Trip Planner: South Pacific / New Zealand / South Island / Southland Region / Fiordland National Park / Te Anau / Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound, Te Anau

4.7

#1 of 34 in Wildlife in Southland Region

Water Body · Wildlife Area

Explore the many twists and turns of Doubtful Sound, a large fjord where calm, dark blue water is flanked by green mountain peaks. The sound was named by Captain Cook in the 16th century because he was unsure if it was accessible by sailboat; today, access to this isolated area is restricted to boat cruises and bus trips. To get more out of your visit, consider an overnight cruise or kayaking in the sound. The unspoiled wilderness area supports rare marine life like bottlenose dolphins, penguins, fur seals, and sometimes whales. Using our custom trip planner, Te Anau attractions like Doubtful Sound can form part of a personalized travel itinerary.

Improve this listing »

Create an itinerary including Doubtful Sound

Tours to Doubtful Sound

FROM $328 BOOK WITH VIATOR Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

4.9

Duration: 2 days

Tours from $328 »

FROM $131 BOOK WITH VIATOR Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise from Manapouri

5.0

Duration: 8 hours

Tours from $131 »

FROM $189 BOOK WITH VIATOR Private Full-Day Tour in Doubtful Sound with Kayak Experience

5.0

Duration: 9 hours

Tours from $189 »

Doubtful Sound reviews

Rate this attraction

TripAdvisor traveler rating

2,285 reviews

By littlebigbear

Did a full day boat tour which was well worth it. I think this was a better option than a two hour Milford experience because you can see a lot on the drive in. more »
By thompsonmc2016

Well run boat trip here by Real Journeys. Worth the money and the free tea/coffee was nice especially as it got a bit cold on the way back. Take lots of warm jackets and sand-fly repellent. more »
By Susan N

We had amazing weather Amazing We saw seals, dolphins and a whale We went with real cruises 7:00am returned at 14:30 take your lunch with you more »

See more on TripAdvisor »

Plan your trip to Te Anau

Get a personalized trip

A complete day by day itinerary
based on your preferences
Customize it

Refine your trip. We'll find the
best routes and schedules
Book it

Choose from the best hotels
and activities. Up to 50% off
Manage it

Everything in one place.
Everyone on the same page.