06 Mar 2024

Stunning views in the Doubtful Sound

We awoke today as Heritage Adventurer began cruising into the Milford Sounds just before sunrise. Perched on the deck and observation lounge, we soaked in the snow-capped mountains basking in the rising sun. After witnessing the breathtaking beauty of the sounds, we enjoyed a panel discussion of the Māori history of Fiordland and the South Island with Ta Tipene O’Regan, Atholl Anderson and Lou Sanson.

After some lectures on board, we Zodiac cruised to Deas Cove for a short walk and were greeted by a horde of hungry sandflies. The towering granite landscape and flat land proved a stark contrast to the islands we had explored previously in the Dusky Sound. However, we were reminded of Fiordland’s testing conditions and had a short journey through varying terrain on the way to the Department of Conservation Deas Cove Hut, used by hunting and fishing parties. Heading around the cove, the path down took us to a spectacular beach where nature was abundant with curious Weka, Variable Oystercatchers and a plethora of flowering plants and bushes.

Back on board Heritage Adventurer, we prepared for our next adventure as we passed through a beautiful channel near Bowser Island, aptly named The Gut. Those opting for the scenic helicopter ride departed. For the rest of us, it was either a three-hour long walk to Gut Hut, or a scenic Zodiac cruise exploring The Many Islands and Bowser Island in the Dusky Sound. The Zodiac cruise provided a feast for the senses, and for dinner, as Lou managed to secure five Crayfish from nearby divers for tomorrow’s Captain’s Cocktails.

To finish the night, we enjoyed presentations from Lucy, Phil and Glenda on their conservation work in Fiordland.