
    • 290shreyag
      0 contributions
      5.0 of 5 bubbles
      Truly Magical
      The Glowworm Caves tour in Te Ananu was an enriching experience. The boat ride through the dark, silent caves revealed thousands of glowworms lighting up the walls like a starry night. The peaceful ambience and the beauty of nature's tiny wonders made this tour truly unforgettable.
      Written 27 December 2024
    See all 1,761 reviews
    These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    5.0
    5.0 of 5 bubbles226 reviews
    Excellent
    187
    Very good
    30
    Average
    5
    Poor
    2
    Terrible
    2

    kristabel2016
    Napier, New Zealand2,002 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2021
    I have recently done this cruise for the 2nd time (the first time being 15 years ago). That was such a great experience have been wanting to do it again ever since. Our main reason for being in the area was to walk the Routeburn Track and we were all keen (myself and husband and one other couple) to do this trip before the walk.

    Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately) we were in Level 2 at the time. This meant certain measures were in place that wouldn't otherwise have been but none of those made the trip any less enjoyable. If anything, I think being in Level 2 made it better for us as the number of people on board was approx half the capacity of the boat. All 4 of us felt that, at capacity (73 passengers), it would have been too crowded. Although, when I did it last time I can't recall feeling that was the case...but that was a different time (pre-pandemic).

    As per my memories of the previous trip the food and hospitality were great and the kayaking was fantastic. There was also great commentary throughout the trip of the fiord's geology, flora and fauna. Likewise on Lake Manapouri and the Willmott Pass.

    The accommodation is basic (as expected) but with everything you need and really comfortable beds. We were so warm we slept with our door open all night. If you want to sleep in until the last possible minute (which would probably be 7am if you're lucky) seek a room not immediately below the galley so that the preparation of a delicious breakfast doesn't wake you.

    Our only gripe (other than the average weather....and there's nothing to be done about that) was our cabin's toilet which was a bit of a disaster. The communal toilets (on the same level as the dining area) have a sign in them saying to 'hold flush button for at least 4s to avoid blockages'. Suffice to say...if the toilets in the cabins had the same signs, it would have been REALLY helpful.

    I really enjoyed this trip once more but if I do an overnighter on DS again I would probably try a smaller boat just for a bit of a change but do not say that to, in any way, detract from the awesome experience that RJ provide on their amazing boat staffed by dedicated, wonderful people. Having now done this trip twice I highly recommend it as a truly magical and special experience.
    Written 31 March 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    cassandraw224
    Christchurch, New Zealand13 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Apr 2021
    This was a trip of a life time and such a new experience. Well worth the money involved. The boat ride from one side of Lake Manapouri to the other was in a lovely boat and the staff were friendly and helpful. Complimentary tea and coffee. Good commentary. We then transferred to a bus and our driver was knowledgeable and stopped along the way for photo opportunities. We then boarded another beautiful boat to cruise around Doubtful Sound. The commentary was very informative and clear. He welcomed questions. We packed our own lunch but you could purchase food and drink items on board with cash. This was an amazing experience and you just can't compare it to a cruise on Milford Sound as they are totally different. You need to experience them both. The trip ends with the return bus and boat cruise back to the foreshore of Lake Manapouri.
    Written 15 April 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Kiwidreamer
    Auckland, New Zealand407 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2021 • Couples
    We thoroughly enjoyed our long anticipated overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound with Real Journeys. COVID prevented us going last April and it was touch and go this time round.

    The food was all wonderful, the crew all friendly and the information shared added to the experience. We didnt have great weather but that didn't matter, just bring warm clothing and wet weather gear and get outside on deck and take it all in. If you prefer to keep dry there are covered areas and a front closed in observation cabin where you can still see plenty.

    Level 2 restrictions surprisingly worked in our favour - lower passenger numbers and a well organised crew who overall followed the rules at this level very well and made sure we all understood what was required - hand sanitiser readily available throughout the boat plus a small bottle per couple handed out at check in plus the same eating companions for each meal to limit mingling and the risk that comes with that.

    From check in to Lake Manapouri boat trip to bus trip over Wilmot Pass to overnight on Doubtful Sound - all aspects were just great, a highlight of our trip.
    Written 7 March 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Linda A
    Peterborough, UK39 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020 • Couples
    This was a lovely day out. Trip consisted of a 50 min (fairly fast) ride across Manapouri Lake. We then took a 50 min coach trip across land to the sound and our guide/driver Malcolm made some photo stops and provided interesting and amusing commentary on the way. We then had about 2 hours (?) on Doubtful. Stunning scenery. We caught it after rain so there were lots of falls and cascades to see. We went right to the sea to visit a colony of fur seals with their pups. Even on a calm dry day it was VERY blustery on deck and you’ll need a warm fleece and coat if you feel the cold.
    Written 20 February 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    niamhs456
    County Cork, Ireland538 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2020
    My husband and I did this tour recently and it was amazing . It is such a well run trip again from real journeys , they really know what they are doing . Its so easy to sit back and relax for the day on this trip . It starts with a 30 min or so ride to across manapouri lake which is lovely and the boat is super comfy . Then you have about 10 to 15 mins at the information centre across the island while the buses are prepped . Here there are some information stands about the area, the electric plant etc to read or you can wander slightly outside...though even in winter there are sandflies to watch for and of course there are bathrooms. Then its a 40 min coach trip to the next boat ride for the few hours on doubtful sound . this is a fantastic tour, so informative and relaxing in winter. The weather isnt like milford as its more overcast for sure and rainy but the boats are super warm and have abudant tea and coffee for free or some snacks ( most people bring there own food as it is advised as its a cash bar on the boat ) . You get heaps of time to wander the boat on all levels even to the front of these boats which is unusual to me but fantastic. the crew have heaps if knowledge and answer all questions with a smile.
    A must do tour i cannot rave about it anymore !!!
    Written 12 August 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    SBPB2014
    Hamilton, New Zealand55 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2021
    This has been one of the highlights of our holiday in the Queenstown area. We had the best of both weathers - the rain on the first day and sunshine the following day which showed us the many facets of this wondrous sound. We were able to explore the area in a small boat whilst it was raining and see nature at its finest with a helpful guide ( thank you Roo). What makes this so special is going into different parts or arms of the sound. The dinner and the breakfast were delicious and plentiful and the nature talk at night was most informative especially hearing the bird calls.
    Thank you so much and this is definitely a must see.
    The only criticism was when the driver was asked if masks were required on the bus taking us over Wilmot Pass we were told this was unnecessary as in down south there was no Covid danger.
    Written 2 March 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Poppy T
    Sydney, Australia165 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mar 2023
    We did the Doubtful Sound tour starting in Te Anau which involved a short bus trip from Te Anau to Manapouri. We were wondering if this was the best option and quickly realised that it was, as it avoided the hassle of trying to find a parking spot from the jetty!
    The tour takes you by fast ferry across Lake Manapouri, then by bus across to Doubtful Sound. The bus drivers are lots of fun and make that part of the process enjoyable.
    Lake Manapouri itself is very scenic, but nothing compared to Doubtful Sound, the scenery and photo opportunities are pretty well non-stop.
    There are two things which I highly recommend. Firstly, organise a lunch box through RealNZ, it is great value, with ample food and variety and there is nothing else available! Secondly, follow the requirements suggested by RealNZ when you book ie. make sure that you take insect repellent, the sandflies are vicious on arrival and departure of the Lake Manapouri ferry!
    Written 24 March 2023
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Thank you for joining our Doubtful Sound adventure and sharing your insights! Your suggestions are perfect for future guests.
    Written 4 April 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    JayEdward
    Florida86 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020
    Per Kiwis, Doubtful Sound is better than Milford Sound and thus well worth the effort. Real Journeys makes it easy. We drove to Manapouri to get the first boat across Lake Manapouri where you then take a modern coach over the Wilmot Pass to board the vessel in Deep Cove for the three hours on Doubtful Sound. They also do pick ups in nearby Te Anau and elsewhere. If you drive yourself leave extra time to find parking. Also bring your own lunch or preorder one. Doubtful Sound is much bigger with more arms to it and much less traffic - we hardly saw other vessels while we were on Doubtful Sound. It also takes you all the way out to the Tasman Sea plus rare quiet time in a secluded cove where they shut the engines and drift for a time - magical.
    Written 22 February 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
    Kia Ora Jay. Thank you very much for your 5 star review. Hearing the sounds of nature when the vessel's engines are off is often a highlight for our guests and we agree it is a magical experience. Enjoy the rest of your visit to our region. Kind Regards - The Team at Real Journeys.
    Written 24 February 2020
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Aug 2021
    isiting Doubtful Sound was a bucket list item for me. I recently went aboard on one of Real Journey's new two-night/three-day cruises. I fully recommend the experience, as it was very relaxed and the length allowed us to experience a real variety of weather conditions.

    Highlights of the trip were all of the wildlife we saw (mollymawks, dolphins, penguins), our nature guide Courtney who was exceptional and, as many reviewers point out, the food on board!

    Over the course of the cruise we had the opportunity to explore every arm of Doubtful Sound, it was surprising how different each area of the fiord was. I would definitely do this trip again, I thought it was great value for money.
    Written 31 August 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

    Stephen
    41 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Feb 2020
    This excursion starts with a cruise on Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over the Wilmot Pass & then a 3 hr cruise on Doubtful Sound to the Tasman Sea.

    This was a great excursion & the weather was good. The guides & the commentary were very interesting & informative & we thoroughly enjoyed this trip.
    Written 3 March 2020
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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    Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri provided by RealNZ

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