FAQ's

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises

Q. Is Doubtful Sound better than Milford Sound?

A. According to the vast majority we have talked to who have seen both; it is a better option offering 10 times the area, is nowhere near as crowded with people/boats and there isn't anything in Milford that can't be seen in Doubtful as far as landscape/features and wildlife  go. But if you are on a limited money/time budget then Milford Sound is a great option.

Q. How long is the trip?

A. It depends on the time of year. From 1 Nov - 31 Mar you depart Manapouri at 0930 and arrive back at Manapouri by mid-day the next day. But in the winter you don't arrive back until 1730 (5.30pm) the next day. (a longer trip in the winter)

Q. Can I scuba dive?

A. This depends on many factors.

Diving in Fiordland can be dangerous and we don't supply all the gear. The best thing is to contact us direct, either by This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or telephone +64 3 249 9005 as we need to discuss this.

If you don't contact us you won't be able to dive!

Q. What do I need to bring?

A. A small overnight bag with a change of clothing for kayaking, insect repellent, clothing applicable to the season and any alcohol you may wish to imbibe.

Q. How many people are on the boat?

A. 3 crew plus up to 14 passengers. This is a small boat offering an intimate trip. Ideal for those who don't want to be with the masses.

Q. Are there waiters aboard?

A. We have a captain, deckhand and cook. Whilst we endeavour to serve you the best we can this is not a five star hotel, rather a wilderness experience with comforts. That's not to say we don't offer good service but if your looking for personal pampering, silver service or room service that is not what the trip is about.

Q. Do we need to bring any food?

A. Maybe, but only morning tea for the trip in to Doubtful. Lunch is not until around 1pm which can be a long time since breakfast.

The vast majority complain that we feed them too much in the meals and there is always a fruit bowel and cookie jar; but if you need to eat constantly I would recommend bringing some power bars to get you through the hour or so between snacks/meals.

Q. Do you provide foods for alternative diets?

A. Yes but we need to know about any food allergies/medical conditions before you arrive so we can cater to them.

Q. What about alcohol?

A. We do not sell alcohol on board though we do not scan your bags. Bring some if you wish to imbibe.

Q. How long do we fish for? scuba dive for? kayak for?

A. We offer fishing, kayaking and scuba diving in addition to a scenic cruise in an area 10 times the size of Milford. So to combine all of that you get a taste of each activity with about 30 - 45 minutes for each. (the winter trips offer more time for activities)

Q. Why are Doubtful Sound trips more expensive than Milford?

A. To list all the reasons would take too long but:

• The trip is much longer with more meals etc.
• There is more infrastructure to be maintained with ferries and buses to get you between Manapouri and Doubtful Sound.
• The road maintenance is paid for directly by the operators; so indirectly by you the traveler. (not by the government) And the cost of road maintenance is much higher because of the remoteness.
  
• There are more fees operators have to pay.
  
• The area is far more remote so operating costs are much higher in general.
• Fuel is more expensive.
• We pay another operator for the transfers between Manapouri and Doubtful so on average about 25% of your ticket price goes to that.