Exploring Doubtful Sound:
A Scenic Escape with RealNZ

Tucked away in the heart of Fiordland, Doubtful Sound offers a journey like no other—especially when you’re lucky enough to experience it on an overnight cruise.

I recently embarked on this magical adventure with RealNZ, and while the weather looked gloomy at first, nature had some pleasant surprises in store for me.

Nicolas Jægergaard

Day 1: Setting Sail into the Clouds

As we set off midday, the skies were heavy with clouds, and a light rain accompanied us. At first, I wasn’t too hopeful about the weather, but as the afternoon progressed, the rain eased, and slowly, the light began to change. By sunset, the clouds parted just enough to let the sun paint the sky with stunning hues of orange and gold. It was a perfect end to what began as a grey day.

The private cabin was waiting – cozy with a personal bathroom, giving me all the comfort needed for the night. There was something so special about retreating to this peaceful space after a day spent in nature, especially knowing that the adventure wasn’t over yet.

Kayaking between mountatins
One of the highlights of the trip was kayaking through the calm waters of Doubtful Sound. It was both serene and exciting, offering me a chance to fully immerse myself in the vastness of the Fiord. Feeling adventurous, I even took a quick (and cold!) dip in the water—a brisk experience I won’t soon forget.

Dinner on the Water
As the sun set and the air chilled, I returned to the vessel for a delightful dinner. The dining experience exceeded my expectations, offering a variety of delicious dishes that catered to every palate. Sharing a meal with fellow passengers while surrounded by Fiordland’s beauty was an unforgettable part of the evening.

Day 2: A Clear Sky and Sunrise

The next morning, I woke up to a clear sky and one of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever seen. The stillness of the water, combined with the crisp air and a sky painted with the soft hues of dawn, made it a truly magical moment. Despite the near-freezing temperatures, it was impossible to stay indoors. I spent the morning soaking in the scenery, savoring the last moments of the trip.

Later, the calm of the water was broken by the playful energy of two bottlenose dolphins. At first, they swam gently beside the vessel, but as we sailed further, they burst into action, jumping and playing right alongside us. It was such a joy to witness, and I managed to capture both photos and videos of these magnificent creatures.

The Crew: A Wealth of Knowledge
The atmosphere on the vessel was warm and welcoming, largely thanks to the incredible crew. One crew member, in particular, shared fascinating details about Doubtful Sound (which, as I learned, is actually a Fiord!). His knowledge and passion added so much depth to the experience, making me appreciate this unique environment even more.

Wrapping Up an Unforgettable Journey

My Doubtful Sound overnight cruise was truly an experience I’ll never forget — from the stunning landscapes and playful dolphins to the serene kayaking moments. If you’re looking for a peaceful escape into nature, I highly recommend this trip with RealNZ.

Want to see more from my adventures? Follow me on Instagram @nicolasjaegergaard for travel inspiration, behind-the-scenes photos, and exclusive updates from my latest trips. And if you’re ready to book your own adventure, check out RealNZ to start planning!