Northern Fiords Explorer

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tourhub | Heritage Expeditions | Northern Fiords Explorer | HX260726 | Map

14 Views

7 Days From

$4145

Tour Overview

Embark on the Northern Fiords Explorer, a captivating 7-day expedition cruise through New Zealand's breathtaking Fiordland. Begin your journey in Te Anau, traveling through the stunning Eglinton Valley to Milford Sound. Aboard the Heritage Explorer, you'll navigate the remote and majestic Northern Fiords, including the seldom-visited Bligh Sound and the expansive George Sound, home to the spectacular Alice Falls. Discover the historical Caswell Sound and the unique leg-shaped Nancy Sound, with its extensive marine reserves. Sail through the tranquil waters of Thompson Sound and the awe-inspiring Doubtful Sound, New Zealand's deepest fiord. Enjoy expert-guided wildlife spotting, photography opportunities, and immersive shore excursions, all while savoring the comfort of on-board accommodation and meals. This unforgettable adventure includes pre and post-cruise transfers, house drinks, and the expertise of naturalist guides, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. ...more ...less

Highlights

Experience the primordial majesty of Fiordland's Northern Fiords, including Milford Sound and the remote Bligh, George, Caswell, Nancy, Thompson, and Doubtful Sounds.
Spot albatross and seabirds while sailing the rich waters of the Fiordland Coast, and explore the seldom-visited Bligh Sound.
Witness the spectacular Alice Falls in George Sound, surrounded by dense forest and boulders.
Discover the historical remains of the 1949 New Zealand–American Fiordland scientific expedition in Caswell Sound.
Explore the unique leg-shaped Nancy Sound and the extensive marine reserves in Charles Sound.
Sail through the extensive sheltered waters of Thompson Sound and the breathtaking Doubtful Sound, New Zealand's deepest fiord.
Navigate to the head of Doubtful Sound in Deep Cove, home to several stunning waterfalls.

Itinerary

tourhub | Heritage Expeditions | Northern Fiords Explorer | HX260726 | Route Map

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Day 1: Te Anau/Milford Sound

Location: Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Milford Sound

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

Make your way to the designated meeting point in Te Anau then enjoy the scenic drive through the Eglinton Valley to Milford Sound and join Heritage Explorer (times and meeting point will be confirmed with your voyage documents). The Captain and Expedition Leader will be waiting to welcome you aboard Heritage Explorer and show you to your cabin. Settle into life aboard and prepare for the adventure ahead while revelling in the spellbinding scenery of Milford Sound. ...more ...less

Day 2: Bligh Sound

Location: Bligh Sound

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

Join your on board expedition naturalists to spot albatross and seabirds as we sail the rich waters of the Fiordland Coast before arriving in the seldom visited yet spectacular waters of Bligh Sound. With its crooked ‘Z’ shape you feel at the heart of the Fiordland wilderness when venturing to the head of the fiord at Bounty Haven where the Wild Natives River flows from the mountains above. Of particular interest here is one of Fiordland’s several ‘China Shops’, special zones containing a fragile environment where deep sea life can be viewed closer to the surface than normal due to the darkness created by the brackish water.

Day 3: George Sound

Location: George Sound, Alice Falls

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

After a night enjoying the tranquility of Bligh Sound, we navigate to the largest of the Northern Fiords, George Sound. Stretching 26-scenic-kilometres, George Sound is also the longest of the Northern Fiords and with several arms branching from the fiord we have multiple options for exploration. However, the spectacular sight of Alice Falls flanked by dense forest and tumbling over boulders as it thunders out of Lake Alice at the head of fiord is always a strong draw. It was at the head of George Sound that Wapiti/elk were introduced to New Zealand in 1905, part of the herd being gifted by American President Theodore Roosevelt.

Day 4: Caswell Sound

Location: Caswell Sound

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

Another rarely explored fiord, Caswell Sound is home to the last physical remains of the 1949 New Zealand–American Fiordland scientific expedition, a primitive hut standing on the banks of the Stillwater River used while studying the Wapiti/elk herd introduced earlier in the century. Tiny Styles Island guards the fiord’s entrance to the Tasman Sea while walks include a nature-filled stroll along Stillwater River towards Lake Marchant. Fishing here is good for those interested in securing tonight’s dinner.

Day 5: Charles & Nancy Sounds

Location: Nancy Sound, Charles Sound, Kahukura Marine Reserve, Taumoana Marine Reserve

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

Today we have the exploration of the southern-most of the northern fiords on our agenda. Flanked by steep mountains including Mount Napier and Command Peak, Nancy Sound was likely named after the vessel Nancy by Captain John Grono, one of the early sealing captains to explore Fiordland. Nancy Sound’s unusual leg shape was not lost on those who named it bestowing the section it turns at right angles to the north Foot Arm, which dutifully moves into Heel Cove and Toe Cove. Leg Head and Bend Point were similarly literally named. At nearby Charles Sound, the fiord branches into Emelius and Gold Arms at its head with Gold Arm being home to one of the most extensive marine reserves in the inner fiords (Kahukura Marine Reserve) while other sections are included in the Taumoana Marine Reserve. Your captain and expedition leader will find a suitably sheltered anchorage for Heritage Explorer where activities could include kayaking or joining your expedition guides in a coastal exploration by Zodiac.

Day 6: Thompson and Doubtful Sounds

Location: Thompson Sound, Doubtful Sound

Accommodation Name: Heritage Explorer

Meals Included: Dinner

A short sail southwards brings us to the extensive sheltered waters of Thompson Sound, initially scouted for sheep farming suitability by early settlers in the 1850s and the location Secretary Island, an iconic site in New Zealand conservation history as one of the first large islands declared rat free in 1988. We then explore some of the most spectacular scenery in all of Fiordland – Doubtful Sound, or the 'sound of silence' as it’s also known. Spanning some staggering 40-kilometres and holding the title as New Zealand’s deepest fiord, Doubtful Sound with its cloud-scraping wilderness-cloaked mountains, sheer stone cliffs, waterfalls, inlets, quiet coves and wildlife presents nature on a scale so grand it’s off the chart. Photographic opportunities abound and our time spent here could include ship cruising Blanket Bay, the Shelter Islands, Pandora River, Deas Cove and Open Bay. Enjoy a farewell dinner with the team aboard Heritage Explorer.

Day 7: Doubtful Sound/Te Anau

Location: Doubtful Sound, Te Anau

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning we navigate to the very head of Doubtful Sound in Deep Cove home to several waterfalls including Helena and Lady Alice Falls. After a final breakfast and farewells, head ashore where a transfer to Te Anau, via the picturesque Wilmot Pass, the road constructed as part of the Manapouri hydro scheme, awaits. In case of unexpected delays, we ask you not to book any onward travel from Te Anau until after 3 pm this afternoon.

Ship Details

Heritage Explorer

Ship Overview

New Zealand-built expedition yacht Heritage Explorer joins Heritage Expedition's small ship fleet creating new opportunities of discovery around the shores of New Zealand. Setting a new standard for discovery travel in New Zealand, Heritage Explorer combines the ultimate in comfort with unique itineraries and a personalised experience with a maximum of just 18 guests on board.

Heritage Explorer is a 30-metre, 4-deck New Zealand flagged vessel built in 2004 by the renowned wooden boat building family Carey's Boatyard in Picton. It features a contemporary wood-finished interior, 10 well-appointed cabins across three decks, dining room boasting spectacular 180-degree panoramas and theatre capabilities; lounge and bar featuring a flight of inclusive regional New Zealand wines and beers; and a well-stocked local library.

Outside, guests can enjoy plenty of covered space on the Bridge Deck, perfect for wildlife spotting, sunrises and sunsets, or simply enjoying watch your voyage unfold. Kayaks and fishing equipment are available for use during the voyage, while two tenders allow for deeper exploration and the unforgettable wildlife encounters synonymous with all Heritage Expeditions adventures.

As with our other vessels, Heritage Explorer has an open bridge policy and a full commercial kitchen helmed by a talented chef focused on highlighting local produce and any guest catches of the day, as well as an enthusiastic and passionate expedition team, and will be shipped by a New Zealand captain and crew.

The expedition yacht features state-of-the-art technology to provide a comfortable expedition with high performance dual Scania 653 horsepower engines, bow thrusters, fin stabilisers, full air-conditioning, sound attenuated twin generators and a hydraulic aft ramp, while a comprehensive navigation package ensures the ultimate Kiwi adventure awaits all guests.

Accommodation Details

Royal: Located on the Bridge Deck, our Master Suite features a spacious bedroom with a queen-sized bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, mirror and washbasin, private en suite, personal climate control, TV, window and French doors opening out on to the covered Bridge Deck.

Salvin's: Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin's cabins have the option of either a double bed or two lower berths. Both feature ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, private en suite and a picture porthole.

Wandering: Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, private en suite and a porthole.

Buller's: Located on the Lower Deck, the Buller's cabin features one bunk (one upper and one lower berth), ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, private en suite and a porthole.

Ship Details

Ship Name:

Heritage Explorer

Cabins:

Expedition Staff & Crew:

Breadth:

7.8m

Cruising Speed:

10 knots

Length:

30m

Tenders:

Draft:

1.93m

Guests:

Gross Tonnage:

76.1gt

Engine:

653 horsepower

Vessel Type:

Expedition Yacht

Deck Plans

Deck Plan

Cabins

What's Included

Landing fees

Landing fees are included in the tour package.
Pre and post cruise coach transfers

Pre and post cruise coach transfers are included in the tour package.
House drinks and expert on board naturalist guides

House drinks and expert on board naturalist guides are included in the tour package.
Transport

The tour includes pre and post cruise coach transfers, allowing you to seamlessly travel to and from the expedition ship, Heritage Explorer, as you explore the stunning Fiordland region.
Shore excursions and activities

All shore excursions and activities are included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

All items of a personal nature

All items of a personal nature are not included in the tour package.
Laundry

Laundry services are not included in the tour package.
Domestic flights

Domestic flights are not included in the tour package.
Extensions and travel insurance

Extensions and travel insurance are not included in the tour package.

Mode of Transport

The tour includes pre and post cruise coach transfers, allowing you to seamlessly travel to and from the expedition ship, Heritage Explorer, as you explore the stunning Fiordland region.

Accommodation

Enjoy all on board ship accommodation with meals and all shore excursions and activities included, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience throughout your 7-day expedition cruise.

Check out our Q&As

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Northern Fiords Explorer tour?

During the Northern Fiords Explorer tour, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including albatross and seabirds while sailing the rich waters of the Fiordland Coast. The tour also explores areas where deep sea life can be viewed closer to the surface due to the unique brackish water environment. ...more ...less
What are some of the unique features of the fiords visited on this tour?

The tour visits several unique fiords including Bligh Sound with its crooked 'Z' shape, George Sound which is the longest of the Northern Fiords, and Nancy Sound known for its unusual leg shape. Doubtful Sound, New Zealand's deepest fiord, is also explored, offering breathtaking scenery with cloud-scraping mountains and numerous waterfalls. ...more ...less
Are there any historical sites included in the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a visit to Caswell Sound, which is home to the last physical remains of the 1949 New Zealand–American Fiordland scientific expedition. A primitive hut used during the study of the Wapiti/elk herd introduced earlier in the century can be found here.
What activities are available during the tour?

The tour offers a variety of activities including wildlife spotting with on board expedition naturalists, kayaking, and coastal exploration by Zodiac. There are also opportunities for nature walks and fishing, particularly in Caswell Sound where fishing is good for those interested in securing dinner. ...more ...less
What is included in the accommodation on the Heritage Explorer?

The accommodation on the Heritage Explorer includes all meals and all shore excursions and activities, ensuring a comfortable and immersive experience throughout the 7-day expedition cruise.

What fitness level is required?

Guests are required to have a reasonable level of fitness in order to participate in landings. While not strenuous, travellers who participate on excursions must be able to climb a ship-side gangway, get in and out of Zodiacs and be able to stand unaided. Each landing and excursion caters to all fitness levels ranging from easy to challenging, ultimately each guest is able to decide how active or relaxing their voyage is.
Is any clothing included?

Thermally-insulated Muck Boots are provided for use on all our Southern Ocean voyages while guests travelling to the Ross Sea are supplied with an Antarctic grade jacket during their time in Antarctica.
What policies are in place for Covid-19?

Please contact us for our latest Covid-19 policies
Is there a doctor on board?

Yes, on Heritage Adventurer there is an on board doctor with a small infirmary and on many voyages a First Responder will travel with guests on excursions. Heritage Explorer does not have a doctor on board, however our crew are trained in first aid.
Are drinks included?

Yes, house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner on all Heritage Expeditions voyages. Complimentary drinks can also be enjoyed during special events on board while bar purchases can also be charged to your stateroom.
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

Travelling with Heritage Expeditions is to travel responsibly. As biologists and ornithologists, we are intimately aware of the many issues that confront animals and their habitats, the world's oceans and isolated ethnic groups. We also take action: we actively contribute to the conservation of the places we visit in several ways; we 'buy local' and employ locally; we make sure that travellers are respectful of local customs and traditions; and we dispose of waste responsibly.
Is there a gym on board?

Yes, Heritage Adventurer has a gym, pool, sauna, Jacuzzi and Spa on Deck 7. While there is no gym on Heritage Explorer, guests have plenty of opportunity to stretch their legs on shore or take the kayaks out, weather permitting.
What is the onboard currency?

Heritage Adventurer operates in US$ while Heritage Explorer is NZ$.
Does a single supplement apply?

Heritage Adventurer has 20 dedicated single cabins (12 x Main Deck Single Staterooms on Deck 3 and 8 x Superior Single Staterooms on Deck 5). Heritage Adventurer also has the option of guests sharing in our Main Deck Triple (Deck 3) and Superior Triple (Deck 5) Staterooms. There may also be the option to share a Deck 4 or Deck 5 Superior Stateroom with another solo-travelling guest of the same gender. Heritage Explorer has 2 dedicated single cabins, Wandering, and if these are booked there may be availability to book a Salvin’s Twin/Double or Buller’s as a single at 1.8 times the published per person rate.
How long has the tour company been trading?

Heritage Expeditions was formed in 1985.
Is there Wi-Fi on board?

Yes, there is Wi-Fi available on both ships. Heritage Adventurer has a connection via satellite and vouchers can be purchased from reception. Wi-Fi is included on Heritage Explorer.
Are all excursions included?

Yes, all standard excursions are included in the voyage cost. All you will need to pay for on board is anything of a personal nature, laundry, drinks and gratuities.

Reviews of this operator

Heart In Diamond NZ (Google Reviewer)

The trip to the Southern...

15-Sep-2024

The trip to the Southern Fiords was truly the experience of a lifetime! My partner Chris and I were blown away by every moment. Tamzin and Lou, our expedition guides, were fantastic! Their passion and knowledge of the Fiordlands made the journey even more special. I had no idea of the rich European and Maori history in this area, and being able to witness it firsthand was incredible. The housekeeping team, Maia and Juanita, made sure we were always comfortable, and the meals were simply divine—fresh, delicious food at every turn. Jamie, our Captain, navigated with such finesse and kept us entertained with his great sense of humor. And Hamish, the engineer, worked tirelessly behind the scenes and even took on multiple roles, from first mate to zodiac driver. The whole experience was unforgettable, and I can’t thank the team enough for making it so extraordinary. Highly recommend! ...more ...less

Anne Carroll (Google Reviewer)

I’ve just returned to Canada...

06-Sep-2023

I’ve just returned to Canada after an absolutely stupendous trip to the Kimberley region of Western Australia aboard the Heritage Adventurer. Everything from booking the trip to exiting the ship on our last day was first class and run like a well-oiled machine. The guides were informed, interesting, interested, enthusiastic, friendly, and made us guests feel like we were part of the ship family. Every day I wondered how they could top the daily activities, and the next day was another mind-blowing experience. The daily recaps were well-presented and always so interesting. We always knew what was coming up next - everything was very well organized. The camaraderie amongst the guides was obvious and that translated into a truly remarkable experience for me and the many other guests I met and befriended on board. The ship crew were always smiling and quickly learned our names and preferences. To a person, they were delightful and couldn’t have done more to ensure a fabulous experience for all. Great staff, lovely ship and absolutely amazing daily experiences. Wildlife, stunning landscapes, ancient art sites, and guides who explain in detail what we are seeing whether it’s insects, birds, rocks, whales, crocodiles, plants, fish and so much more. I came away with a much deeper appreciation for nature and how we humans are affected by and have an effect on nature. The cruise was ten days, but it felt like I had a month worth of experiences. I’d jump at the chance to explore any place with this company. I’m now hooked on the small ship cruise experience! Thank you Heritage Expeditions! ...more ...less

Sally Adams

In the Wake of Scott & Shackleton: Ross Sea Antarctica “A Fantastic Voyage!”

01-Mar-2023

It was a fantastic voyage! The weather was amazing, the ship was stable, all the staff were terrific, the lectures were really interesting the food was excellent & I met many wonderful fellow travellers, some of whom I am keeping in touch with. And now I am belatedly reading a book about the Antarctic explorers it means a lot more, having been to the area, seen the huts etc. So thank you very much for a memorable experience. ...more ...less

Heritage Expeditions Customer

Shirley Turner (Google Reviewer)

A Wild, Wonderful 10 Days...

23-Oct-2024

A Wild, Wonderful 10 Days in Fiordland. We had everything from high winds, high seas, heavy rain and hail mixed with sunshine, calm seas, rainbows and sunsets. The sounds and fiords with their huge mountains covered in ancient trees and bush are stunning, made even more magical with the rivers and many waterfalls. The wildlife that joined us on our adventure were penguins, dolphins and seals which were a treat to see. The many ocean going birds of Albatross and Petrel loved the conditions and escorted us on our ocean passages. Along the way we learnt the history of this amazing area. Pre European, Captain Cook and NZs first conservationist, Richard Henry. Ship wrecks, whaling, mining, sealers, lighthouses and power stations all contributed to this remote part of NZ which once had busy towns full of people. Who would have known that NZs first European house and ship were built here in Fiordland. A huge thank you goes out to our fantastic crew of Steve, Hamish, Glenda, Genevieve, Sebastian and Maia who made this a truly wonderful trip. ...more ...less

Emily P

The Best of New Zealand: An Intimate Exploration Cruise of New Zealand's Islands “One of the greatest experiences of my life!”

01-Mar-2023

“The expedition was one of the greatest experiences of my life. We journeyed to many incredible parts of Aotearoa that I wouldn't have otherwise sailed to, hiked, or photographed. I loved how the daily itinerary responded to the weather conditions and different abilities so that we could all have a meaningful time in each place. The vessel is stunning and the crew took excellent care of us, as did the expedition team. Getting to know them and our fellow adventurers was a special part of the trip. It still feels like a dream!” ...more ...less

Heritage Expeditions Customer

Graham Barrie (Google Reviewer)

Have just booked a trip...

28-May-2021

Have just booked a trip later in the year and the service I had with the staff and Emma in particular has been wonderful. Thank you 😊

Lorraine Knowles (Google Reviewer)

Our trip on Hertiage Explorer...

10-Oct-2022

Our trip on Hertiage Explorer to the Southern Fiords was awesome. There was not one aspect that we could fault. The food, crew, expeditions ashore, fellow passengers and the knowledge of our guides was A+. We will definately book with you again - 2024 around the Bay of Islands. ...more ...less

Pat Hutchison (Google Reviewer)

I just returned home from...

26-Jun-2024

I just returned home from the Sacred Japan trip, I highly recommend this expedition, everything was first class, the meals, the staff, the expedition guides and lecturers. We enjoyed amazing excursions at each port. I met many fellow passengers and enjoyed their company in the evenings. It was a wonderful experience and a great way to visit Japan. ...more ...less

Kita Williams

Galapagos of the Southern Ocean: New Zealand and Australia's Subantarctic Islands “This was a Fantastic Trip - I Enjoyed Every Moment”

01-Mar-2023

This was a fantastic trip! From the glorious king penguins, to the sweet young elephant seal pups with their huge eyes, to the breathtakingly beautiful albatrosses on Campbell Island, and the colourful megaherbs, I enjoyed every moment. The sub-Antarctic islands are all very different, with unique landscapes and characteristics that were wonderful to experience. It was great to watch the lectures on board the ship, and our guides were very knowledgeable, helpful, fun and organised. We were so spoiled with the delicious meals and almost endless choices on board as well! The ship became a very cozy, familiar place and I enjoyed meeting some wonderful guests and exploring or cruising around in Zodiacs together. This trip really was a photographer's paradise, the wildlife and landscapes were incredible. Thank you Heritage Expeditions, I hope to join you again in the future! ...more ...less

Heritage Expeditions Customer

Chris Verstappen (Google Reviewer)

A travel company that makes...

04-Oct-2017

A travel company that makes expedition cruising available to remote places on earth. I had the opportunity to go on a trip to the South Pacific in April 2017. A truly remarkable and well organized expedition and for sure a company I will come back to for more of their trips. ...more ...less

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Saturday

Jul 26, 2026 - Aug 01, 2026

$4145 (USD)

Book with Confidence

Low Deposit

Heritage Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
Cancellation Policy

We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of heritage expeditions charges.

Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.