DOUBTFUL SOUND VS MILFORD SOUND
If you’ve ever contemplated an excursion to explore New Zealand’s renowned fiords, you might find yourself torn between Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. It really does depend on what you are after.
Milford Sound has a good number of tour groups going through it each day and is perhaps the better, more advertised of the Sounds whereas Doubtful Sound is far less populated and gets you more in touch with nature. It’s really a point of personal preference at the end of the day, however if you are looking to go to Doubtful Sound here’s a bit of an insight into what the journey would look for you if you were choosing to do a cruise.
Lake Manapouri: First your journey commences departing Manapouri (approximately 15 minutes drive from Te Anau) with a tranquil cruise across Lake Manapouri, where you will also get to see the Manapouri Power Station.
Wilmot Pass: You will then be transited by mini bus over Wilmot Pass which offers vistas so breathtaking, they could be a destination unto themselves.
Board Your Doubtful Sound Cruise: Whether it be a day or overnight cruise of Doubtful Sound be prepared to be blown away by the Fiordland vistas where you are truly immersed amongst the natural beauty that Doubtful Sound has to offer.
On-board you will typically see:-
- New Zealand Bottlenose Dolphins
- Fiordland Crested Penguins
- New Zealand Fur Seals
- Waterfalls
- Typical Fiordland Flora and Fauna and more!
It is advisable that you bring your camera as you will want to most certainly capture this kaleidoscope of natural splendors which warrants making Fiordland National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Other ways to explore Doubtful Sound are:
- Scenic Flights: Choose between helicopter, fixed-wing, or sea plane.
- Kayaking: Traverse the water whilst getting up-close-and-personal quite often, if you’re lucky, with the dolphins!
- Boat Cruises: Day and overnight Doubtful Sound Cruises are available.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- It can get cold – bring clothes that are warm and waterproof.
- Camera
- Sandfly spray
- Sun lotion
- Any medical supplies as it is remote – ie – seasick tablets, etc.
All-in-all Doubtful Sound will most certainly become a memory of a lifetime should you elect to do it. If it’s not on your bucket list – you may wish to add it to the list now!
Incidentally, Te Anau provides an excellent base for explorations to Doubtful Sound and luxury High Leys Lodge would pair nicely with a Doubtful Sound Cruise. If you wish to book it whilst staying there, your hosts, Sarah and John can facilitate this for you.
