Doubtful Sound - South Island, New Zealand

Doubtful Sound is a massive wilderness area of rugged peaks, dense bush and waterfalls. It is the deepest (420 metres) and second longest (40 kilometres) of the South Island's fiords. It is a powerful place - serene, mysterious and untouched by the modern world.

The fiord was originally named by Captain James Cook, who did not sail into the inlet because he was unsure his boat would be able to sail out again.

Doubtful Sound Activities

Doubtful Sound has some impressive waterfalls, particularly the Browne Falls cascades at 619 metres; Helena Falls at Deep Cove tumbles 220 metres. Wildlife is very present in this fiord - look out for the very friendly bottlenose dolphin pod, fur seals and penguins.

Interestingly, Doubtful Sound contains two different layers of water that don't mix. The top few meters is fresh water, fed by runoff from the surrounding mountains. Below this is a layer of salt water from the sea.

The difference between these two layers makes it difficult for light to get through. As a result, many deep-sea species - such as black coral - grow in the comparatively shallow depths.

Doubtful Sound is only accessible by tours which mainly depart from Manapouri (although some tours pick up from Te Anau and Queenstown and involve a scenic bus trip across the only accessible road, Wilmot Pass).

When you reach the fiord, you can explore in a sea kayak or 3 hour or overnight cruise. There are also some amazing ecology holidays on offer, whereby you sail on a well equipped yacht into the more remote parts of the World Heritage Area for 3 to 6 days.

Doubtful Sound Accommodation

Generally, the only way to spend a night in the Sound means spending a night on an overnight cruise. Most visitors base themselves in Te Anau.

LooknbookNZ can take care of your Doubtful Sound accommodation and Doubtful Sound activities letting you and your family/friends to have a dream holiday in the mysteriously fascinating Doubtful Sounds.