From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip

Top rated
4.775289 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.775289 out of 5 stars
1384 reviews
Activity provider:RealNZ
a@abigailhannnah
From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Trip
Likely to sell out
Top rated
4.775289 out of 5 stars
4.8
4.775289 out of 5 stars
1384 reviews

Explore the spectacular Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park on a day trip from Manapouri. Cruise across Lake Manapouri, admire the views of Wilmot Pass, and discover the waterways of Doubtful Sound.

About this tour

Free cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later
Keep your travel plans flexible — book your spot and pay nothing today.
Duration 7 hours
Check availability to see starting times
Live tour guide
English

Highlighted reviews from other travelers

R
Raymond – New Zealand

day trip was great.rained all day added to how spectaculer the sound is.really enjoyed our day with you.

I
Irene – United States

The trip was excellent. Tour guide experienced and gave interesting history of Doubtful Sound as we coasted down into the Sound. Lovely waterfalls, sea life, and flora. The moment of silence to appreciate the area gelt spiritual in a way. I highly recommend this tour!

Select participants and date

Highlights

  • Experience a peaceful cruise across the crystal-clear Lake Manapouri to West Arm
  • Learn about the region's flora and fauna from a knowledgeable nature guide
  • Admire the spectacular views of Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park
  • Keep on the lookout for bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, or crested penguins
  • Discover the spectacular views of Wilmot Pass as you ride across on the bus

Full description

Discover the beauty of Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park on a guided day trip from Manapouri. Cruise across Lake Manapouri, ride over Wilmot Pass, and admire the magical waterways of Doubtful Sound.

Choose the early departure option for a half-day trip that includes a 2-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound's inner fjords, or choose the standard full-day trip that includes a 3-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound.

Make a stop en route to experience the dense Fiordland rainforest. At Deep Cove, board the Patea Explorer, a purpose-built catamaran, for a 3-hour scenic cruise on Doubtful Sound.

Admire waterfalls, rainforests, and mountains during the cruise. You might spot the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins, the colony of fur seals at the mouth of the fiord, or even rare Fiordland crested penguins. During the cruise, knowledgeable nature guides will provide informative commentary.

Admire the views of rock faces with flowing waterfalls, mist hanging around the tops of the mountains, and gushing rivers and streams. At the end of your tour, return to the departure point in Manapouri.

Includes

  • Round-trip cruise across Lake Manapouri
  • Round-trip bus journey across Wilmot Pass through the rainforest
  • 3-hour cruise of Doubtful Sound
  • Guides
  • Food and drinks (available for purchase)

Not suitable for

  • Wheelchair users

Meeting point

Check-in at the Real NZ Visitor Center in Manapouri.

Open in Google Maps

Important information

What to bring

  • Sunglasses
  • Camera
  • Hiking shoes
  • Sunscreen
  • Jacket
  • Rain gear
  • Insect repellent
  • Weather-appropriate clothing

Know before you go

  • Allow approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Queenstown and 30 minutes to drive to Manapouri from Te Anau
  • It is recommended to bring clothing and footwear for cool and wet weather
  • Only card payments are accepted for purchases onboard
  • Be prepared for rainfall during your visit

Customer reviews

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 1384 reviews

Review summary

  • Guide
    4.8/5
  • Transportation
    4.8/5
  • Value for money
    4.5/5

Customer photos

+114
Filter
By star rating
Sort by:
R
Raymond – New ZealandMay 21, 2025 – Verified booking
day trip was great.rained all day added to how spectaculer the sound is.really enjoyed our day with you.
I
Irene – United StatesApril 28, 2025 – Verified booking
The trip was excellent. Tour guide experienced and gave interesting history of Doubtful Sound as we coasted down into the Sound. Lovely waterfalls, sea life, and flora. The moment of silence to appreciate the area gelt spiritual in a way. I highly recommend this tour!
K
Kayla – New ZealandApril 23, 2025 – Verified booking
Fabulous day trip - communication was clear and I felt like I knew exactly how the day was going to run. Both boats had plenty of outdoor and indoor seating, good bathrooms, and snacks/drinks available. The views were incredible and it felt like we were the only ones out there.

Product ID: 126227

Activity provider:RealNZ

Experiences in South Island

Tours in New Zealand

Things to do in New Zealand

Top destinations

Top attraction categories

Popular Attractions