Australia & New Zealand Holidays is a subsidiary of the Travelcation Group
The Northern Fiords Explorer Cruise offers a voyage through Fiordland’s most remote and pristine fjords. Aboard the Heritage Explorer, guests will experience the grandeur of Milford Sound, Bligh Sound, George Sound, and Doubtful Sound. These stunning landscapes, carved by glaciers, are home to unique wildlife, including Fiordland Crested Penguins, Bottlenose Dolphins, and New Zealand Fur Seals. As we explore the fjords, we’ll delve into the region’s rich history, with sites of early European exploration and significant conservation efforts. The voyage includes a combination of cruising, kayaking, and Zodiac excursions, offering unparalleled access to some of New Zealand’s most unspoiled wilderness. Guests will also enjoy expert commentary from naturalists, providing insights into the geology, history, and biodiversity of the area. The isolation of the Northern Fiords ensures that their beauty remains untouched, and this expedition provides a rare opportunity to experience them in their natural state. By the end of this incredible journey, guests will have witnessed the magic of Fiordland’s wild landscapes and gained a deeper appreciation for this natural wonder.
Begin your adventure in Te Anau with a scenic drive through Eglinton Valley to Milford Sound. After arriving at the port, board the Heritage Explorer and get settled into your cabin. The Captain and Expedition Leader will welcome you aboard as you sail into the spectacular Milford Sound. Enjoy the breathtaking views as you start your journey through the rugged landscape of Fiordland.
Overnight in Milford Sound.
Set sail into the wild waters of Bligh Sound, known for its ‘Z’ shape and the remote wilderness it offers. With the help of onboard naturalists, spot albatross and seabirds while cruising along the Fiordland coast. Explore Bounty Haven at the head of the fiord and learn about the region’s unique marine life, especially in the ‘China Shops,’ special zones where deep-sea life comes closer to the surface.
Overnight in Bligh Sound.
Cruise to the largest of the northern fiords, George Sound. Marvel at the spectacular Alice Falls, cascading from Lake Alice, and the dramatic scenery surrounding the fiord. Learn about the introduction of Wapiti/elk to New Zealand in 1905 and explore the diverse ecosystems in this remote area. With multiple arms to explore, you’ll enjoy both tranquil moments and breathtaking views in this stunning fiord.
Overnight in George Sound.
Explore the rarely-visited Caswell Sound, home to historical remains from the 1949 Fiordland scientific expedition. Visit the primitive hut on the banks of the Stillwater River, a remnant of the Wapiti/elk study. Enjoy a nature walk along the river towards Lake Marchant and try your luck fishing for tonight’s dinner. This peaceful and untouched location provides a serene escape surrounded by natural beauty.
Overnight in Caswell Sound.
Today, explore the southernmost northern fiords, including Nancy Sound with its unique leg-shaped structure, and nearby Charles Sound. Visit Gold Arm in Charles Sound, which is home to one of the most extensive marine reserves in Fiordland. The sheltered waters provide a perfect setting for kayaking and coastal exploration by Zodiac. Spot marine life and enjoy the remote tranquillity of these rarely visited fiords.
Overnight in Charles and Nancy Sounds.
Navigate to Thompson Sound, home to the conservation success of Secretary Island, which was declared rat-free in 1988. Continue to Doubtful Sound, New Zealand’s deepest fiord, with its towering mountains, waterfalls, and vast wilderness. Cruise through Blanket Bay, Pandora River, and Deas Cove, capturing the grandeur of the landscape. Enjoy a farewell dinner aboard the Heritage Explorer as you reflect on your journey.
Overnight in Doubtful Sound.
Sail to the head of Doubtful Sound, where you can enjoy views of Helena and Lady Alice Falls. After breakfast, disembark and enjoy a scenic transfer to Te Anau via the picturesque Wilmot Pass. Please note that if there are any delays, it is recommended not to book onward travel from Te Anau until after 3 pm to allow for any unforeseen circumstances.
End of the cruise in Te Anau.
Heritage Explorer is a purpose-built expedition yacht offering an intimate and personalised way to experience New Zealand’s remote coastline, islands, and waterways. Carrying just 18 guests, this New Zealand-built vessel is designed for exploring hard-to-reach places where larger ships cannot go, creating a relaxed and immersive atmosphere ideal for curious and nature-loving travellers.
Crafted by respected naval architect Carey Clough, Heritage Explorer features four decks with ample outdoor viewing space, a welcoming dining saloon, and a cosy lounge for unwinding between excursions. With an open bridge policy, guests are invited to engage with the crew and feel part of the journey. Whether navigating the deep sounds of Fiordland or the sheltered bays of Marlborough, the ship feels both capable and comfortable.
Accommodation
Heritage Explorer offers four categories of en suite cabins, all with outward-facing views and a simple, classic design. Rooms are comfortably appointed with windows or portholes, warm bedding, and a compact private bathroom. While not overly luxurious, the accommodation is clean, quiet, and perfectly suited for an expedition-style journey. The ship’s small size creates a peaceful onboard setting where guests can easily retreat to their cabins or relax in one of the shared spaces to read, chat, or take in the scenery.
Food and Dining
Dining is casual, nourishing, and thoughtfully prepared by the onboard chef. Meals showcase local flavours and ingredients, often inspired by the regions visited along the way. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served communally in the dining area, creating a warm and social atmosphere. Snacks, tea, and coffee are always available, and dietary needs can be catered for with notice.
The Experience
Heritage Explorer is ideal for those who value connection with nature, genuine hospitality, and small group travel. It’s a perfect match for travellers who want to experience Aotearoa’s hidden corners with minimal fuss and maximum depth. Each journey feels more like a shared adventure than a cruise, with the ever-changing landscapes always just outside your window.
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 caurrencies, 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 130 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 120 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.