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The countries (and states) with some of the most dramatic fiords in the world are Norway, Greenland, Chile, Alaska, and New Zealand. New Zealand's stunning fiords are often compared to Norway, although they are very different. All of New Zealand's true fiords are found in the massive Fiordland National Park in the southwest of the South Island. And there is only sealed road access to one fiord - Milford Sound.
But it is possible to access some of the other fiords as well; there are regular day tours over alpine lakes to Doubtful Sound, and it is possible to take a challenging four-day hike to George Sound. Another of the remote but accessible fiords that few ever get to see is Dusky Sound.
Why The Remote Dusky Sound Is Worth Visiting
Dusky Sound (called Tamatea in Maori) is one of the most complex fiords in Fiordland. It is the largest fiord in New Zealand, extending for 40 kilometers and reaching a maximum width of 8 kilometers.
- Length: 40 Kilometers Or 25 Miles
- Max Width: 8 Kilometers Or 5 Miles
The fiord has a number of islands, most notably Resolution Island - in fact, there are over 350 islands to be found. Like other fiords in New Zealand, it has sheer vertical-sided walls with the mountains rising dramatically out of the water.
This region of New Zealand is one of the wettest places on earth. Come when it rains, and it's possible to see hundreds of waterfalls cascading into the fiord. Dusky Sound also has a number of covers and connects with other fiords. It is home to Fiordland penguins, seals, dolphins, and whales.
Dusky Sound is very remote, and there is no road connection to it. There was an attempt to build a road to it in 1903, but the project was never completed. The only way to get there is by hiking the Dusky Track, sailing around the coast, or by airplane/helicopter.
Dusky Sound Discovery Expeditions - The Ultimate New Zealand Fiord Trip
It is quite an expedition to get to Dusky Sound. RealNZ offers a selection of expeditions to this remote fiord where people can explore the piece and quiet of the fiord far from the crowds of Milford Sound and, to a lesser degree Doubtful Sound. Their 5-day Dusky Sound Discovery Expedition includes Doubtful Sound, Dusky Sound, and Breaksea Sound. The expedition is abroad on the purpose-built Milford Wanderer. The trip includes an onboard nature guide, full facilities, and full catering.
The Milford Wanderer has been designed along the lines of a traditional sailing scow with old-world charm but modern facilities. The passenger capacity of the vessel is 32, and it has twin share compartments.
The tour has activities like guided walks through the Fiordland rainforest, visits to historic sites, abandoned settlement tours, kayaks, and more. The weather in Fiordland is very temperamental and so the exact itineraries of each day depending on the weather conditions and the judgment of the crew.
Getting To Dusky Sound & What To Expect
The expedition starts from the RealNZ Visitor Centre on the shores of Lake Manapouri - one of New Zealand's most underrated lakes (about three hours from New Zealand's adventure capital Queenstown). New Zealand is home to some of the world's most spectacular alpine lakes. It then heads out across the lake, following the arms of the lake deep into Fiordland National Park.
- Cost: NZ$3,800 – NZ$7,030 (USD$2,4,60 - USD$4,500)
From Manapouri, visitors can choose between helicoptering in and out or just taking the helicopter one way. The most adventurous way to get there is to not take the helicopter ride but take the cruise across Lake Manapouri and then the coach over the stunning Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove on Doubtful Sound. From there, board the Milford Wanderer and sail out of Doubtful Sound around the coast to Breaksea Sound.
These expeditions are only held periodically, and places are limited and tend to sell out - so be sure to plan ahead. For scheduled dates, refer to their website.
Hiking To Dusky Sound
It is possible to hike to Dusky Sound from either Lake Hauroko or Lake Manapouri (water taxis need to be taken to access the trail). Along the way, hikers see huge pristine lakes, gushing rivers, rainforested valleys, plenty of mud, and lots of sandflies.
- Duration: 8 to 10 Days
- Difficulty: Very Difficult
- Length: 84 Kilometers or 52 Miles One Way
The Dusky Track is a difficult hiking track only for experienced and well-equipped hikers. They need to carry all their food and equipment, cross three major valley systems and two mountain ranges, deal with mud, lots of rain, and some 8 to 10 days of advanced hiking. The length of the trail is 84 kilometers or 52 miles one way.