fiordland cruise ship schedule

Fjordland National Park, New Zealand

Fjordland National Park Cruise Ship Schedule

Visit Fiordland

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Weather & Seasons

Driving in Fiordland

Boat cruises, guided walks, accommodation.

Piopiotahi Milford Sound cruises, Patea Doubtful Sound cruises and stunning lake cruises. With expert commentary and various options from short, overnight or multi-day cruises, a boat trip is the easiest way to see more of Fiordland.

Southern Discoveries - Discover More Cruise

Our three hour cruise & underwater observatory experience is the longest and most personal in Milford Sound. On our Discover More Cruise, you won’t ju...

• Web southerndiscoveries.co.nz/milford-sound/cruises/discover-more-cruise

Southern Secret Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise

Book your double or twin ensuite cabin today. Includes: transport to/from Te Anau, lunch, evening meal and snacks, private cabin onboard MV Southern S...

• Web doubtfulsound.com

Fiordland Discovery - Fiordland Jewel

Explore the spectacular remote wilderness of Fiordland National Park, up-close-and-personal. 

• Web fiordlanddiscovery.co.nz

Milford Sound Day Cruises – RealNZ

Get closer to nature with RealNZ. Discover unparalleled landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and inquisitive wildlife on a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise. I...

• Web realnz.com/en/experiences/cruises/milford-sound-cruises

Cruise Te Anau

Is open and operating a 1pm 'Discovery Cruise' everyday!!! Join Cruise Te Anau for a boutique 3 hour Discovery Cruise to the beautiful & tranquil Sou...

• Web cruiseteanau.co.nz

Doubtful Sound Cruises - RealNZ

Unchanged, untouched and absolutely unforgettable. Experience the wilderness and wildlife of Doubtful Sound on a RealNZ day or overnight cruise.

• Web realnz.com/en/experiences/cruises/doubtful-sound-wilderness-cruises

Fiordland Historic Cruises

Cruise on board Faith. There’s no other boat like her in New Zealand & no better way to experience the tranquillity of this famous World Heritage Area...

• Web fiordlandhistoriccruises.co.nz

Pure Milford

Pure Milford takes you deep into the untouched wilderness of Fiordland National Park to find your wild place.

• Web puremilford.co.nz

Multi-day Charter Adventure with Pure Salt

Join us on a multi-day adventure through the remote and untouched wilderness areas of Southern Fiordland; following the natural rhythm of sun and tide...

• Web puresalt.co.nz

Milford Sound Overnight Cruises

Relax and enjoy nature with a visit to the world’s “eighth wonder” and spend the night aboard the iconic Milford Mariner. Wake up at dawn in one of th...

• Web realnz.com/en/experiences/cruises/milford-sound-overnight-cruises

Fiordland Discovery - Milford Sound Overnight Cruise

There is no better way to soak up the majesty of Milford Sound than aboard the Fiordland Jewel. Our purpose-built catamaran is designed to take in thi...

Southern Discoveries Milford Sound Coach & Discover More Cruise

Join us for the most in-depth and authentic Milford Sound day trip experience. The only day trip from Te Anau to include a visit to the Milford Sound ...

• Web southerndiscoveries.co.nz

Southern Discoveries – Milford Sound Nature Cruise

Locally owned and operated, explore the 8th wonder of the world with the original Red Boats on our Milford Sound Nature Cruise. Feel the full force of...

• Web southerndiscoveries.co.nz/milford-sound/cruises/nature-cruise

Mitre Peak Cruises

Discover the beauty of Milford Sound with Mitre Peak Cruises. Leading the way in personalised and uncrowded cruising, we offer a cruise with a differe...

• Web mitrepeak.com

Heritage Expeditions

Pioneers in multiday cruises, to spectacular & remote Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound & Preservation inlet as well as Milford Sound and many more. Join us...

• Web heritage-expeditions.com/destinations/new-zealand-cruises

Milford Sound Cruises - RealNZ

Discover the spectacular beauty of Piopiotahi Milford Sound on a day cruise, overnight cruise, coach tour or scenic flight with RealNZ.

• Web realnz.com/en/destinations/milford-sound

Wild Fiordland

Fiordland is one of the few remaining corners of the world where one can truly disconnect from the stresses of modern life and reconnect with what’s i...

• Web wildfiordland.co.nz

Milford Sound Day Cruise from Te Anau - RealNZ

Take a spectacular journey into Piopiotahi Milford Sound by a luxury coach and explore colossal landscapes and cascading waterfalls on a 2-hour cruise...

Cruise Milford NZ

We have cruises running daily, come and visit Milford Sound after a snow fall....there is no better time to visit! The mountains look spectacular! Ch...

• Web cruisemilfordnz.com

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises

Unchanged, untouched, and unforgettable. Explore the remote wilderness of Pātea Doubtful Sound on a RealNZ Overnight Cruise.

• Web realnz.com/en/experiences/cruises/doubtful-sound-overnight-cruises

Discovery Expeditions – RealNZ

Embark on a multi-day voyage of discovery through some of the most isolated and beautiful regions in New Zealand.

• Web realnz.com/en/experiences/expeditions

Dive Milford Sound with Descend Diving

We are running daily trips from 1st of November to 30th April

• Web descend.co.nz

Doubtful Sound Overnight - Fiordland Expeditions

With a friendly crew to welcome you and a glass of bubbly in hand, the mood is set and you're on your way. Doubtful Sound offers world class scenery w...

• Web fiordlandexpeditions.co.nz

Adventure Cruises, Lake Manapouri

Lake Manapouri - scenic cruises with a minimum cruise time of 1.5 hours catering for 1-10 people.  Many options available.

• Web kayaksandcruises.co.nz

• 0800 862 334
• [email protected]

• Fiordland Cruises

"We felt we were dealing with a company that really cared about its customers."

"Fishing while the snow fell, and catching a few. The walks and the massive mountains are memories that we will treasure for a long time."

"The crew's knowledge of the history and the surrounding area helped us appreciate the life that the early settlers must have had."

"Seeing a humpback whale was for the first time was definitely a bonus."

Fiordland Cruises – June to August

2024 / 2025 Dates

• 5 Nights Coastal Cruise Cruise from Preservation Inlet to Doubtful Sound on the coast
• 6 Nights Scenic Cruise Cruise and discover Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds
• 10 Nights Southern Discovery Cruise Cruise 5 southern fiords – Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds plus Chalky and Preservation Inlets
• 2-10 Nights Exclusive Cruises  

Prices are in New Zealand Dollars (NZD), and include:

• Daily continental breakfast, lunch, dinner, morning and afternoon teas, and sunset nibbles.
• All linen – including duvets and towels.
• Relaxing accommodations
• Port stops and shore excursions
• Friendly and attentive staff

Save $500pp on a Discovery Expedition Cruise

Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises

Give in to the wilderness, and escape to the secluded Pātea Doubtful Sound, located in the depths of the Fiordland National Park. Unlike a day cruise, this unique overnight experience completely immerses you in nature. Wake up feeling connected, in harmony, and full of wonder for Aotearoa’s native flora and fauna.  

The trip begins on the shore of Lake Manapouri, where you’ll hop onto a vessel to cross over to West Arm. Here, you’ll board our RealNZ coach to cross the scenic Wilmot Pass, before arriving at Doubtful Sound, and your home for the night.  

What's included? 

• Choose to escape for one or two nights aboard one of our traditional-styled vessels.  
• Explore the nooks and coves of Doubtful Sound all the way out to the Tasman Sea.  
• Choose the onboard accommodation that suits you, from private ensuite cabins to family-share, bunk-style cabins with shared bathrooms. Our two differing vessels offer slightly different accommodation offerings. S ee what’s on offer on each vessel .  
• Our onboard chef will feed you well. Freshly baked afternoon tea, local platters, a gourmet buffet dinner and a selection of hot and continental breakfasts will be served.  
• Understand what you’re experiencing with our onboard nature specialist. They’ll tell you about the land, local flora and the resident fauna who may come out to say hello.  
• Be the captain of your own boat! Choose to explore a sheltered shoreline by kayak or hop into our small boat with a nature guide.  
• Leave the driving to us, and explore our coach connections, available from Queenstown and Te Anau.  

Choose between our signature one night stay, or stay longer on the two-night cruise.

You will not go hungry! Enjoy a delicious dinner and cooked breakfast prepared by your on-board chef.

Choose to explore the Fiord by kayak or tender craft (weather dependant).

Learn about the history and natural beauty of Patea Doubtful Sound from your local specialist guide.

Transport Options

• Milford Sound
• Te Anau Downs

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More Information

Doubtful Sound is pristine, unforgettable and out of this world. So get ready to create some lifelong memories as we take you on the ultimate Doubtful Sound experience.  

Your itinerary starts with a 45min-1hr cruise across Lake Manapouri, where you’ll hop off at the west arm. A coach then takes you across the Wilmot Pass, where you’ll travel on a sub-alpine road through dense rainforest. Arriving at Deep Cove, you’ll be met by our crew and vessel.  

Designed along the lines of a traditional scow, our vessels, The Fiordland Navigator and The Wanderer , blend old-world charm with modern comforts that include spacious viewing decks, dining saloons with fully licensed bars, and observation lounges.  

As you cruise through some of New Zealand’s most stunning scenery, our knowledgeable nature guides will provide commentary ensuring you don’t miss a thing, whether you’re encountering a pod of resident dolphins, fur seals or rare penguins.   

After dropping anchor in a sheltered cove, you can choose to explore the shoreline by kayak or tender boat, or simply relax onboard. For those looking to refresh, there’s even a chance to go swimming. All activities are weather-dependent.   

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

Kick off the next day with a hearty cooked breakfast or a nourishing continental selection and get ready to explore the other arms of the fiord. Before long, you’ll return to Deep Cove, and take the trip back to Manapouri where you’ll tell the story of your experience in the remote wilderness of New Zealand.  

Things you should know: 

• Duration is one or two nights.  
• The two-night overnight cruise is available exclusively in the winter months: May, August, and September.  
• Private cabins - twin, double or single occupancy with ensuite bathrooms (single passengers must pay sole occupancy rate)  
• Quad share cabins - bunk-style compartments fit for four occupants with a curtained divider separating the room from shared areas, with communal bathrooms.
• Twin sleeping compartments with communal bathrooms. 
• Enjoy a hearty dinner including soups, a buffet of salads and hot dishes, as well as a selection of desserts and cheeses (dietary requirements can be catered for and should be noted at the time of booking).  
• On the two-night trip, lunch is included on the second day.  
• 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 teas and coffee are available throughout.  
• Suitable for all ages, except for infants intending to stay in a quad-share cabin  
• Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.  
• Snacks and drinks are available for purchase with both eftpos or cash  
• Waiau St Café, below the Manapouri Visitors Centre, opens from 9am - 1.00pm. The menu offers a range of homemade food and Allpress Coffee to enjoy before the experience or to take with you  

Departure Times  

The trip leaves Pearl Harbour, Manapouri at 12.30pm and returns 12pm the following day.   

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

Getting there  

All our Doubtful Sound experiences start in Manapouri which is around 2.5 – 3 hrs from Queenstown and 30 mins 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 safety.  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)  
• 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.  

Fiordland Navigator

About the Fiordland Navigator

The Fiordland Navigator is a purpose-built vessel designed to replicate a traditional trading scow and is perfectly suited to cruising the fiords.

• Private cabins with ensuites (twin or double bed configuration)
• Quad share bunk-style compartments with shared bathroom facilities and a curtained divider providing privacy from communal areas
• Spacious viewing decks, dining saloon, licensed bar and observation lounge
• Delicious buffet dinner served up by our onboard chef
• Carries kayaks and tender craft onboard

The Wanderer

About the Wanderer

Our vessel, the Milford Wanderer, is a modern motorised vessel that has been purpose-built for navigating southern New Zealand.

• Warm, comfortable accommodation (two passengers per sleeping compartment)  
• Duvets, sheets and towels provided
• Modern shared bathroom facilities with hot showers 
• Delicious plated meals prepared by onboard chef  

Absolutely amazing trip. The scenery, the staff, the catering - everything was just first class. Real NZ are extremely professional and well organised - everyone of their staff we met was professional, friendly and very knowledgeable. Truly an experience we won’t forget Tony P, Via TripAdvisor

The Real NZ overnight tour on Doubtful Sound we took last week was outstanding. A magical place. And the crew was first-rate and very friendly and helpful. Stuart B, Via TripAdvisor

This was such a wonderful experience from start to finish so, if you get a chance to do it, we would thoroughly recommend it. We were also so impressed with RealNZ. The trip organisation worked like clockwork and every one of the staff we met, from drivers to the crew, were great. Thanks especially to our principal driver, Paulie (it isn’t really fair to single any one person out but he was just so nice and helpful). As for the cruise, the environment speaks for itself and is magical but the transfers, ship, fabulous food (lots of it) and comfortable cabins helped make this an unforgettable trip during our trip to NZ. Gillrj, Via TripAdvisor

We did a two night cruise on Doubtful Sound which was amazing. The food, staff, services were first class, and our cabin was just as fabulous as a hotel room. Beautiful crisp linen; fabulous shower and perfectly comfortable. I can't recommend this cruise highly enough, and everyone on board just loved their time on the water. The photographic opportunities were fantastic. This is an experience not to be missed. Blincs, Via TripAdvisor

We had gorgeous weather the entire cruise. We had magnificent views and sunsets on both evenings. Other travelers took kayaks out or went for a ride on smaller boats on Saturday. We stayed on board to relax, as we were recovering from hiking the Milford Track just prior to the cruise. Food was excellent, and we enjoyed the people we met on the cruise. We saw the pod of dolphins that lives in the Sound, and some seals. We enjoyed the educational talks in the after-dinner talks by the naturalist on board. We loved our room, it was very comfortable. Highly recommend!! T R, Via TripAdvisor

This was such a well organised, professionally run experience. All the staff were well trained, worked as a team, were friendly and so knowledgeable. The whole operation with all the transfers ran like clockwork. The accommodation was comfortable (we had a double ensuite cabin). Food and communal areas very good. The onboard naturalist kept up the commentary all the time we were sailing, making it so interesting. Scenery was stunning - would recommend this to anyone. Sue F, Via Trip Advisor

In case you haven't found the information you were looking for, we've put together some of the most common questions our customers ask about our trips. If you need more specific answers, please contact us directly.

How long does it take to travel to Manapouri?

From Queenstown to Manapouri by car or coach takes around 2 hrs 45 mins and from Te Anau around 30 minutes.  For more information refer to our Driving Times webpage.

Is there car parking at Manapouri?

Yes, we have plenty of free parking at Manapouri. Daytime car parking is provided adjacent to the Visitor Centre. Overnight car parking is a available on View St, a short 2 minute walk from our Manapouri Visitor Centre.

Are linen and towels provided on the Milford and Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises?

Yes, bedding and towels are provided to all guests.  

What is the difference between a double room and a twin room?

A double room is a private room for two people, with one bed to share. A twin room is a private room for two people, with two single beds.

Overnight Cruises and Quadshare - We are a group of three people and would like to book a shared quad-share room. Will this mean we would be sharing with another person?

Yes, you could potentially be sharing with another guest. Alternatively you could choose to pay for the entire quad cabin, or two double cabins, to ensure privacy.  If you wish to pay for an entire quad cabin, please contact us directly.

Note: quad-share cabins are mixed gender.

What is the difference between Milford and Doubtful Sounds?

Our places. Our experiences. Milford and Doubtful Sounds, NZ.

Milford Sound at the mountainous north end of Fiordland National Park is the classic fiord - a deep water inlet between steep sided high mountains.  Milford Sound is a middle-sized fiord at around 13 kms in length and it is famous for its dramatic scenery, especially Mitre Peak.  This fiord is the most accessible of Fiordland National Park’s 14 fiords and it can be reached by bus, car or flight connections from Queenstown.

Doubtful Sound is located in the heart of Fiordland National Park where the mountains are still very impressive but not as high as Milford Sound.  Doubtful Sound is three times longer and  has a sea surface area roughly ten times larger than Milford Sound.  Its three arms are Hall, Crooked and First Arm.  It is famous for its wilderness scenery and wildlife sightings.  To get to Doubtful Sound visitors first take a launch trip across Lake Manapouri and drive over Wilmot Pass.

Visitors with enough time choose to visit both fiords as they have different characters.

What weather can I expect in Fiordland?

Fiordland’s weather is what gives the region its unique character. Rainfall is what makes Fiordland a land of lakes, rivers, streams, waterfalls and fiords. Visitors should always be prepared to enjoy some rainfall during their stay. It is recommended to bring sensible clothing for cool and wet weather to fully appreciate your stay.

The temperatures you can expect in the different seasons are as follows: 

• Summer  (December-February) 19-23 Celsius / 66 - 73 Fahrenheit 
• Autumn  (March-May) 8-18 Celsius / 46  - 64 Fahrenheit
• Winter  (June-August) 5-9 Celsius /  41  - 48 Fahrenheit
• Spring  (September-November) 10-19 Celsius  / 50   - 66 Fahrenheit

Is it worth going to Milford/Doubtful Sounds on a wet day?

Many say you have not seen Fiordland unless you have seen it in the rain.  When it rains in Fiordland the landscape is dramatic - rock faces stream with waterfalls, mist hangs around the tops of the mountains and rivers and streams rage.  From a dry comfortable vantage point on the bus or boat, this landscape is spectacular for sightseeing.

How much luggage can I take on my overnight cruise?

We recommend each passenger brings no more than a carry-on sized bag due to space restrictions in the cabins. For a list of what to bring please see the 'more info' section or your booking confirmation.

While we cannot guarantee you will see wildlife, sightings of fur seals are reasonably common in both Doubtful and Milford Sounds.  A pod of bottlenose dolphins resides in Doubtful Sound so you have a good chance of seeing these fascinating mammals, and in Milford Sound dolphins are occasional visitors.  In both sounds the rare Fiordland crested penguin can at times be observed.

Throughout Fiordland the fiords are officially mapped as sounds.  Strictly speaking, they should be called fiords.

A fiord is a glaciated valley - typically narrow and steep-sided - that has been flooded by the sea after the glacier’s retreat.  A sound, on the other hand, is a river valley flooded by the sea following a rise in sea levels or depression of the land, or a combination of both.

Is the Manapouri Underground Power Station accessible?

The Manapouri Underground Power Station visit is CLOSED indefinitely due to maintenance by operators Meridian Energy. We are not permitted to access the Power Station for tours during this time. The Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise tour will still operate without the visit underground to the Powerstation.

Online transactions/prices are conducted in what currency?

All prices and transactions on the RealNZ website are in New Zealand dollars (NZD).  This is specified on the Terms & Conditions page.

What happens if there is an emergency?

Our staff are trained to deal with incidents and in case of an emergency you should listen to their instructions. We have a portable defibrillator on each of our overnight cruise vessels (Milford Mariner, Milford Wanderer and Fiordland Navigator). In addition to this we also have portable defibrillators at the following locations: •    Milford Sound Visitor Terminal •    RealNZ Visitor Centre, Manapouri •    Cavern House (Te Anau Glowworm Caves) •    Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant, Walter Peak •    TSS Earnslaw Vintage Steamship •    Stewart Island Ferry (Bluff - Oban - Bluff)

Can my dietary requirements be accommodated? 

Yes, dietary requirements can be catered for. Please provide detailed information regarding your dietary requirements when making a booking. 

Will I be sharing a quad room? 

There is a possibility that you might share a quad room with other customers, and it’s important to note these rooms are equipped with a curtain partition instead of a door. Please be aware of this configuration when booking and please contact us if you need further clarification. 

Is the boat accessible for individuals with impaired mobility? 

When we are informed in advance about guests with hindered mobility, we make every effort to mitigate the impact by assigning rooms in proximity to the main areas. However, it’s important to note that our vessels are not optimally equipped for potential needs. While we extend a warm welcome to individuals with impaired mobility, all our vessel’s doorways feature a sea sill, there are no ramps within the boat, and a flight of stairs separates rooms from the main saloon. 

What is the best room type for families or children on an overnight cruise?

Our t win sleeping compartments provide the best privacy for travelling with your family and children. A twin room is a private room for two people with two single beds.

Our places. Our experiences. Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises. Escape to the peace and tranquillity of Doubtful Sound on a magical overnight cruise.

You might also like

Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruises

Milford Sound Overnight Cruises

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

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Boat cruises in Fiordland

Cruising towards Mitre Peak, Fiordland

By Southern Discoveries

The spectacular geography and wildlife of Fiordland’s Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are best experienced up close on a boat cruise.

Here, steep cliffs rise out of deep blue water and fur seals sunbathe on rocks. Take a boat cruise up to the Bowen Falls – which are 160m high – or the Stirling Falls, which cascade into the fiord like a giant shower. Some boats have underwater viewing observatories, and all provide panoramic photo opportunities.

Look out for penguins and dolphins, as well as whales – the occasional one makes it all the way into the fiords.

Find boat cruises

Find places to stay, find transport.

Visit the official travel website for Fiordland

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Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island:

Exploring New Zealand's Remote Backyard

Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island: Exploring New Zealand's Remote Backyard

DAYS 6 / SHIP Heritage Adventurer

PRICES FROM $3,750 USD (More Rates)

Join Heritage Expeditions, pioneers in authentic small ship expedition cruising, as we explore New Zealand’s remote southern backyard on this special voyage. Discover the time-forgot rawness of wildlife rich Stewart and Ulva Islands before exploring the primordial majesty of Fiordland where clouds scud ragged peaks of glacier-cleaved mountains only accessible by expedition ship, and the rare opportunity to combine these iconic destinations on one voyage.

Rich in history and wildlife, Stewart and Ulva Islands are home to a unique range of birdlife including Bellbird, Tui, Kaka, Tomtit, Rifleman, Stewart Island Robin, Saddleback, Mohua and of course, the Stewart Island Brown Kiwi. There will be opportunities to listen to the native bird song and enjoy the golden sandy beaches, before taking the time to take a closer look at the history of Paterson Inlet.

As we expedition cruise up the lower west side of New Zealand's South Island, we prepare for the grand scale scenery of Fiordland. Exploring these remote ice-carved mountains, verdant forests and winding fiords, it is easy to see why this incredible region inspired our dream for responsible travel. In the calm waters of Fiordland, and away from the crowds, we can expect to encounter playful New Zealand Fur Seals, curious Dusky Dolphins, elusive birds and enjoy endless stunning vistas.

During our time here we plan to Zodiac cruise glittering waterways amid the podocarp forest-cloaked spines of Anchor and Resolution Islands and the tiny islands of Dusky Sound where orchids, flame-tipped Rata and clusters of alpine tree daisies put on an impressive floral display.

On predator-free Anchor Island, home to half the world's population of Kakapo as well as Little Spotted Kiwi, we'll cross tannin-stained streams and walk around Lake Kirirua, its calm surface reflecting the forest-fringed edge, before arriving at historic Luncheon Cove - a location of New Zealand firsts including first sealing gang, first European settlement and first ship to be built in the country. Discover hidden inlets, coves and beaches as we make our way around Sportsman Cove and Zodiac cruise to explore the lush wilderness of Cooper Island.

Our passion for helping protect and sharing New Zealand's special wilderness remains as strong as it was back in 1985. Join us and tick this once-in-a-lifetime experience off your travel bucket list and explore remote parts of New Zealand's Southern region, an area known for its diverse range of wildlife and jaw-dropping scenery where you will discover the real Fiordland and Stewart Island.

Send a message to an Expedition Specialist:

Our ship: heritage adventurer.

VIEW SHIP PROFILE

Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island - 3 Jan 2025 to 8 Jan 2025 - Heritage Adventurer

Pre/post cruise transfers, one night hotel accommodation in a twin share room (incl. dinner/breakfast), all on board ship accommodation with meals, house beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner and all expedition shore excursions. Programme of lectures by noted naturalists.

All items of a personal nature, laundry, drinks, gratuities, helicopter excursion. International/domestic flights, visas and travel insurance.

Looking for a taste of what you can expect on our expeditions or want to relive your voyage? Our Trip Reports offer a detailed, day-by-day account of all of our previous expeditions tracking the voyage route and highlighting the numerous wildlife and cultural encounters experienced along the way.

Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island

➞ View all Unseen Fiordland and Stewart Island posts

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Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

Spanning nearly 3 million acres, Fiordland is among the largest national parks in New Zealand and arguably the most spectacular. This South Island sanctuary, established in 1952, is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site and presents a landscape of flourishing forests, snow-cloaked mountains and glacier-carved valleys. Cruises here explore some of the park's stunning fiords, including the serene Doubtful Sound, the deepest fiord in the country and home to wildlife such as dolphins, fur seals and penguins. As you make your way along Milford Sound, past its sheer cliff faces and towering waterfalls, you'll understand why novelist Rudyard Kipling once described it as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." Zodiac expeditions offer an up-close look at the flora and fauna of this natural treasure, while overnight excursions take you to the adventure destination of Queenstown, where you can go boating, quad-biking, whitewater rafting, paragliding or skydiving.

Cruise Ships

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Port Chalmers is the primary South Island port for the cruise ship industry and the ideal port of call immediately before or after visiting Fiordland.

The Otago Peninsula is home to the world’s only mainland Albatross breeding colony and various other ocean bird, seal and penguin species, including the rare Yellow Eyed Penguin. Dunedin’s beautiful architecture is widely regarded as the best example of a Victorian and Edwardian heritage city in the southern hemisphere. 

Contact us for more information. Phone: +64 3 472 9876 Email: [email protected]

• +31 20 509 1000
• River cruise

Sea cruise calendar

The sea cruise calendar lists all the information about the arrival and departure of the cruise ships at Cruise Port Amsterdam

The terminal of Cruise Port Amsterdam is an all year round destination. In this calendar you’ll find all the information regarding the arrival and departure dates.

The times of arrival and departure are specified by the agent as a guideline, this is not fixed and could be changed at any time. Cruise Port Amsterdam attempts to keep the calendar up to date. However you should always check, the most up to date information with your booking agency, before departure.

No data available

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 09 Feb

08:00 - 07:30 uur Departure: 24 Feb

08:30 - 20:00 uur

Viking Saturn

08:00 - 18:00 uur

16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 02 May

Norwegian Star

06:00 - 17:00 uur

Celebrity Silhouette

08:30 - 07:30 uur Departure: 06 May

Norwegian Prima

10:00 - 19:00 uur

Norwegian Getaway

10:00 - 18:00 uur

07:00 - 17:45 uur

Jewel of the Seas

07:00 - 16:00 uur

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11:00 - 21:00 uur

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World Navigator

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16:30 - 23:59 uur Departure: 13 Jun

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Seven Seas Voyager

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10:00 - 22:00 uur Departure: 03 Aug

Carnival Legend

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18:00 - 17:30 uur Departure: 12 Aug

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Serenade of the Seas

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19:00 - 18:30 uur Departure: 25 Aug

Azamara Onward

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Disney Dream

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Hanseatic Spirit

10:00 - 14:00 uur Departure: 18 Oct

Silver Dawn

13:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 22 Oct

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21:00 - 06:00 uur Departure: 18 Nov

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Mein Schiff 3

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07:00 - 18:00 uur Departure: 17 Dec

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Schedules, terminals, wiki, news, live port maps,  oranjestad aruba , netherlands antilles.

Oranjestad is a port city on Aruba Island - an island country, one Holland's overseas territories. The city is also the country's largest town and capital, with population around 35,000. Aruba is the...

 Labadee Haiti , Royal Caribbean private island

Labadee is an exclusive (privately-owned) Caribbean island port and resort destination located on Haiti's northern coast. This "private island" (area sized 260 acres/105 hectares) is leased until...

 Southampton , England

Port Southampton is the UK's largest passenger (ferry and cruise) port and Britain's second-largest cargo/container port (following Felixstowe). Its first dock was opened in 1843. Most of its...

 Guam Island USA , Apra Harbor, Marianas

Guam Island is a USA unincorporated territory in the Western Pacific Ocean. Guam's citizens are US citizens by birth. The list of all 4 unincorporated US territories also includes the Northern...

 Split , Croatia

Split is an Adriatic Sea (Dalmatian Coast) cruise port and city in Croatia, which by population (around 180,000, metro over 345,000) is ranked the country's second-largest - following the capital...

 Seattle , Washington

Port Seattle's cruise passenger shipping business started in 1999 and is currently ranked first among all West Coast USA homeports (departure seaports). Each homeported ship's visit generates USD 4...

 Jeju Island , Cheju City, Korea

Jeju Island (aka Jejudo/Chejudo) is located in Korea Strait, approx 130 km (80 mi) to the south of mainland South Korea. Jeju is among the country's top island resort destinations and is often...

 Santorini Island , Thira, Greece

Santorini Island (Greece) is among the most popular ports of call on Eastern Mediterranean/Aegean cruises. The island is in the Aegan Sea and is the southernmost of the Greek Cycladic Islands...

 Miami , Florida

PortMiami and Port Everglades/Fort Lauderdale are the world's largest/busiest cruise ports and the USA's main turnaround/departure ports for roundtrip Caribbean voyages. Both seaports and their...

 Nassau , Bahamas, New Providence Island

Nassau is The Bahamas' main/principal and largest seaport as well as the country's capital city - located approx 310 mi / 500 km east of Florida USA. Port Nassau (locode BSNAS) is on New Providence...

 Piraeus-Athens , Greece

Piraeus is the biggest seaport in Greece and among the largest in the Mediterranean. The port also serves the country's capital - Athens City. Greece's second-largest seaport is Thessaloniki...

 Dubrovnik , Croatia, Port Gruz

Dubrovnik is an Adriatic Sea cruise port and city in Croatia, and one of Europe's historically most prominent and popular vacation travel destinations. The city has population around 43,000 (metro...

 Mykonos Island , Greece

Mykonos Island is one of Cyclades Islands (Greece, Aegean Sea), located in the archipelago's center. The Cyclades form a circle surrounding the sacred Delos Island. Group's larges island is Naxos...

 Zanzibar , Tanzania

Zanzibar is a major port city and a semi-autonomous part of Tanzania (East Africa, Indian Ocean). The city is located approx 50 km (30 mi) off the coast of mainland Africa and also includes 2 large...

 Cobh-Cork , Ireland

Port Cobh (cruise port for Cork) is Ireland's second largest seaport (after Dublin). The distance Cobh-Cork is approx 20 km (12 mi). The seaport also serves as main/principal seaport for the country...

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Norwegian Cruise captain refused to let eight passengers who were late reboard ship

Passengers, who have since rejoined vessel, missed scheduled departure time from São Tomé and scrambled to reunite with ship

Eight cruise passengers had to scramble to reunite with their cruise ship after being left behind in São Tomé and Príncipe.

The passengers, including a pregnant woman and a paraplegic traveller, missed their scheduled departure time from the island of São Tomé in the Gulf of Guinea, about 250km off the coast of Gabon, after disembarking the Norwegian Dawn to take a local tour.

Another passenger in her 80s was reportedly late to the ship because she was receiving emergency medical treatment on the island.

The vessel, operated by Norwegian Cruise Lines, arrived in São Tome on Wednesday morning having departed Cape Town for the three-week cruise to Barcelona on 20 March.

The group’s private day excursions on the island ran overtime and, despite the efforts of the local coast guard, which motored the group to the ship before it set sail that afternoon, the captain would not allow the late guests to board.

Jill and Jay Campbell, from Garden City in South Carolina, described attempting to board the vessel after arriving late.

“We have never had an experience like this before,” Jill Campbell told ABC4 News .

“The harbour master tried to call the ship, the captain refused the call. We sent emails to NCL, the NCL customer service emergency number. They said, ‘Well, the only way for us to get in touch with the ship is to send them emails, they’re not responding to our emails,’” Jay Campbell added.

“The captain could have made an easy decision to turn one of the tender boats back, pick us up, safely load us, and then go on the way.”

The travellers’ passports were returned to them via port authorities. The group, which reportedly includes two Australians, had to leave their medication, bank cards and other belongings on board. The Campbells said they were the only members of the group with a Visa card and had paid more than $5,000 in their attempts to reach the ship.

They aimed to reboard the Norwegian Dawn in the Gambia the following Sunday but low tides prevented the ship from making the scheduled stop. The group reportedly travelled through six countries and eventually met the ship in Dakar, Senegal, the final west African port call of its journey, according to the cruise line.

“What we looked at was some type of van transportation for eight people, the quadriplegic woman included,” Jay Campbell told ABC15 . He described having to take a ferry to get into Senegal, and then a four-hour drive.

Australians Doug and Violeta Sanders were among the stranded passengers.

“It’s been the worst experience of our lives to be abandoned like that in a strange country, can’t speak the language,” Violeta Sanders told Seven’s Sunrise program.

“We have no money, our credit cards aren’t accepted.”

The 21-day cruise is due to end in Barcelona on 10 April.

A spokesperson for Norwegian Cruise Lines said it was a “very unfortunate situation” and that it was the passenger’s responsibility to be back on board the ship no later than one hour before the ship’s scheduled departure time.

A Sydney travel lawyer, Anthony Cordato, said passengers needed to heed ships’ tight schedules.

“Terms and conditions would make returning to the ship on time essential,” he said.

“From a consumer’s perspective, it’s harsh but from a ship’s perspective, are you going to hold up the cruise for an hour or two because they were slow to get on board? Are you going to inconvenience 1,000 passengers for the sake of four?”

The cruise company said all eight guests had rejoined the ship.

In a statement, a spokesperson said: “On the afternoon of March 27, 2024, while the ship was in São Tomé and Príncipe, an African island nation, eight guests who were on the island on a private tour not organized through us missed the last tender back to the vessel, therefore not meeting the all aboard time of 3pm local time. While this is a very unfortunate situation, guests are responsible for ensuring they return to the ship at the published time, which is communicated broadly over the ship’s intercom, in the daily print communication and posted just before exiting the vessel.

“When the guests did not return to the vessel at the all aboard time, their passports were delivered to the local port agents to retrieve when they returned to the port, as per the regular protocol. Our team has been working closely with the local authorities to understand the requirements and necessary visas needed for the guests to rejoin the ship at the next available port of call. Given that these guests were on a private tour and did not return to the ship at the communicated all aboard time, they are responsible for any necessary travel arrangements to rejoin the ship at the next available port of call, per our protocol.

“While the eight guests made arrangements to rejoin the ship in Banjul, Gambia on April 1, 2024, unfortunately the ship was unable to safely dock in the destination due to adverse weather conditions, as well as tidal restrictions that require specific timing for safe passage. While we share in our guests’ disappointment, this modification was made with great consideration for their safety and that of our crew, which is our top priority. We contacted these eight guests regarding this itinerary adjustment and provided them with authorization to rejoin the ship at Dakar, Senegal on April 2, 2024.

“Despite the series of unfortunate events outside of our control, we will be reimbursing these eight guests for their travel costs from Banjur, Gambia to Dakar, Senegal. As of this morning, all eight guests have rejoined the ship.”

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Will Seattle see more cruise ships 'plugged in' for the 2024 season?

by Hannah Knowles | KOMO News Reporter

SEATTLE, WA — As spring settled over Seattle, the familiar hum of cruise ships in the Sound returned to the city's waterfront. The welcome of cruise season means a major boost for the economy, tourism, and this year, cleaner air.

The Port of Seattle was working to become the greenest port in North America and to phase out seaport-related emissions by 2050.

The Port installed shore power nearly 20 years ago at Pier 91, and is now on track to add shore power to Pier 66 in time for the 2024 cruise season. Every time a ship plugs into power at port, instead of using generators that run on fuel, it reduces that ship’s emissions by 98%.

RELATED I Cruise season starts in Seattle this weekend after record-setting year

"Each time a cruise ship docks in Seattle, it takes an average of 10 hours to offload guests and their luggage, load provisions, welcome new guests and prepare for its next departure," the Port said. "While ships are at berth, they still need energy to run lights, chill food, operate equipment, and power a myriad of other onboard services. A shore power connection allows cruise ships to plug into cleaner, landside electrical power and turn off diesel engines while at berth."

The Port of Seattle became the second port in the world, after Juneau, Alaska, to add shore power. The Port of Seattle has two shore power-connected berths at the Smith Cove Cruise Terminal at Pier 91.

Additionally, a project to expand shore power to the Pier 66 cruise berth is expected to be completed and online during the 2024 cruise season.

"After the summer of 2024, all cruise berths operated by the Port of Seattle will have shore power connections," the Port said.

ALSO SEE | Seattle celebrates record-setting cruise season with 1.7 million projected passengers, millions in revenue

The Port of Seattle said they expect more than 800,000 passengers and 275 ship calls this cruise season. The first ship is scheduled to arrive on Saturday from Norwegian Cruise Line. The season is expected to last until October 28.

Last year, the Port of Seattle reported they saw 1.7 million passengers, about 400,000 more than in 2022.

Seattle’s cruise industry is a major economic driver for the region providing more than 5,500 jobs and around $900 million into the region’s economy each season.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Bliss will arrive at the Bell Street Pier Cruise Terminal at Pier 66 on Saturday, April 6.

Click here to see the full list of the Port of Seattle's cruise schedule.