Doubtful Sound Cruises

Doubtful Sound: The ‘Sound of Silence’

Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park in New Zealand, Doubtful Sound—sometimes referred to as the ‘Sound of Silence‘ after its Maori name, Patea, meaning “the place of silence”—is the deepest fiord in the region. It’s no surprise that this breathtaking destination has been voted the second most popular tourist spot in the country, just behind the nearby Milford Sound.

The Best Time to Cruise to Doubtful Sound

Doubtful Sound is a spectacular destination year-round, offering stunning views whether under the sun or in the midst of rain and storms.

Like its neighboring fiords, Doubtful Sound receives a fair amount of rain, so be sure to pack your raincoat and umbrella. That said, the best seasons to plan your Fiordland cruise are generally summer and autumn, when you can enjoy:

• Pleasant daytime temperatures
• Longer daylight hours

Things to Do in Doubtful Sound

The serene natural beauty of Doubtful Sound draws thousands of visitors each year. Here are some of the highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Marvel at the Waterfalls: Witness the grandeur of the fiord’s many waterfalls, including Browne Falls, which plunges 619 meters, and Helena Falls, cascading 220 meters.
• Spot Wildlife: Keep an eye out for incredible wildlife, such as bottlenose dolphins, fur seals, and penguins.
• Kayak Tours: Explore the tranquil waters of the fiord on a guided kayak tour.
• Visit Deep Cove: Discover Deep Cove and its outdoor education center, a perfect spot for learning and exploration.

Top Cruise Lines

Unlike Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound isn’t as frequently visited, due to the fact that its harder to get to. So below are the cruise lines, whose ships do manage to cruise to the remote fiord:

• Celebrity cruises to Doubtful Sound
• Norwegian cruises to Doubtful Sound
• Ponant cruises to Doubtful Sound
• Silversea cruises to Doubtful Sound