Come aboard the intimate Heritage Explorer yacht to explore some of New Zealand's most remote and biologically rich regions with experienced guides. On board, enjoy comfortable spaces, sophisticated food and beverages, and warm camaraderie.
Photo by: L. Sanson/Heritage Expeditions
Fiordland Explored: Doubtful & Dusky Sound Cruises
Come aboard 18-guest Heritage Explorer to discover two of the most remote and spectacular of Fiordland's destinations: Doubtful and Dusky Sounds. Along the way, experience significant historical and conservation sites, seek endemic wildlife and enjoy guided activities by a New Zealand-based crew.
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$2,860
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PER PERSON
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Discover Fiordland’s iconic Doubtful and Dusky Sounds—home to significant historical and conservation sites in New Zealand. This special expedition pairs two of the most remote and spectacular of Fiordland’s destinations (select departures focus entirely on Dusky Sound).
In this compact vacation by sea, explore World Heritage Area Dusky Sound, one of Fiordland’s largest fiords some 25 miles (40km) long and studded with more than 350 islands. Equally impressive, New Zealand’s deepest fiord Doubtful Sound boasts lush rainforests, towering waterfalls and resident populations of New Zealand fur seals and rare Fiordland crested penguins.
Established in 1952, New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is rich in endemic wildlife, natural history, geology, historical firsts and conservation projects. Expect waterfalls, streams, rivers and fiords enveloped with misty veils that come and go, revealing steep gradients of mountain peaks and sheltered valleys.
Cruise aboard 18-guest Heritage Explorer, a yacht that’s spacious enough for private moments but also encourages making newfound friends. This New Zealand-born ship, with a family-run Kiwi crew and guides, offers kayaks, a hydraulic aft platform, sophisticated food, regional libations, and cabins for solo and paired travelers. Tap into the passion of the biologists, botanists and adventurers that have designed her itineraries that include regular opportunities for citizen science. She is an AdventureSmith favorite for private charter cruises due to her cozy, inviting feel and size.
Read on for details about this Doubtful Sound overnight cruise, or learn more about AdventureSmith’s New Zealand small ship cruises.
Fiordland Explored: Cruising Fiordland's Iconic Doubtful & Dusky Sounds (Northbound) Itinerary
Te Anau, New ZealandTe Anau, New Zealand
Sail the south-central fiords from Dusky Sound to Doubtful Sound, with included transfers (helicopter and coach bus) to start and end in Te Anau.
Meet with your fellow expeditioners in Te Anau, then take in the grand views and awe-inspiring scenery as you enjoy a spectacular helicopter transfer to join the ship in Dusky Sound. The captain and expedition leader will be waiting to welcome you aboard the ship and show you to your cabin. Settle into life aboard before you set sail along the scenic waterways of Supper Cove at the very head of Dusky Sound and find a suitable anchorage to enjoy your first evening aboard.
Visit Luncheon Cove on Anchor Island, where the first European boat was built in New Zealand. Take a short walk or explore along the coastline and be amazed by the birdlife with South Island saddleback, robins, yellowhead and parakeets in abundance on the island thanks to its predator-free status. It was on nearby Pigeon Island that pioneering conservationist Richard Henry was based during his time in Dusky Sound. At Astronomer’s Point there may be the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of Captain Cook and his astronomer William Wales, as it was here that the HMS Resolution was moored during their time in Dusky Sound. Your expedition cruise through Dusky Sound visits some of the most significant historical and conservation sites in New Zealand, as well as offering some of the most majestic scenery in New Zealand as you sail deep into the heart of Fiordland.
Today, explore your way through the waters of Breaksea Sound and Acheron Passage. Your time here may include venturing into Wet Jacket Arm where the crew of Cook’s HMS Resolution ended up with wet jackets during their survey work. It is also the site where moose were released, and last seen, in New Zealand. You might like to try your luck fishing for tonight’s dinner, or take the kayaks for a shoreline exploration. Resolution Island is separated from the mainland by the scenic waters of Acheron Passage and at the southern end of the passage you enter Dusky Sound. Be sure to be on the lookout for resident bottlenose dolphins.
After a quiet night surrounded by the nature and wilderness of Fiordland, sail along the Fiordland coast towards the extensive protected waters that are Breaksea and Doubtful Sounds, join your naturalists on deck to spot seabirds including the majestic wandering and buller’s albatross. Breaksea Island guards the entrance to Breaksea Sound, it was here that the first successful island rat eradication program was completed and today Breaksea Island is a protected nature reserve of great significance to the many endangered species which call the island home.
Continue your explorations of the most spectacular scenery in all of Fiordland—Doubtful Sound, or the ‘sound of silence’ as it’s also known. Spanning some staggering 25 miles (40km) and holding the title as New Zealand’s deepest fiord, Doubtful Sound with its cloud-scraping, wilderness-cloaked mountains, sheer stone cliffs, waterfalls, inlets, quiet coves and wildlife presents nature on a scale so grand it’s off the chart.
This morning, the ship sails along the scenic waterways of Doubtful Sound. It is the last opportunity for you to bask in the majesty of the fiords. After a final breakfast and farewells, head ashore at Deep Cove where a transfer to Te Anau awaits, via the Wilmot Pass and Lake Manapouri.
Included
Landing fees, pre-cruise helicopter transfer and post-cruise coach transfer, all onboard ship accommodation with meals, all shore excursions and activities, goods and service tax, house drinks, expert on board and naturalist guides, post-voyage photos.
Exclusions
All items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone and WiFi charges; premium drinks package ($90 per person in 2026 & 2027); domestic flights unless otherwise stated; Queenstown packages; extensions and travel insurance (or insurance of any kind).
Payment & Cancellation
In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 25% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
Up to 180 days – full refund except for $750 admin fee
179 to 91 days – 100% of deposit
90 to 0 days – 100% of total trip cost
Terms & Conditions
This trip is subject to AdventureSmith Explorations Terms and Conditions. Please read this information carefully and call us if you have any questions. A Traveler Information Form, which includes a release of liability, must be completed and signed by all travelers. Your Adventure Specialist will send you a unique link to complete this form along with a packing list and extensive pre-departure and travel insurance information upon booking confirmation.
Arrival & Departure
The northbound Fiordland Explored cruise embarks in Dusky Sound (following a helicopter transfer from Te Anau) and disembarks in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand (followed by a coach bus transfer back to Te Anau). The closest international airport is in Queenstown (ZQN). Plan flights to arrive to Queenstown in time to arrive at the meeting point on Day 1 (times and meeting point will be confirmed with your voyage documents). An accommodation and transfer package is available at added cost, inquire for details. Plan flights to depart Queenstown no earlier than 1:00pm on the final day. If you would like assistance with international flights, please visit our Booking Flights resource page.
Activities
Whether you are looking for light activity options or more challenging outdoor pursuits, the ship’s crew can tailor most excursions to suit your skill level. Adventure activities may include hiking, kayaking, inflatable boat/skiff excursions, land treks, wildlife observation (including spotting for birds), fishing and swimming.
Room Configuration
Select double-occupancy cabins may be available for single occupancy with a single supplement fee. Single travelers wishing to book a double-occupancy cabin may do so at 1.8x (cabins) or 2x (suites) the per-person listed rate in select cabins based upon availability.
Families & Children
Kids 13 years and older are welcomed aboard all departure dates; exceptions for children 12 years and under may be allowed with special pre-approval.
Travel Insurance
You must have proof of adequate insurance including full medical evacuation cover and coverage for activities including charter flights. Our partners at Travelex Insurance offer a variety of plans and policies to fit every trip and budget. For best value and coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, consider purchasing a policy at time of booking. Learn more about travel insurance or get a free quote.
Itinerary Notes
Use the itinerary as a guide only. Itineraries may be altered due to weather, wildlife, national park regulation or at the captain’s discretion. The ability to be flexible makes this type of small ship cruising unique.
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The Heritage Explorer expedition yacht is ready to reveal New Zealand's best-kept secrets and must-see places. Come aboard this 18-guest ship to explore some of the most remote and biologically rich regions with experienced guides. On board, enjoy comfortable spaces, sophisticated food and beverages, and warm camaraderie.
Heritage Explorer Review
AdventureSmith Explorations’ Heritage Explorer review includes a detailed description of the small ship including deck plans and a photo gallery. Please read our Heritage Explorer ship review below then contact our small ship cruise experts to compare the Heritage Explorer with other small cruise ships and yachts offering New Zealand small ship cruises, including private charter cruises.
Choose the Heritage Explorer for a ship purpose-built by Kiwis to cruise New Zealand. This spacious yacht offers room to stretch out, and the intimate group size to encourage newfound friendships. Her hydraulic aft ramp provides a stable, level means to get on and off the ship. And her optional, private al fresco dining is a great way to enjoy her elevated onboard cuisine and celebrated regional wines. Lastly, her two solo cabins offer the uncommon opportunity to travel without paying a solo supplement.
Design & Sustainability
Built in 2004 by renowned wooden boat building company Carey's Boatyard in Picton, New Zealand, the Heritage Explorer is purpose-built for small group expedition cruising among New Zealand's magical fjords. The design mirrors the ethos of operator Heritage Expeditions' conservation-minded approach to cruising, which they've been sharing with travelers since 1984. This yacht delivers both comfort and big adventure via her dual 653-horsepower engines, bow thrusters, fin stabilizers and sound-conscious twin generators.
Onboard Facilities
Heritage Explorer offers a balance of private spaces and engaging common areas, all on a spacious yacht for only 18 guests. WiFi and an in-room satellite phone are available at added cost, and shared binoculars are available upon request. Warm wood accents, wide staircases, colorful framed artwork, brimming bookshelves, coffee and tea stations, walls of windows, and plush seating and floors make this yacht feel like home. The Bridge invites guests to sit alongside the captain, or stand outside under cover and watch for wildlife.
The dining room offers panoramic views from every table, plus the capability to become a home theater. The lounge and bar provide a cozy setting to enjoy renowned New Zealand wines, beers and spirits. The food on board is top notch, prepared fresh daily by a passionate chef. Guests can expect dishes that showcase local produce and perhaps even your catch of the day. An added bonus of dining aboard Heritage Explorer is the option for private al fresco dining—or enjoy casual, open-seating meals with fellow guests.
Off-Ship Activities
Heritage Explorer puts a spotlight on daily off-ship excursions, assisted by two tender vessels, kayaks and a hydraulic aft ramp (ideal for entering and exiting the water with ease). The large, water-level swim step provides a platform for swimming right off the back of the ship. Special snorkeling and diving charters come equipped with gear for guests to enjoy the underwater world.
Travelers will get off the ship daily to explore beautiful beaches, historical places of interest, crystalline waters and dense forests. Expedition guides lead activities featuring wine, paddling, walking, hiking and swimming. Back on board, guests are free to enjoy relaxing in various inviting spaces, or fishing from the open deck.
Crew, Guides & Expedition Leaders
Knowledgeable expedition guides are ready to both lead guests into special wilderness areas, as well as explain the local conservation efforts and provide education around regional flora and fauna. Travelers can soak up insights from guides with backgrounds in botany, zoology, ecology, conservation, marine biology, history, photography and more, with regular lectures on board.
Cabins & Heritage Explorer Deck Plan
The 9 cabins and 1 suite on board, including 2 dedicated solo cabins, provide a flexible platform for guest groups of varying sizes and needs. Named after local varieties of albatross, cabins aim for comfort with full air-conditioning, ample storage via a wardrobe and drawers, a private ensuite bathroom with shower, TV and satellite telephone.
Learn About the Small Ship on Your Itinerary
Reviews From Our Experts so You Know What to Expect
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Expert Review: What It’s Like on a Fiordland National Park Cruise
Learn what to expect on an overnight Fiordland National Park cruise with AdventureSmith Explorations in New Zealand. One of our Adventure Specialists reports from the field, fjord, deck & paddleboard.
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