Doubtful Sound
New Zealand · Southland
Description
Doubtful Sound (Patea) is a remote fjord in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island and one of the country's most spectacular natural landscapes. Accessible only by boat across Lake Manapouri followed by a journey over Wilmot Pass, it is far less visited than nearby Milford Sound. Towering forested cliffs, countless waterfalls, and dark, tranquil waters define its dramatic scenery. Doubtful Sound is renowned for its rich wildlife, including bottlenose dolphins, New Zealand fur seals, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin, as well as its unique underwater environment where black corals thrive at unusually shallow depths. The fjord was named “Doubtful Harbour” by Captain James Cook in 1770, who chose not to enter because he doubted he could safely sail back out against the prevailing winds.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 2 days (optimal 1 day)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Overnight Doubtful Sound cruise
- Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise
- Lake Manapouri boat crossing
- Wilmot Pass
- Hall Arm
- Bottlenose dolphins
- New Zealand fur seals
- Fiordland crested penguins (July - November)
- Helicopter scenic flight
- Sea kayaking
- Hidden waterfalls after rainfall
Getting there
- Seaport:
- Reachable by ship or ferry