Doubtful Sound: Queenstown's Ultimate Fiordland Wilderness Cruise
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Be struck by the beautiful silence of Doubtful Sound as you cruise the crystal waters and take in the breathtaking scenery. Journey across Lake Manapouri, cross over the 670-meter high Wilmot Pass and enjoy a 2 hour and 45-minute cruise through pure serenity that is Doubtful Sound. This trip is a round trip of approximately 13 hours. If you wish to pre-order a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after booking. Hotel pick up/drop off from select locations is available - please call RealNZ directly to find out if there is a pick up close to your accommodation. Please be sure to arrive at your pick up location 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
Kenton_J, 9/17/2025 8:46:06 PM
Doubtful Sound really is a must see when in this part of New Zealand. Most people tend to go to Milford Sound, which is also spectacular, but Doubtful Sound is equally spectacular and different than Milford Sound. Had a great time and was a lot to take in even though it was a rainy day. Well worth the experience regardless of weather.
MRSSLNEWBROOK_N, 9/9/2025 4:07:17 PM
Wonderful day. Fantastic scenery, informative guides, comfortable safe transportation. Plenty of opportunities to get a drink/snack during the trip. Would go again, no question.
craigsJ182SW, 8/19/2025 8:52:34 PM
This is a must do trip, seriously. The trip there is multiple buses and boats, but the journey is so worth it. No where near as busy as Milford Sound and you can really feel at one with nature. Breathtaking views and an occasional penguin and fur seal along the way.
Dorothy_I, 8/15/2025 4:28:47 AM
The timetable worked perfectly. All transfers went very smoothly. I had requested a forward seat, because I suffer travel sickness and I was able to sit up front which was wonderful.
Maria_V, 8/12/2025 5:31:28 AM
Super wonderful experience and once in a lifetime unforeseen adventure and surroundings. Highly recommend. Thanks
Kim_N, 8/6/2025 2:59:28 AM
Wow! The staff was extremely accommodating throughout the day, regardless of the light rain we experienced. From the drivers of the buses, to the captains and their staffs working the boats everyone was fantastic & the day went quickly and was well organized. The buses and boats were clean and well kept. Having experienced both Doubtful and Milford this week, this tour was relaxing and informative and didn’t seem as long as I imagined. I loved the fact that everyone involved stressed the importance of preservation, and great to hear profits from this tour are donated to preserving this incredible place. Great team effort!
Doremy_T, 7/29/2025 1:11:08 AM
On the long bus ride from Queenstown, Pete kept us occupied with a lot of interesting and humorous commentary. There was good food and great hospitality on both boat rides. We enjoyed the fiord, the mountains, ocean, seals, clouds, rainbows, and the mighty peacefulness.
Vickilee_H, 6/30/2025 4:54:40 AM
So well organised. Every member of the staff were friendly, helpful and professional. A wonderful experience
Ingrid S, 6/13/2025 3:30:03 PM
The tour was a great day out. Very peaceful & informative. The crew from Real NZ great. Dissappointed in cost for this tour paid $100 extra instead of going direct. A huge difference which I could clearly have used towards another adventure. Expensive day but beautiful scenery.
Amelia_D, 4/27/2025 6:32:34 PM
Fantastic experience, such an adventure. Knowledgeable and friendly staff and tour guides - Peanut and Andrew were exceptional! Would definitely recommend if visiting Queenstown.
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Please wear comfortable shoes, waterproof jacket and warm clothing
- Please note: During survey the Patea Explorer will be substituted with another vessel from the RealNZ fleet
Departure point
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.Return details
Be struck by the beautiful silence of Doubtful Sound as you cruise the crystal waters and take in the breathtaking scenery. Journey across Lake Manapouri, cross over the 670-meter high Wilmot Pass and enjoy a 2 hour and 45-minute cruise through pure serenity that is Doubtful Sound. This trip is a round trip of approximately 13 hours. If you wish to pre-order a picnic lunch, please contact the supplier directly after booking. Hotel pick up/drop off from select locations is available - please call RealNZ directly to find out if there is a pick up close to your accommodation. Please be sure to arrive at your pick up location 15 minutes before your scheduled departure.Redemption
If you would like to arrange a local hotel pick up or if you would like to add on a lunch or upgrade your seating you are welcome to contact RealNZ via phone at least 48 hours prior to departure or preferably as soon as you’ve booked. Hotel pickups commence prior to the departure time, you must contact us to verify your exact pickup time. Upon check in please present your voucher in exchange for your activity. Please ensure you check in 20 minutes prior to departure time. We also recommend packing with you: Comfortable walking shoes/boots, a waterproof jacket, warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent and a camera!24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund