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The breathtaking Expedition Cruise of the New Zealand Coast on the 10 Day Ultimate Fiordland Experience Cruise
With a maximum of 18 guests, we invite you to join us on the ultimate 10-day exploration of New Zealand’s world famous remote ice-carved mountains, verdant forests and winding fiords of Fiordland. This treasured natural wonderland, its wildlife, conservation and history inspired our dream for responsible travel.
Established in 1952, Fiordland National Park is now over 1.2 million hectares in size and rightly famous for its epic, grand scale scenery, untamed wilderness and unique wildlife including Bottlenose Dolphins, Fiordland Crested Penguins and New Zealand Fur Seals. However, Fiordland is also rich in natural history, geology and the location of some historical firsts and important restoration and conservation projects.
Māori legend describes how demi-god Tu-te-raki-whanoa carved out the region’s fiords with his adze, Te Hamo, from rock walls to create the fiords we know today. Captain Cook and his crew were the first Europeans to visit, landing here aboard HMS Resolution in 1773 and subsequently spending five weeks in Dusky Sound. Cook’s records of his discovery and maps would attract sealers and whalers not long after, who would go on to form the first European settlements here. Historically this region is very important, and shaped the future of New Zealand.
The majority of Fiordland’s sounds are only accessible by sea, making them among the most remote areas of New Zealand’s mainland ensuring their epic beauty remains unspoiled and historic sites undisturbed. Waterfalls, streams, rivers and fiords are enveloped with misty veils that come and go, revealing steep gradients of mountain peaks and sheltered valleys. Join us as we sail the waters of Fiordland in solitude exploring some of the most unique and wild parts of Fiordland on this unforgettable adventure.
NOTE: Our HX260116 voyage is 12 days with an extra day in Dusky Sound and an additional day exploring Bligh Sound.
22 Mar 2026 SOLD OUT
1 Apr 2026 SOLD OUT
16 Jul 2026 SOLD OUT
31 Aug 2026 SOLD OUT
10 Sep 2026 SOLD OUT
16 Jan 2027
14 Mar 2027
23 Mar 2027
16 Jul 2027
31 Aug 2027
10 Sep 2027
Route: Te Anau – Preservation Inlet → Milford Sound – Te Anau
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Buller’s | $8,585 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
 | Salvin’s Twin | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Waitlisted |
 | Salvin’s Double | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
 | Wandering | $10,075 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. Only for Single person. | Available |
 | Royal | $12,950 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Waitlisted |
Heritage Explorer – The Ultimate Fiordland Experience
Route: Te Anau – Preservation Inlet → Milford Sound – Te Anau
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buller’s | $8,585 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Salvin’s Double | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Twin | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Wandering | $10,075 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Royal | $12,950 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Waitlisted |
Heritage Explorer – The Ultimate Fiordland Experience
Route: Te Anau – Milford Sound → Preservation Inlet – Te Anau
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buller’s | $8,585 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Twin | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Double | $9,595 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Wandering | $10,075 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Royal | $12,950 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Waitlisted |
Heritage Explorer – The Ultimate Fiordland Experience
Route: Te Anau – Preservation Inlet → Milford Sound – Te Anau
Special Offer: 20% off selected cabins
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buller’s | $6,868 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Twin | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Double | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Wandering | $8,060 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
| Royal | $10,360 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Available |
Heritage Explorer – The Ultimate Fiordland Experience
Route: Te Anau – Preservation Inlet → Milford Sound – Te Anau
Special Offer: 20% off selected cabins
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buller’s | $6,868 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Double | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Twin | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Wandering | $8,060 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Royal | $10,360 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Available |
Heritage Explorer – The Ultimate Fiordland Experience
Route: Te Anau – Milford Sound → Preservation Inlet – Te Anau
Special Offer: 20% off selected cabins
| Cabin Category | Price Per Person | Description | Availability | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buller’s | $6,868 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Available |
| Salvin’s Twin | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Twin cabins feature two lower berths, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Salvin’s Double | $7,676 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Salvin’s Double cabins feature a double bed, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a picture porthole. | Available |
| Wandering | $8,060 AUD | Located on the Lower Deck, Wandering cabins feature one lower single berth, ample storage with wardrobe and drawers, TV, PABX satellite telephone, private en suite and a porthole. | Waitlisted |
| Royal | $10,360 AUD | 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, PABX satellite telephone, window and French doors opening out onto the covered Bridge Deck. | Waitlisted |
Make your way to the designated meeting point in Te Anau then take in the grand views and awe-inspiring scenery as you enjoy a spectacular helicopter transfer to join Heritage Explorer in Preservation Inlet (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 before we set sail along Long Sound and enjoy your first impressions of Southern Fiordland’s unrestrained landscape.
***Note: Some voyages will operate the itinerary in reverse.***
Today is dedicated to exploring Preservation Inlet, rich in history we will delve into the gold mining and forestry attempts that once made this now quiet waterway a bustling hub of activity. The area’s natural bounty saw more than 2,500 gold miners and saw millers flock to the region in the late 1890s, this early settler history at mining towns Cromarty and Te Oneroa, now reclaimed by nature, can still be observed, none more spectacularly than at the failed Tarawera Mine and Smelter, where the ruins of the smelter’s historic three-storey chimney were restored in 2015.
Among the activity, Preservation Inlet can also lay claim to having New Zealand’s first whaling station at Cuttle Cove and the location of one of the country’s most remote lighthouses at Puysegur Point, which began operation in 1879 perched some 40-feet above the South Island’s south-western most point. Here a great coastal walk, formerly a telegraph track built to connect the lighthouse, leads to the old landing shed at Otago Retreat.
The entrance to Chalky Inlet is guarded by the impressive limestone cliffs of Chalky Island, the inspiration behind Captain Cook’s naming of the fiord. One of several important predator-free islands in the inlet including Great Island and Passage Islands, Chalky Island is home to some of New Zealand’s most critically endangered bird species including the Little Spotted Kiwi and Kākāpō, and endemic Te Kakahu Skink, discovered in 2002.
The protected harbours at North and South Port offer much to explore as the centres of human history in the inlet. North Port is the final resting place of the rusting hulk of purposely grounded GSS Stella, while South Port reveals an industrial past with the remnants of once prolific sawmilling activity. Sailing to the head of the fiord the surrounding mountains envelop us with their majesty.
Our expedition cruise through Dusky Sound visits some of the most significant historical and conservation sites in New Zealand as well as some of the most majestic scenery as we sail deep into the heart of Fiordland. Predator-free Anchor Island homes half of the world’s population of Kākāpō and Little Spotted Kiwi and is also the location of historic Luncheon Cove and several New Zealand firsts including New Zealand’s first sealing gang, the building of New Zealand’s first European homestead and first European designed ship, the 16-metre Providence built here and launched in 1795. On nearby Pigeon Island learn the history of Richard Henry and his pioneering live transfer of birds to island refuges – an international first in wildlife conservation. While his attempts were unsuccessful due to stoats swimming over to the island, it is heartening to learn the island is now pest-free and a sanctuary for native birdlife, with Henry’s vision fulfilled.
A navigation through Acheron Passage, which separates Resolution Island from the mainland, is sure to be one of the highlights of our time in Fiordland. This iconic scenic waterway is an area where Bottlenose Dolphins are often spotted. Our explorations here may include venturing into Wet Jacket Arm where the crew of Cook’s HMS Resolution ended up with wet jackets during their survey work. It is also the sight where moose were released, and last seen, in New Zealand. The extensive sheltered waters of scenic Breaksea Sound, initially scouted for sheep farming suitability by early setters in the 1850s is also the location of Breaksea Island, an iconic site in New Zealand conservation history as one of the first large islands declared rat-free in 1988.
Experience 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.
One of the southern-most of the northern fiords, Charles Sound, 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. 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.
Today we plan to 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 the 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 US President Theodore Roosevelt.
We enter the magnificent Milford Sound this afternoon and enjoy a leisurely final cruise of this unforgettable location. Enjoy your final night aboard in the protected waters beneath the towering peaks of Milford Sound and revel in the sensational scenery as you celebrate this unforgettable adventure with a farewell dinner.
After a final breakfast and farewells, head ashore where a transfer to Te Anau, via the historic Homer Tunnel and the lowland beech forests and golden tussocks of scenic Eglinton Valley, awaits. In case of unexpected delays, we ask you not to book any onward travel from Te Anau until after 3 pm this afternoon.
Note: Some voyages will operate the itinerary in reverse During our voyage, circumstances may make it necessary or desirable to deviate from the proposed itinerary. This can include poor weather and opportunities for making unplanned excursions. Your Expedition Leader will keep you fully informed.
Voyages are planned and scheduled pending final regulatory approval.
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.
“Once in a lifetime experience!”
“Once in a lifetime experience. 12 days allowed us to see all the Sounds and with fine weather it was very enjoyable. Skipper Dave and his crew looked after us admirably. The meals were first class and the accommodation “cozy”, which was to be expected on a vessel this size and it was impeccably maintained by the crew. I very much enjoyed the interactions with Tamzin, Gen and the rest of the crew.”
Ron (Edward) Horner
“One of the best trips we have ever taken!”
“The scenery was stunning! Everywhere we looked, any time of day, no matter the weather, we saw stunning scenery – towering snow-capped mountains, lush green forests, spectacular waterfalls and gorgeous ocean water, sometimes like a glassy millpond, often sparkling and always clear and clean. I have so many fantastic photos to remember the best Fiordland landscapes ever. The crew were all extremely competent and knowledgeable, always super friendly and courteous; it was clear they all loved their jobs and nothing was too much trouble. They made our trip perfectly comfortable and our every need was met with such enthusiasm and a smile. We felt so looked after: our comfort and safety were paramount, plenty of delicious food and drink, adventure and relaxation. Our shore excursions were exciting and lots of fun. The guides kept us informed and were passionate about the history and natural environment we encountered. The chef was exceptionally skilled and every meal was a delightful experience. All the crew were so attentive and accommodating and worked hard to keep us sailing smoothly. We appreciated their endeavours to ensure the weather didn’t spoil our experience. My husband and I will remember our cruise through the fiords as one of the best trips we have ever taken and recommend Heritage Expeditions as a top quality travel organisation and the Fiordlands of New Zealand as a very special destination. Thank you!”
Teresa Clark
“An experience not to be missed!”
“For anyone who has a love of the natural world, this trip is an experience not to be missed. The natural beauty of New Zealand’s Fiordland is breathtaking. Add to that the well researched and presented commentary about the wildlife, birds, pest eradication and history and you have the total package. But there’s more. The staff on our trip were amazing from the captain, Steve, to Caroline. They all went above and beyond to make our trip as pleasant, informative and comfortable as possible. And of course we were all spoiled by Seb’s culinary skills for the entire trip.”
B Macfarlane
“Thanks again for a wonderful experience!”
“This was an amazing trip. We had wonderful staff, and appreciated the way they all worked together and helped out without worrying about demarcation. Special thanks to Lyn, Dave, Gen, Exe, Bere and Marty! The food was amazing – thanks Exe and Bere – and the briefings and reviews were excellent with Lyn’s helpful sayings of the day. Appreciated Gen’s talks on sandflies, and fungi, and hope she’ll move on to snails and earthworms soon! Thanks to Marty for giving us a rundown on the engine room, and to Dave, for making the bridge available, for doing dishes, skippering the Zodiacs and helping people while making sensible decisions about the route and the weather. The helicopter transfer out gave us amazing views of the mountains above Dusky Sound and Manapouri. We enjoyed the dolphins and seals, and seabirds. We were surprised at the lack of bird life on land, compared to Stewart Island or Westland – effect of stoats? Overall, thanks again for a wonderful experience.”
W&P Pattemore
