Dusky Sound Experience
Day Expedition
Far to the south, over rain forests, mountains, and deep glaciated valleys lies the mystical Dusky Sound.
Your journey starts before you reach Fiordland, with an awe-inspiring scenic flight passing through diverse landscapes and mountains to the isolated reaches of this National Park. Landing on our custom-built floating helipad, transfer to our day boat to enjoy an exclusive and incredibly private day of discovery, wildlife viewing and cuisine.
At Dusky Sound, it is possible to explore the pristine shoreline of this World Heritage Area and retrace the steps of explorer Captain Cook.
The archaeological evidence of Cook’s visit can still be seen in the tree stumps cut by his crew for timber used to repair the vessel, Resolution in 1773. This is a spectacular region of Fiordland National Park that is only experienced by a few lucky visitors who take away unforgettable memories.
Very few people visit Dusky Sound purely because of its isolated location at the south-western tip of Fiordland. Its inaccessibility to all but ocean-going vessels and helicopters reaffirms that the environment here is as pristine as it is possible to be.
Your exclusive day expedition features the cuisine for which our expeditions are synonymous, including a fully catered gourmet picnic lunch.
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Private return helicopter charter
Professional guide
Private boat cruise
Fishing
Fully catered gourmet picnic lunch
New Zealand’s Goods & Services Tax (GST) of 15%
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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 day is only just beginning.
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Allow a full day. Typically depart at 0830, back by late afternoon.
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Queenstown, Wanaka or Minaret Station Alpine Lodge.
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Our day expeditions in Dusky Sound are aboard our vessel, Sea Shadow. The comfortable 17m seafarer provides our guests with a private expedition. Suitable for families, couples, and groups of up to 15 guests.
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Our gourmet picnic lunches are created to complement the all-encompassing environment on the Dusky Sound Expedition. In a true forage for a feed experience, this could be freshly caught fish or crayfish you have gathered yourself, or protein direct from Minaret Station’s own high country station. Complimentary salads are assembled from local producers using seasonal harvest. The culmination of fresh produce and proteins create dishes that showcase the best of the cuisine of New Zealand’s South Island.
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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NZD (New Zealand Dollars) $19,950 per charter, up to four guests
