A short practical guide for Doubtful Sound

‘Sometimes it is the simplest… most practical stuff that matters the most to someone.’ – Patty Duke.

Why a practical guide?

Visiting Doubtful Sound on an overnight cruise is one of the best things I’ve done so far in my life. This is a bold statement and one I intend to justify when I share my story from Doubtful Sound.

However, I first want to provide some practical guidance to anyone wishing to organise an overnight cruise to Doubtful Sound for themselves. As such, I am sharing the below advice so that others can also experience the wonders of Doubtful Sound, and perhaps have one of the best experiences of their lives so far as well!

Oh, and… Enjoy the first sneaky peeks from my time in Doubtful Sound! There aren’t many photos in this post, as I’m saving them for when I share my story, but I hope you like the few I’ve included and they whet your appetite for what’s to come!

Booking your trip.

There are a few operators that sell an overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound, but the most accessible option is a Real Journeys cruise. Real Journeys are a family-run tour operator, and their overnight cruise accommodates up to 72 passengers, along with approximately 11 staff. This is the cruise I chose to do.

Book Early!

These cruises sell out fast! Real Journeys only operate these overnight cruises in Doubtful Sound during the summer months, running from September to May. I booked my January trip in September, and even then there were only a limited number of spaces left. If you’re dead set on doing an overnight cruise in Doubtful Sound, make sure you commit early, or face disappointment!

Travelling alone? Book a quad room.

I was hesitant about this at first, as I usually try to avoid dorms where possible these days. However, it worked out to be considerably cheaper than booking a room to myself, so I sucked it up and booked. And do you know what? It was fine! It didn’t even matter. I spent a sum total of five hours in the shared cabin, and that was when I was sleeping. The rest of the trip was spent elsewhere on board the ship… I could usually be found hanging over the sides trying to get as many photos as possible! You spend barely any time in your cabin, so don’t stress about booking a private room. It’s not really necessary.

The price is worth it.

This may be one of the more expensive things you do during your time in New Zealand. I balked a little at the price when I first saw it, but trust me, it’s one hundred and ten percent worth every single penny. Doubtful Sound is one of those last great wildernesses left in the world that feels untouched by human hand. Paying out to experience this is not a waste of money – it’s an investment. You’ll return from your trip awed, inspired and relaxed, having spent 24 hours away from it all. If you’re hesitating because of the price, just close your eyes and hit the ‘pay now’ button. I promise you won’t regret it.

What to pack.

Real Journeys do provide a packing list on their site, but I somehow managed to overlook this and felt a little under prepared for the trip. Thankfully, my lack of foresight did not mean I had to miss out on anything, but I did wish I’d packed a little more comprehensively.

Here’s my recommended packing list.

There are optional activities – either kayaking or taking a trip out on a small boat. There may also be a chance to swim! I forgot to take a change of clothes – don’t be like me and remember to pack:

• A pair of shorts or quick-dry leggings / trousers that you don’t mind getting wet
• Flip flops or waterproof sandals if you don’t want to go barefoot
• A spare t-shirt
• Swimming things (a towel is provided)

For life on board ship:

• Whatever bottoms you usually feel comfortable wearing (skirt, shorts, jeans etc)
• Whatever top you usually feel comfortable wearing (t-shirt, blouse, vest etc)
• A couple of jumpers and/or a fleece – I went in the middle of summer and still got chilly!
• Comfortable, non-slip shoes – I took a pair of trainers, but others wore hiking boots or stuck with their flip flops / sandals
• Pyjamas or night clothes
• Your usual toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap etc if you’d like to shower
• A waterproof jacket
• Optional – a hat and sunglasses, weather dependent

Other useful items you might consider packing:

• A torch
• Camera
• Mobile phone (there is no reception or WiFi, but useful for photos if you don’t have a camera!)
• A book or your Kindle
• Battery pack for charging devices on the go, and generally convenient to have
• Earplugs or headphones if sharing a cabin
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellent
• Cash for the bar (you can pay by credit card, but cash is easiest!)
• Your lunch for the first day

Other useful hints and tips

Make sure you take an appetite!

Real Journeys like to feed! We had an afternoon tea, a huge cooked buffet supper, snacks, plenty of drinks and both a continental and cooked breakfast while on board. And the food is all delicious as well. Don’t worry if you have allergies or an intolerance either – Real Journeys are really great about catering for everyone. I’m a vegetarian and the food I ate was excellent, without exception. If your dietary requirements extend beyond being a vegetarian or gluten-free, just let them know when you book and they’ll be able to accommodate your needs.

Don’t fret if it’s raining.

Doubtful Sound is beautiful no matter what the weather is doing when you visit. I was lucky enough to experience some calm, still periods of weather and saw some amazing light displays during our morning cruise on the second day. However, the first day was very gloomy, cloudy and dull and it was still one of the most incredible places I’ve ever seen! Go with an open mind.

If swimming is offered, do it!

Honestly. It was one of the best experiences of the entire trip, and I promise the water isn’t too cold! Try to either kayak or take a boat trip too – they’re worthwhile experiences, bringing you up close and personal with Doubtful Sound.

Embrace the group of people you’re with.

Even if you start as strangers, you’ll disembark in Manapouri on the second day bonded by your shared experiences and stories. I met some wonderful people on my cruise who made the trip extra special. We shared stories, had a laugh and generally had a wonderful time getting to know one another!

If you have any problems, speak to a member of the  crew.

They are there to help and ensure your trip is incredible. Without exception, every crew member I encountered was professional, friendly, and keen to make sure we all had a fantastic time. The trip would have been nothing without them, so don’t stress if you’re having an issue – they’re happy to help and will go that extra mile to ensure everything is perfect.

If you’re celebrating a special occasion, this is the perfect way to do so!

I celebrated my 30th birthday on board, and was treated like a queen. Everyone was so kind and generous in their well wishes, making my trip extra special. So if you are celebrating a special occasion, I cannot recommend celebrating in Doubtful Sound highly enough. You’ll certainly never forget it!