Australia & New Zealand Holidays is a subsidiary of the Travelcation Group
Set in the pristine wilderness of Fiordland National Park, the Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience New Zealand’s remote natural beauty. Departing from Lake Manapouri, guests are taken across to West Arm, before traveling over the scenic Wilmot Pass to reach Doubtful Sound. The journey provides an immersive escape into the heart of this stunning fiord, surrounded by lush rainforest, towering peaks, and an abundance of wildlife.
Onboard, passengers can choose from two vessels, the Fiordland Navigator or the Milford Wanderer, both designed for comfort and adventure. The vessels replicate traditional scows, but with modern amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Spacious cabins with ensuites or shared compartments provide a comfortable base, while the dining saloon offers delicious meals prepared by the onboard chef. Passengers can enjoy kayaking, or a guided boat trip to explore the fjord’s hidden coves. The onboard nature specialist shares insightful commentary on the surrounding environment, enhancing the experience.
This overnight cruise offers a serene and unforgettable escape from the everyday. As you drift through Doubtful Sound, witnessing waterfalls cascading down cliffs and the potential sightings of dolphins, seals, and penguins, you’ll feel a deep connection with nature. The journey culminates in a relaxing return trip, leaving you with lasting memories of one of the world’s most beautiful and secluded regions.
Operates from 1 September 2025 to May 11, 2026
Fiordland Navigator
The Fiordland Navigator is a purpose-built vessel replicating a traditional trading scow, offering a truly authentic cruising experience through the stunning fiords. With accommodation for up to 52 guests, it features private cabins with ensuites, twin or double configurations, and spacious shared viewing decks. A fully licensed bar and dining saloon provide a comfortable space to relax and enjoy delicious meals. The vessel also carries kayaks and small boats for exploring the sheltered shores of Doubtful Sound.
Milford Wanderer
The Milford Wanderer is a modern motorised vessel designed to navigate the fjords of southern New Zealand. It accommodates up to 36 passengers in warm, comfortable cabins with shared bathroom facilities. Guests can enjoy delicious plated meals prepared by the onboard chef, and relax in the spacious viewing decks, dining saloon, and observation lounge. Kayaks and small boats are available for excursions around the fiord’s coves and inlets, offering a closer look at the spectacular landscape.
Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.
Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.
Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to luxury 5-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative of similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.
Booking On Request
All packages are offered on request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.
Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.
Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.
Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).
Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 120 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 60 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.
Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.
If you’d rather chat, give one of our Travelcation Experts a call today to begin crafting your bespoke holiday experience.