Australia, New Zealand and South Pacific Islands Destination Planner 2017 | Page 151

South Island / QUEENSTOWN TOURING

149

Milford Track Guided Day Walk
Operated by Real Journeys
Join this full-day guided walk with a small group and explore the first section of the world-renowned Milford Track . Travel by coach from Te Anau or Queenstown and cruise up to the head of Lake Te Anau . Walk beside the Clinton River from Glade Wharf to Glade House for a leisurely lunch , taking in the magnificent views as you walk further up the valley through forest , grassy flats and wetlands . The gradient is gentle with four to five hours ' easy walking . Arrive at Neale Burn River and admire the spectacular alpine views before returning along the track to Te Anau .
Milford Sound Nature Cruise
Operated by Real Journeys
Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces and watch out for dolphins , seals and in season , the rare Fiordland crested penguins on this relaxing cruise . The onboard nature guide will share the fiord ’ s natural beauty with you and outline in detail its flora and fauna . From the comfort of the boat , explore points of interest and view stunning scenery including rainforest and towering peaks . Travel by coach from Te Anau or Queenstown or choose a scenic alpine flight from Queenstown ( subject to weather conditions ). price guide : $$$ price guide : $
Doubtful Sound Wilderness Day Cruise
Operated by Real Journeys
Board a luxury coach in Queenstown and travel along the shores of Lake Wakatipu to Manapouri township . Cruise across the crystal waters of Lake Manapouri to West Arm before boarding a coach and crossing the alpine route of Wilmot Pass through some of Fiordland ’ s most dense rainforest . On reaching Deep Cove , passengers explore the waterways of this serene and isolated fiord on a modern catamaran for a three-hour cruise . On return , the vessel ' s engines are turned off and guests are treated to the ' Sound of Silence '. Keep an eye out for dolphins , fur seals and penguins .
Milford Sound Overnight Cruise price guide : $$$
Operated by Real Journeys
An overnight cruise is the ultimate way to experience Milford Sound . When all the day visitors have left , the fiord transforms into a peaceful scene of dramatic landscape .
After boarding the Milford Mariner , guests enjoy a full-length cruise of the fiord out to the Tasman Sea . The flexible nature of the cruise means there is ample time to look out for wildlife such as seals , penguins and dolphins . The nature guide ensures an immersive experience as guests learn about the history and natural environment of the fiord . Go for a paddle in a kayak or hop on board a tender craft to explore the fiord up close . The boat will anchor in the shelter of Harrison Cove overnight .
Overnight accommodation is in private ensuite cabins . Enjoy a sumptuous threecourse buffet dinner and in the morning , a cooked and continental buffet breakfast . Transport is available in luxury glass-roofed coaches from Te Anau and Queenstown .
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise price guide : $$$$
Operated by Real Journeys
Indulge in an overnight cruise in the long southern twilight and savour dinner , bed and breakfast with a difference . From Manapouri , cruise across Lake Manapouri to West Arm before crossing the alpine route of Wilmot Pass through some of Fiordland ' s most dense rainforest . The overnight vessel , Fiordland Navigator , is purpose-built for cruising Doubtful Sound and features private cabins with ensuite bathrooms . Cruise the fiord , weaving through hidden coves and mystical waterways . Knowledgeable nature guides will share their passion for the region . This fiord is home to bottlenose dolphins , fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested and little blue penguins .
As evening draws near , you ' ll drop anchor at a sheltered mooring . Take the opportunity to explore the shoreline by kayak or small boat . In the evening , relax in the saloon and enjoy a delicious meal prepared by the chef . Coach transport is available from Te Anau and Queenstown .
price guide : $$$$
From prices for accommodation are ‘ per room ’ and sightseeing are ‘ per person ’. www . andersonvacations . ca