Day Expedition

Your journey begins before you reach Fiordland, with an awe-inspiring
scenic flight passing through diverse landscapes and mountains to the isolated reaches of this Dusky Sound. 

Landing on our private, floating helipad, we will seamlessly transfer you and your guests to our vessel, Sea Shadow, where you will enjoy an exclusive and awe-inspiring day immersed in this rugged environment. 

At Dusky Sound, you can 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 experienced by only a few lucky visitors who take away unforgettable memories.

Take in the vastness of this raw and rugged environment while dining on our vessel, with a fully catered, gourmet picnic lunch. A once-in-a-lifetime dining
experience our expeditions are renowned for.

Sit in awe of the pristine, untouched nature of Dusky Sound, a time capsule of New Zealand’s past, thanks to the isolated nature of its terrain, accessible only by helicopter or ocean-going vessels. Then, when it is time, step back into your private helicopter and experience this majestic environment one last time from above, as you reminisce on your day and return to civilisation.

  • $24,450 NZD
    Up to four guests
    Return helicopter transfers included

  • Sea Shadow is a comfortable 17m seafarer, providing an exclusive and
    up-close experience of Dusky Sound

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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.

  • Private scenic helicopter flights
    Private boat cruise
    Knowledgeable guides
    Optional fishing experience
    Fully catered gourmet picnic lunch

  • Allow a full day. Typically depart at 0830, back by late afternoon.

  • Wanaka, Queenstown or
    Minaret Station Alpine Lodge 

    Other departure locations by arrangement

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A couple sitting on a Shadowland Expedition's private vessel, overlooking a body of water in Dusky Sound, enjoying a meal outdoors on a sunny day with mountains in the background.
Shadowland Expeditions vessel floating on calm waters in Fiordland, with forested hillsides and mountains in the background under daylight.
Private helicopter transfer with Shadowland Expeditions flying over a fog-filled Fiordland canyon, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
Sea Shadow, Shadowland Expedition's private day expedition boat, moving across a body of water in Dusky Sound with mountains in the background and the sun shining.
Three people fishing on a private charter in Dusky Sound, Fiordland with mountainous landscape in the background. One woman is holding up a fish she caught, while two men fish nearby.
Sea Shadow, Shadowland Expeditions’ private day-trip vessel, cruising calm waters of Dusky Sound, Fiordland, with lush green mountains and blue skies.
Calm water of Dusky Sound reflecting green forested mountains on both sides, with a clear blue sky above.
Scenic Fiordland landscape viewed during sunrise or sunset, showing snow-capped mountains, multiple ridges, and a body of water, featured on Shadowland Expeditions.
Seals resting on a large rock in Fiordland, with ocean waters and mountains in the background, featured on a Shadowland Expeditions journey.
Private helicopter with Shadowland Expeditions flying over calm Fiordland waters, with reflective surfaces and mountains in the background.
Three people dining on a Shadowland Expedition's private boat with two men and a woman in a Dusky Sound surrounded by mountains.
Gourmet meal aboard a Shadowland Expeditions vessel, featuring lobster tail, grilled lamb chops, salad, and other dishes on a white tablecloth.

Embark on an an overnight immersion in nature’s splendour.

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