Doubtful Sound
Doubtful Sound/Patea is a fiord located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island. It is part of the Fiordland National Park, within the UNESCO Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site. The fiord is located in a remote and rugged area of the country and is one of the most spectacular and unspoiled natural areas of the world.
Doubtful Sound is not reachable by car, but you can take a tour which will organise all your transport, travelling across Lake Manapōuri by boat, then across Wilmot Pass by road before reaching Doubtful Sound/Patea. An alternative would be to take a scenic flight by helicopter or a float plane.
The fiord is approximately 40 kilometres long and surrounded by steep mountains and dense rainforest. It is home to various wildlife, including dolphins, seals, penguins, and bird species. Doubtful Sound/Patea is also home to many waterfalls, including the Browne Falls, which at 836 metres, could be the highest waterfall in New Zealand. Or is it? Depending on the definition used, some say it is a ‘cascade’, as the water flows down over the rock rather than free-falling. Otherwise, the Sutherland Falls near the Milford Track is usually officially quoted as the highest waterfall in NZ at 580 metres.
A Brief History
The Ngāi Tahu iwi (Māori tribe) had inhabited and moved through this area for centuries, fishing, hunting and gathering. Captain Cook was the first European to discover Doubtful Sound in 1770, but it was not until later that it was explored in detail. The fiord was named Doubtful Harbour by Cook, as he was uncertain whether he could exit the ‘bay’ again if he sailed his ship into it. In the late 1700s, the first European settlers arrived in the area for sealing & whaling. Living in such a remote area with over 7 metres of rainfall a year and an abundance of biting sandflies would have been a harsh existence!
The area was declared a National Park in 1952 and in 1986, was included in the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site. Today Doubtful Sound is a popular tourist destination with visitors coming to experience the stunning scenery and wildlife and being most popular for sightseeing, kayaking, fishing and other outdoor activities.
On your visit to Doubtful Sound, your first part of the journey will involve a boat ride across picturesque Lake Manapōuri. At Manapōuri’s West Arm, you will see the above-ground part of the Power Station, the central hub to the Mānapouri Hydro-electric scheme, New Zealand’s largest hydropower station. Read more about the Power Station and its interesting History on our Manapouri Page.
Our friendly reception team can recommend which tour will be best for you, and they will make the bookings on your behalf (note that all reservations require a minimum of 24 hours’ notice if you wish to change your plans).
Doubtful Sound Kayak Tour
Paddle Through a Pristine Wilderness
If you’re looking for an immersive way to explore Fiordland, our guided kayak tours in Doubtful Sound are the perfect adventure. Paddle through untouched fjords, past towering waterfalls, and alongside rare wildlife in one of the most remote parts of New Zealand. Doubtful Sound is often called the “Sound of Silence”—a place where you can truly disconnect and experience nature in its purest form.
Why Choose Doubtful Sound Kayaks?
✔ Small group, low-impact tours for an intimate experience
✔ No experience needed—our expert guides provide full instruction
✔ Encounter dolphins, seals, and rare native birds
✔ A unique, eco-friendly way to experience the beauty of Fiordland
Book your kayaking adventure today and experience the magic of Doubtful Sound.
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
An Overnight Cruise Like No Other
For those who want to experience Fiordland in the most relaxing and immersive way possible, the Southern Secret Overnight Cruise is the ultimate escape. Step aboard our small, family-run vessel and journey deep into Doubtful Sound. With ensuite cabins, chef-prepared meals, and knowledgeable local guides, this experience allows you to unwind, explore, and witness the beauty of Fiordland at its finest.
Why Choose Southern Secret?
✔ Small group overnight cruise with personal service
✔ Ensuite cabins for a comfortable stay in the heart of the fiords
✔ Delicious onboard meals, freshly prepared
✔ Incredible stargazing and serene sunrise moments
Unplug from the world and embark on an unforgettable overnight adventure.
Doubtful Sound Day Tour
With Real NZ
Meet your tour in Te Anau or Manapōuri and begin your full-day journey with a cruise over Lake Manapōuri. Then, board your bus at West Arm and travel over the Wilmot Pass and into Doubtful Sound. From here, sit back and relax on a comfortable all-weather vessel for your 3-hour cruise. In this ever-changing environment, you will experience the grandeur of remote Fiordland and may encounter dolphins, sea lions, bird-life and penguins.
Tour Details
Departs daily during the Summer Season (September to May). Picnic lunches can be pre-ordered when booking, and tea, coffee & snacks available to purchase onboard. Contact us to make reservations or ask about our Package Tour add-ons.
Your Fiordland
Adventure Starts Here
Wake up to breathtaking views, relax in comfort, and explore the best of Fiordland from Te Anau’s premier lakeside accommodation. Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, your perfect getaway starts now.
Where You Can Find Us
Physical Address
77 Manapouri Te Anau Highway,
Te Anau 9672
Phone Numbers
(+64) 3 249 7457
0800 483 262 (free within NZ)
Email Address
res@teanau.info
Work Hours
Winter: 9am - 6pm
Summer: 7.30am - 9pm