What's Happening

Real Journeys is transferring an extra vessel to Doubtful Sound to create additional cruising capacity for visitors who are unable to access Milford Sound due to road closures this month.

The Milford Road is currently closed because of avalanche debris on the road. Forecasters have predicted there will be more road closures over the next month due to avalanche activity in the area.

"For many visitors, visiting Fiordland is a highlight of their trip to New Zealand," International Sales Manager Tony McQuilkin said. "Whenever the Milford Road closes, we get a surge in demand for Doubtful Sound cruises."

Real Journeys’ Milford Sound overnight cruise vessel Milford Mariner is making the voyage to Doubtful Sound today. The Milford Mariner will provide a two-hour inner fiord cruise and overnight cruises as required during August, supplementing the day cruises currently provided on the company’s high-speed catamaran Patea Explorer.

"It’s the first time we’ve ever done this, but it makes sense - it means we can open up extra capacity in Doubtful Sound quickly and efficiently, and our visitors will still get to cruise in an incredible part of Fiordland," Mr McQuilkin said.

For further comment, please contact:

Tony McQuilkin
Real Journeys GM - International Sales
Phone 03 442 4827
Email tmcquilkin@realjourneys.co.nz