9 Night Fiordland Grand Tour

Your journey begins in Te Anau this morning, where you’ll travel by comfortable scenic vehicle transfer toward Milford Sound / Piopiotahi. Along the way, there will be opportunities to pause for photographs and soak in the dramatic alpine scenery.

On arrival in the afternoon, you’ll step aboard the Fiordland Jewel. (Secure vehicle parking is available at the helicopter base in Te Anau.)

After a warm welcome from the crew and time to settle into your cabin, unwind as the vessel begins exploring this remarkable glacial valley. Stretching 16 kilometres to the Tasman Sea, the fiord is framed by towering cliffs and dramatic peaks. Keep watch for the region’s spectacular waterfalls — especially impressive after rainfall — cascading from extraordinary heights.

Highlights of your cruise include passing Bowen Falls, Sinbad Gully, the iconic Mitre Peak, Mt Pembroke, Bridal Veil Falls and Fairy Falls. The journey continues along the northern shoreline past Dale Point, the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, Seal Rock, Stirling Falls, The Lion and the Cascade Range. This evening, the vessel anchors at Deepwater Basin for an overnight stay surrounded by pristine wilderness.

Weather conditions will guide the route over the coming days. When suitable, the cruise ventures along the rugged coastline to explore Bligh, George, Caswell and Thompson Sounds before entering Doubtful Sound, where tranquil waterways wind through vast, untouched landscapes.

Again guided by conditions, the journey may continue further south to Dusky Sound. Here, you’ll navigate among sheltered coves, forested islands and narrow passages, visiting sites of historical importance including Luncheon Cove, Anchor Point, Pigeon Island and Resolution Island.

From Dusky Sound, the expedition may extend to Chalky and Preservation Inlets. In these remote waterways, admire dramatic natural formations such as Cascade Basin, where a powerful waterfall pours into Long Sound. There may be opportunities to step ashore for a beach walk, explore heritage sites, or even visit Puysegur Point Lighthouse, one of New Zealand’s most isolated lighthouses.

Activities throughout the voyage may include:

• Wildlife spotting — watch for bottlenose dolphins and New Zealand fur seals, with the possibility of whale sightings
• Birdlife encounters, including the rare Fiordland crested penguin, New Zealand falcons, white-faced herons, cattle egrets, shags, black-backed gulls, and various albatross species, including the majestic Royal Albatross
• Guided short walks in Dusky Sound, Chalky and Preservation Inlets
• Optional fishing to catch fresh local seafood
• Kayaking adventures and tender excursions
• Stargazing beneath remarkably clear southern skies — best enjoyed from the top deck, or perhaps even from the hot tub on a calm evening

Enjoy sunrise over a relaxed continental breakfast as you await your helicopter transfer. Later this morning, you’ll board for a scenic flight back to Te Anau, offering one final aerial perspective of Fiordland’s breathtaking landscapes.