Top Fiordland Tours: Unforgettable National Park Cruises & Sightseeing
So, you want to visit Fiordland National Park in New Zealand? It’s just a knockout spot! Figuring out which tour, sightseeing trip, or cruise is just the right one can, in a way, feel like a lot. That said, this is why I’ve compiled a list of, like, the top five ways you can experience the stunning beauty of Fiordland. Whether you’re after scenic cruises or adventures, there’s something, you know, here for pretty much everyone. Just a little heads up, I’ve kept in mind folks looking for information and haven’t assumed anything about what you might already know.
1. Milford Sound Scenic Cruises
You could say, these scenic cruises in Milford Sound are just a must-do, really. That is because you get up close and personal with that famous fiord. Gliding across the dark waters with those massive cliffs looming over you, well, it’s just an unreal experience. Sometimes you can even spot dolphins playing or seals basking on the rocks! It’s almost magical. Most cruises will, in fact, get right near waterfalls, offering really cool photo opportunities and, that is to say, a bit of a shower if you’re standing on the deck!
There is just a wide variety of cruises. Several providers offer those longer, more relaxing tours, along with speedier options for individuals with only a bit of time. Whichever one you decide on, this cruise will without a doubt show you the sheer wonder of Milford Sound. What with the majestic waterfalls, like Stirling Falls, there for the perfect photo.
There tends to be a common theme to onboard amenities as it appears that many have big viewing decks, cozy lounges, and you will also hear some interesting commentary regarding the sound’s geological characteristics, animal populations, and the fascinating stories of the Maori people, too it’s almost as if you were listening to the sound speak. Some cruises may offer an included lunch or beverages, so, really it is well worth it to do a check when planning your vacation.
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2. Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruises
You should give Doubtful Sound some consideration if you’d just love to get a little off the beaten path! Bigger than Milford, it is a pretty peaceful and remote location. I mean, like, reaching Doubtful Sound usually includes a boat trip across Lake Manapouri plus a bus ride across Wilmot Pass, and, I am saying, that extra leg just keeps most of the crowds at bay! What you receive then is a truly pristine environment, one in which you can lose yourself.
With cruises, you are presented with a selection of day-long options and over-night stays, which will let you really immerse yourself into the wild. See as waterfalls cascade down and hear the amazing birdsong that fills the air, also be on the lookout for the elusive bottlenose dolphins and fur seals, you could just see a Fiordland crested penguin if you’re particularly fortunate!
What with the cruises sometimes having kayaking trips and guided hikes, so, really you can get pretty active, and if all of that’s not for you, sit back, chill, and let those views knock you out.
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3. Fiordland Helicopter Tours
A helicopter tour? A very special kind of thing! Picture yourself soaring over the very, very top of mountains, along with going way deep into those isolated parts of Fiordland, ones that your average traveler never sees. If that gets you going then that’s your bag. This bird’s eye view grants you the sheer scale and rough grandeur of this place in a very, very real way.
You know, you’ll find most trips are different; most, as a matter of fact, offer things like alpine landings in which you’ll get to step out plus appreciate all of that crisp mountain air along with incredible photo opportunities! What with seeing Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and the even distant Dusky Sound you should think over that longer trip!
That said, if time is tight there are a bunch of short scenic flights that will leave you thrilled too! Clearly, while helicopter tours have that price tag to match those unparalleled views, really they’re really suited to travelers seeking that exceptional experience that you just will not see anywhere else!
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4. Hiking and Trekking Tours
And that means pounding that dirt with your boots. And if that’s you, the most effective way to be engulfed by Fiordland’s raw magnificence would actually involve your two feet plus an experienced guide. This location will attract hikers by having trails that range from a casual day walk up to several-day treks like the renowned Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and Kepler Track.
There is plenty to see along the trails, really. Waterfalls, old growth forests, and breathtaking panoramic views. A guide can add so much to any trek given that their insights on the plants, animals, as well as the area’s history just make a hike all that more unique.
Is that you prefer a difficult mountain hike or a laid back walk next to the lake, really hiking gives a closer link with Fiordland that, seemingly, a car ride or just about any boat can ever give!
Read our full review: Hiking and Trekking Tours Fiordland Full Review and Details
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5. Kayaking Tours in Fiordland
Alright, so for those keen on experiencing the serene beauty of Fiordland at their own speed, I am saying, a kayaking tour should be on your list. Glide along those tranquil waters in places like Milford or Doubtful Sound and, that is to say, get the benefit of being pretty close up to steep rock faces, hidden coves and impressive waterfalls. As a matter of fact, there aren’t any other choices that truly immerse someone into this amazing spot than going about it at water level, nearly at one with that surrounding area.
It has been noted that tour providers sometimes offer both half-day and day trips, but overnight tours are usually arranged too, and will offer different levels of skill. Almost, beginner kayakers might enjoy just a guided tour inside calmer areas, more like Deep Cove inside Doubtful Sound. And it would seem, that experienced folks might prefer an open water paddling journey. Be on the lookout, it could possibly get challenging!
Now this is pretty neat too, in several instances you’ll actually see wildlife from a far closer vantage point. That means maybe encountering dolphins, seals, plus those penguins while paddling which simply elevates the whole deal.
Read our full review: Kayaking Tours in Fiordland Full Review and Details
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