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Our ticketing experience was perfect with no problems. Our trip out was out standing. Great crew on both boats and I think Tabitha was our guide. Very interesting and so knowledgeable and that's a credit to her. Apart from being quite windy and rather cold out experience was very memorable. My favourite part was seeing the Dolphins and where we stopped and the boat was turned off. Very tranquil.
The whole experience from booking to end was smooth and efficient. The trip more than lived up to our expectations and was very good value. Doubtful Sound was absolutely stunning and we were lucky to have a beautiful sunny day after heavy rain so the waterfalls were really impressive. The boat trip across Lake Manapouri and the coach trip over the pass really add to the whole experience. Good commentary from everyone throughout the trip without bombarding you with too much information. I would highly recommend this trip.
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Fantastic experience the whoke journey was amazing and informative we we very lucky with beautiful weather however this impacted the number of waterfalls . the team were very interesting and knowledgeable which kept the experience engrossing. Just loved it
Very well organized and informative. In particular, enjoyed the narration by Chris as we drove from Te Anau to Manapouri and back. Great guy!
Amazing!!..A very different and profound experience..
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Everything. Our bus driver Paulie was so knowledgeable and we felt very safe with his driving. The boat tour was amazing. Thank you
Manapouri is the quickest and most direct route to Doubtful Sound. Enjoy a short boat ride across Lake Manapouri, followed by a scenic bus trip through Wilmot Pass.
Recommended experience:
From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Start with a short drive from Te Anau to Manapouri, then cruise across the lake and take a bus through Wilmot Pass. A relaxed route with breathtaking views at every turn.
Recommended experience:
From Te Anau: Premium Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Combine adventure with nature on this scenic drive from Queenstown to Manapouri, followed by a boat ride and bus transfer to Doubtful Sound.
Recommended experience:
From Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Glide through mirror-like waters as towering cliffs rise around you – it's just you, your paddle, and pure wilderness.
Boarding time: Your voucher shows the departure time - arrive 20 minutes early to settle in
Manapouri transfer breakdown:
Peak season: Summer (Dec to Feb)
Low season: Winter (Jun - Aug)
Here's the scoop for each season:
Summer (15-20°C):
Spring (Sep-Nov) & Autumn (Mar-May):
Winter (5-10°C):
Pro tip: Rainy days create hundreds of temporary waterfalls – it's one of the most spectacular times to visit!
Starting point: Pearl Harbour, Manapōuri (Your gateway to Doubtful Sound)
Getting to Manapouri:
The journey continues with:
By car: Well-maintained roads, but winter driving needs experience
By bus: Regular services from major towns
Parking: Free parking available at Pearl Harbour, Manapouri
Your options are:
All cruise packages include:
Note: Winter roads can be challenging - booking a transfer service is highly recommended.
Discover the best of Fiordland with these nearby attractions, all just waiting for you to explore.
This experience includes a 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise, a Lake Manapouri cruise, a coach trip over Wilmot Pass, nature guide commentary, and complimentary tea and coffee.
The Queenstown package includes round-trip transfers from Queenstown and all features of the Manapouri cruise.
All trips to Doubtful Sound begin with a cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over Wilmot Pass. Transfers from Te Anau and Queenstown are also available.
From Manapouri, the trip lasts 7-8 hours; with transfers from Te Anau or Queenstown, it extends to 9-12 hours.
Doubtful Sound is home to a variety of wildlife, including a resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and, occasionally, Fiordland crested penguins. While sightings can't be guaranteed, the area offers excellent opportunities for observing these creatures in their natural habitat.
Complimentary tea and coffee are included, but meals are not provided unless specified in your booking.
Parking is typically available at Manapouri; confirm details when booking.
The cruise involves some walking during transfers, but it's generally suitable for individuals with moderate fitness levels.
The tour includes a boat cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass.
Yes, accommodation options are available in Manapouri, Te Anau, and Queenstown. It's recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Pre-booking is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.
A coach transfer from Te Anau to Manapouri connects you to the cruise and Wilmot Pass journey.
Choose a package based on your starting location—Manapouri, Te Anau, or Queenstown—for seamless transfers.
Yes, the Queenstown package includes round-trip transfers, ideal for a single-day excursion.
Cancellation and rescheduling policies depend on the terms provided during booking.