Overnight Expeditions

Dusky Sound

Immerse yourself in this natural, world heritage wonderland, as you journey through the unspoiled wilds of Dusky Sound.

Begin your expedition by flying through Ata Whenua Fiordland and Dusky Sound, as you view rain forests and the labyrinth of mountains and deep glaciated valleys into this UNESCO World Heritage site.  

Landing on our custom-built floating helipad, transfer onto your private boat, Sea Finn, to embark on your multi-day expedition through Dusky Sound.  

With its dramatic scenery, misty shrouded peaks, and a total lack of permanent habitation, Dusky Sound’s natural wonders are to be enjoyed from the sea floor to the mountain tops, and everywhere in between. Dotted with uninhabited islands, narrow straits meandering through deep fiords, and quiet coves surrounded by snow-capped peaks and cascading waterfalls, it is easy to grasp how this really is the most isolated location in New Zealand.  

Paddle boarding, bushwalking, wildlife viewing, and snorkelling are just some of the adventures that await. Explore Dusky Sound in true, pristine beauty from your private boat, with your expedition tailored to your personal interests. 

As the night sky opens, spend the evenings basking in your hot tub. The vast unique celestial features and otherworldly landscapes make star gazing a breathtaking attraction.  

World-class cuisine and warm, authentic service will be at the heart of your experience with Shadowland Expeditions, as you discover the primeval timelessness of Dusky Sound. 

    • Exclusive use of the boat for the duration of your expedition

    • Accommodation for up to eight guests in three private suites

    • Private skipper and guide for ocean activities

    • Ocean activities include paddle boarding, fishing and snorkeling

    • Hot tub

    • Nightly pre-dinner drinks and canapés

    • Nightly multi-course gourmet dinner

    • Daily full breakfast

    • Daily fresh lunch

    • An extensive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages

    • New Zealand’s Goods & Services Tax (GST) of 15%

  • Dusky Sound’s isolated location at the south-western tip of Fiordland makes the journey to this rainforest an experience. Powered by Alpine Helicopters, your journey into the heart of Dusky Sound showcases some of the world’s most spectacular scenery, and your expedition is only just beginning.

  • Our Dusky Sound expeditions offer guests the opportunity to view the expanse of Dusky Sound, with every expedition customised based on what they wish to enjoy.

  • For overnight expeditions, your vessel through Dusky Sound will be aboard Sea Finn. A 23.3m, 3-level premium seafarer providing our guests with a private, comfortable expedition. Suitable for families, couples, and groups of up to 8 guests.

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  • We pride ourselves on knowing where our food is sourced and only catching what is needed.

    Your personal chef aboard uses only the freshest local ingredients. Every meal is curated fresh for you. In a true forage for a feed experience, this will be freshly caught fish or crayfish you have gathered yourself, free-range venison, Lumina Lamb or Angus Beef which are all sourced from Minaret Station’s 50,000-acre working farm. Our beautiful produce is provided by our passionate Wanaka local growers.

    We pair our food with an extensive range of fine New Zealand wines from boutique winemakers who care as much about their wines as we do about our food.

    We can cater to all dietary requirements including allergies, diets, religious beliefs or simply dislikes. The most important thing is you notify our Reservations team at the time of booking to ensure that our chefs have all the information required. All of our produce is flown into Fiordland so advanced notice allows us to confidently cater to your needs.

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  • Queenstown, Wanaka, Manapouri and Minaret Station Alpine Lodge. Other departure locations by arrangement

  • Nightly tariff*: $14,000 per night, for up to 6 guests

    Minimum two-night stay applicable year round

    Return helicopter transfers in addition.
    - Departing Queenstown, Wanaka, or Minaret Station Alpine Lodge: Up to 6 Guests: $28,000 Per Return Charter
    - Departing Manapouri: Up to 6 Guests: $12,500 Per Return Charter

    *Our overnight expeditions can accommodate up to 8 guests upon request. Additional nightly tariff applicable