Heritage Explorer viewed through trees, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand

The Remote Sounds of New Zealand’s South

  • EXPERT-LED CRUISE
Start date End date Days
Prices from
ex. flights
Boat
16/07/26 25/07/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
31/08/26 09/09/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
10/09/26 19/09/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place

Slip into the furthest reaches of Fiordland on an intimate expedition cruise aboard an 18-guest yacht. Over 10 days, explore the great sounds and seldom-visited inlets, from Milford and Doubtful to remote Dusky and George Sound. 

Travel by Zodiac and kayak into sheltered coves and along forested shores. While many itineraries allow just a day or night in these fiords, spending longer transforms the experience, offering time to slow down, relax and truly absorb the scale, silence and wilderness of Fiordland.

Key Highlights of this Itinerary

Albatross soaring, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand 1

Remote Reaches

Cruise deep into Dusky, Doubtful, Milford and George Sounds, reaching waterways and coves only accessible by sea.

Kayaking, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand 2

Zodiac Kayaking

Step off the yacht into Zodiacs and kayaks to explore sea-level perspectives, hidden inlets and calm, sheltered harbours.

Zodiac expedition in fiord, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand 3

Wildlife Havens

Visit predator-free islands that protect kakapo and little spotted kiwi, plus chances to spot dolphins, penguins and seals.

Zodiac at Dusky Sound waterfall, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand 4

Fiordland Stories

Uncover human history at places like Preservation Inlet, from shipwreck relics to early industry traces and conservation firsts.

Explore our suggested itinerary

  • Day 1

    Bluff to Fiordland

  • Day 2

    Preservation Inlet

  • Day

    Dusky Sound

  • Day

    Doubtful Sound

  • Day

    Milford Sound

  • Day

    George Sound

  • Day

    Disembarkation

Day 1

Bluff to Fiordland

Join Heritage Explorer in Bluff and sail south into Fiordland National Park. Settle into life on board. Evening briefing and first wildlife sightings.

Day 2

Preservation Inlet

Explore this historic harbour by Zodiac. Walk among forest remnants of New Zealand’s early sealing and mining days. Rich birdlife throughout.

Day

Dusky Sound

A full day in remote Dusky Sound. Cruise deep into its arms and islands. Kayaking and shore walks reveal ancient forest and sheltered bays.

Day

Doubtful Sound

Navigate one of Fiordland’s deepest sounds. Zodiac cruises beneath waterfalls and sheer cliffs. Watch for dolphins and fur seals.

Day

Milford Sound

Arrive early before day visitors. Explore side fiords and coastline. Optional walks and kayaking in calm conditions.

Day

George Sound

A rarely visited fiord with striking mountain scenery. Zodiac cruising and coastal exploration. A final evening celebrating the journey.

Day

Disembarkation

Sail north along the coast. Disembark at Bluff after breakfast.

Our travel experts can tailor this itinerary to suit you.

Heritage Explorer boat and kayakers
Heritage Explorer boat and kayakers by J.Hepburn

Life on board Heritage Explorer

Heritage Explorer is a purpose-built expedition yacht designed for New Zealand’s southern waters. With just 18 guests, the atmosphere is relaxed and personal. Cabins are simple and comfortable, with generous shared spaces for viewing wildlife and landscapes. Zodiacs and kayaks allow flexible exploration each day. Onboard guides share deep local knowledge, while the crew create a warm, informal rhythm that quickly feels familiar.

Zodiacs below Sullivan Falls, Heritage Expeditions, Fiordland, New Zealand
Sullivan Falls with Heritage Expeditions, by C.Todd

Exploring Fiordland

Fiordland is a place shaped by ice, rain and time. Towering cliffs plunge straight into dark water. Ancient rainforest clings to every ledge. Waterfalls appear after even the lightest rain. Travelling by small vessel allows access far beyond the well-known sounds. You reach quiet anchorages and hidden inlets. Exploration happens slowly, at sea level, where scale and silence truly register.

How does this holiday make a positive impact?

The voyage supports conservation-led exploration of fragile marine ecosystems. Small group sizes reduce impact, while expert guiding encourages understanding of Fiordland’s coastal and marine environments.

Visits to predator-free islands highlight New Zealand’s conservation success stories. Guests learn about native bird protection, habitat restoration and the importance of biosecurity in remote wilderness areas.

The cruise employs local crew, guides and suppliers. It supports responsible tourism that values expertise, long-term stewardship and meaningful employment in remote regions.

Other available dates

For further information about any of these tours please call 01285 880 980

Start date End date Days
Prices from
ex. flights
Boat
16/07/26 25/07/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
31/08/26 09/09/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
10/09/26 19/09/26 10 days £4,465 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
16/01/27 25/01/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
14/03/27 23/03/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
23/03/27 01/04/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
16/07/27 25/07/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
31/08/27 09/09/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place
10/09/27 19/09/27 10 days £4,690 pp Heritage Explorer Reserve place

Why Choose Steppes?

Our knowledge, curiosity and expertise set us apart, driving us to create remarkable holidays and Beautiful Adventures tailored perfectly to you, carefully curated to help protect and conserve our planet.

Are you ready to Discover Extraordinary?


More about Steppes

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01285 880 980