04 Mar 2024

Walking through Time - A Dusky Sound Adventure

After a rocky night at sea, we awoke to a calm and tranquil morning as Heritage Adventurer was anchored in the shelter of Fiordland at Dusky Sound. This morning's adventure was to Pigeon Island and a Zodiac cruise to Facile Harbour. At Pigeon Island, we learned of the heroic conservation efforts of Richard Henry, who tirelessly worked for seven years transporting Kākāpō and Kiwi to the island, and the nearby Anchor Island in the 1890s. Zodiac cruising through Facile Harbour, we learned about the wreck of the Endeavour and the possibility of New Zealand’s first case of insurance fraud as the vessel shipwrecked at a nearby beach. This incredible history was reinforced by the towering mountains surrounding us which had risen from shifts in the tectonic plates.

Back on board, we relocated to Earshell Cove for a choice of three options; a Zodiac cruise alongside the vast islands of Dusky Sound, a Zodiac cruise and landing to hike to a nearby waterfall, or stay on board to relax and enjoy the documentary on the history of Dusky Sound. It was an immersive experience exploring the nooks and crannies of Dusky Sound, the area seemed frozen in time and presented conditions similar to what the first settlers of the area would have experienced.

Returning to the comforts of Heritage Adventurer we enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch out on the deck immersing ourselves in the serene beauty of Fiordland.

To top off this fantastic Fiordland day, we anchored near Anchor Island for either a two-hour trek around the island or a Zodiac cruise exploring the surrounding area. This afternoon we experienced four seasons in one day, or five minutes, as sun turned to rain, which turned to hail, which turned to sun again all in a matter of moments. Those opting for the Zodiac cruise had a fabulous encounter with New Zealand Fur Seals, Oystercatchers and Spotted Shags who were lounging on a small island of rocks. We learned of the fascinating history of Anchor Island, where New Zealand’s first boat and house were built in 1972 and soaked in captivating scenery and bustling wildlife.