doubtful sound

We had a magical 24 hours cruising on a small berthed boat of about 10 guests. The weather was kind providing clear blue skies, the 3 staff were delightful especially the 'captain'. We had our own ensuite, a surprisingly spacious cabin, great food with a whole cray fish each for lunch (freshly caught) & went kayaking with a guide. They also provide a nice dinner and breakfast the next day. Snacks are also available. But we were not there for the food. We saw some seals up close tho' this is in the open sea and I was concerned about getting seasick but we were not there for very long. The guides talk to you quite a bit about everything to do with the sound and who lived on little islands many years ago. The sound/fiord is simply stunning if not magical. They provide repellent, sunscreen and rods/bait. Really nice bunch of people who are keen to make this experience a once in a lifetime moment. They succeeded. We were totally spoilt for 24 hours. Take a wind proof/warm jacket with hood as the wind can be quite cool. I'd go again in a flash even though I've seen it - once is not enough.

Beautiful boat but unfortunately not good weather. There are 200 rainy days a year in this area! We kayaked, fished and collected crayfish from pots.

Doubtful Sound Overnight cruise was loved by my husband & I. The boat, cabin, staff & scenery was truly wonderful. We will treasure these memories for ever.

A very long day taking in coach and boat travel. Great commentary on boat and fantastic scenary. very enjoyable but be prepared for some repetitive views

we went on the overnight cruise weather was perfect,excellent food hardworking staff,and most of all the views,and the wildlife of doubtful sound

We took the overnight cruise which gave us plenty of time to enjoy the sound. It costs a lot, but it is probably something you will only do once. Cabins comfortable, crew informative and dedicated, food amazing! Experiences: kayaking, swimming, dolphins, seals, wildlife, scenery, forests, night-time on the water, the silence of the sound!

Absolutely fantastic. We were lucky enough to have the dolphins swim alongside us in the Sound. The whole trip was great, the commentator was very informative and weather was perfect. I highly recommend this trip across the Manapouri lake and the short coach trip to the utterly perfect Sound.

Brilliant experience, stunning scenery! We were lucky to have perfect weather. Well worth the visit.

The trip through Doubtful Sound was nothing but spectacular, the views, the staff, the food, the accomodations - everything was simply superb!Even the weather was perfect, blue skies, which might not always be the case, but I am sure it would be fantastic anyhow!www.realjourneys.co.nz/en/destinations/doubtful-sound/

We just loved doubtful sound. So pristine and not ruined by all the tourists. We saw 3-4 other boats in our 3hr cruise. It is a mission to get to, however we found the journey almost as good as the sound. The boat trip across the first lake was very scenic and had commentary the whole way. Cool powerstation to see, however it was closed to visitors when we were there. Less accessible than the more popular Milford Sound. Would recommend Doubtful if you have previously done Milford. Would not recommend you do both, could be too much of the same. It was quite expensive. Go Orange was the cheapest provider when we went. Were very happy with their service. Can pre-purchase lunch or bring your own (they even had a microwave on board the boat!). Not suitable for disabled people as there was boarding on and off the boats with small steps.

The full day excursion is a must for visitors to Te Anau. The boat voyage out to the mouth of the Sound where it meets the Tasman Sea is wonderful, there is so much to see. There is a very informative commentary during the cruise.

We had an overnight stay on Doubtful Sound through 'Real Journeys' and it was a wonderful experience from 'start to finish '. This company operates like a ' well oiled machine ', we were picked up at our accommodation on time and from then on cared for by pleasant, efficient staff throughout the duration of our stay. Overnighting on the 'Navigator' was a wonderful experience that I would thoroughly recommend. The stunning scenery is the main 'draw card' but the on board crew defineately enhanced the experience with their friendliness and knowledge. The food was fresh, tasty and well presented, the accommodation clean and comfortable. A definite ' must do' while in Te Anau!

This is a really exceptional trip. Activities to entertain including kayaking, small boat trips, swimming. Food excellent.We had really good weather, which is rare for the location.Saw dolphins and seals.Really worthwhile trip.

As the boat leaves at 8:00 am it was an early start for us.There is a ferry across the lake, followed by a comfortable coach trip to the sound and finally a cruise through the sound to the ocean and return.The day was fabulous as was the weather. Although we had rain, it was expected and added to the trip.The coach driver, Dan, was exceptionally helpful and knowledgeable. How he drives that mountain road is amazing. Both boats are comfortable and air conditioned. There is plenty to drink - tea and coffee are free - and they have sandwiches at reasonable prices. The commentary on the trip adds to the journey as we stopped to see Dolphins and penguins and were directed to other important sights.

We did an overnight trip on Doubtful on a small boat - 10 of us. Amazing trip with stunning scenery and a great team of 2 on the boat. Drive over Watsons pass was great.