Cruise for A Cause – Doubtful Sound Cruise Information

This information is in regards to the Cruise for a Cause, departing Saturday 9th September 2023. Limited tickets are available which you can buy here.

Trip information

CRUISE FOR A CAUSE
Southland Charity Hospital and Real NZ
Saturday 9^th & Sunday 10^th September 2023

Doubtful Sound is unspoiled, unmatched and unforgettable. So get ready to create some lifelong memories as the we take you on the ultimate Doubtful Sound experience.

Your itinerary starts in Manapouri with a short cruise across Lake Manapouri. A coach then takes you across Wilmot Pass, travelling on a sub-alpine road through dense rainforest. Arriving at Deep Cove, you’ll be met by our crew and the majestic Navigator vessel.

Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, the Fiordland Navigator blends old world charm with modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, a dining saloon with a fully licensed bar and an observation lounge.

As you cruise through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, our knowledgeable nature guides will provide commentary ensuring you miss nothing, be it the pod of resident dolphins, fur seals or rare penguins you might encounter.

After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, you can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat – or to simply relax onboard. For the adventurous (or very brave), there’s even a chance to go swimming. All activities are weather dependent. 

In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious three-course buffet dinner prepared by our onboard chef, served in the dining saloon. Mingle with fellow travellers, savour some of the fine wines at our licensed bar and if the skies are clear in the evening, spend some time on the upper deck gazing at the stars.

Kick off the next day with a hearty cooked breakfast and get ready to enjoy the rest of the morning exploring other parts of the fiord. Finally, you’ll return to Deep Cove, the trip back to Manapouri and many, many conversations telling friends just how amazing your trip was.

Things you should know:

• Duration is 1 night

• Accommodation:

o Private cabins – twin, double or single occupancy with ensuite bathrooms (single passengers must pay sole occupancy rate)

o Family quad share cabins – bunk-style compartments with shared bathrooms

• Enjoy a hearty dinner including a buffet of salads and hot dishes and a selection of desserts and cheeses (vegetarian options available)

• There is a licensed bar on board. 

• Includes kayaking and tender craft (small boat) activities

• You’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast on-board

Extra information

• Duvets, sheets and towels provided

• Complimentary tea and coffee is available

• Suitable for all ages, with the exception of infants in quad share

• Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility

• Waiau St Café, below the Manapouri Visitors Centre, opens from 9am – 1.00pm. Menu offers a range of homemade food & Allpress Coffee for you to enjoy pre cruise or take with you

Departure Times

The trip leaves Pearl Harbour, Manapouri at 12.30pm and returns 2:15pm the following day. 

You are required to check-in at the RealNZ Visitor Centre 30min before your departure time.

Getting there

All our Doubtful Sound experiences start in Manapouri which is around 2.5 – 3 hours from Queenstown and 30 minutes from Te Anau. Our Manapouri Visitor Centre is located at 64 Waiau Street.

Free parking is available in Manapouri.

What to bring

Only one carry-on bag is recommended for passenger convenience and for safety reasons.  Don’t forget the following:

• Non-slip walking shoes/boots

• Waterproof jacket*

• Warm sweater/fleece jacket

• Change of clothes*

• Sunscreen/sunglasses

• Insect repellent*

• Swimwear (optional)

• Camera

• Cash for bar and snacks

• Lunch and snacks for the first day

• Personal medication including for asthma and allergies

*Essential items if you are doing activities. Activities take place even if it is raining.

Rooms Available:

• 18 Double/Twin Rooms with Ensuite (Sleeps 2)

• 8 Bunk Rooms with Shared Facilities (Sleeps 4)

Tickets are limited, buy yours now!