Preservation Inlet Discovery Expeditions

We helicoptered into Preservation inlet - a stunning 30 minute chopper flight - then 6 days on the Milford Wanderer, the history, botany, scenery and activities were first class- great lectures at night - far too much great food - the two 3 hour sailings out to sea were an exciting experience.

We had to book this trip over a year ago and it was well worth the wait. The scenery was stunning, the crew were wonderful, the food was amazing and the cabin was cosy and warm. We wanted for nothing and spent our time gazing at the views, walking with a very knowledgeable guide, chatting with new friends and taking numerous photographs. We saw kaka, kakariki, robins, dolphins, seals, penguins and albatross. We were so tired at night, that we went to bed at 9 and awoke fresh at 7 for breakfast. We even had the chance to swim! It was expensive, we saved for a year, but it was worth every cent and we helped a conservation project with our payment. We had the best time and thank all the crew for their excellent, hard work. One piece of advice, take sea sickness tablets for the sea journeys and try to stay outside in the fresh air! The first crossing was the worst, after that, it was a breeze. Our lovely Hannah brought us hot water bottles even though she was suffering herself. Caring, everyone of them.

The week long cruise with Real Journeys called Preservation Inlet Discovery Expedition was the very best of small tour cruising. The crew go above and beyond what you would expect to ensure everyone has a fantastic time. The meals were excellent, the side tours from the boat catered for all passengers and we saw some wonderful parts of New Zealand and learnt such a lot about NZ's early history in the deep south. Teas and coffees were available at any time so not a shop as such, a good library covering a huge range of topics about the area we were in, all the crew were so knowledgeable and helpful, interesting after dinner talks and pictures. This trip was definitely a highlight of 2017, and we would recommend it to other 50+ couples and singles.

I am full of praise for this journey of a lifetime I shared with 32 like minded New Zealanders. A very special part of NZ historically and conservation wise and added to that is the sheer beauty. The staff treated us royally. Food delicious. Talks hugely informative. Accommodation really comfortable. Walks long and short great. Feeling hugely privileged to have been there.

In August 2016 we did the 6 night discovery expedition with Real Journeys to Preservation Inlet. The trip began with a helicopter trip over the snow covered southern alps - amazing scenery! Captain Cook spent 5 weeks in the Preservation Inlet area so there is lots of history to explore and lots of tramping/hiking to do. The hike to Puysegaur Point lighthouse is a must do - it must be the most isolated lighthouse in New Zealand. I was up to the top of my gum boots in mud twice on that walk and it was still awesome. Kayaking from the boat was also a highlight of the trip. The boat takes 32 passengers, and 6 crew. The crew is amazing, the food is amazing. There are seals, penguins and dolphins. Get in shape, pack your gummies and go. We enjoyed it so much that in July 2017 we did the 5 night Stewart Island discovery expedition.

Real Journeys 7 day Preservation Inlet Discovery Expedition exceeded our expectations, the crew were outstanding their enthusiasm and knowledge was exceptional. It was interesting to learn the history associated with the area and experience the mystical landscape whilst studying the Flora and Fauna. Highly recommended well worth the two year wait. Book it now!!!

Can't rate this highly enough if there was an option to give six I would. Just come back from a magical seven day cruise from preservation inlet to doubtful sound. The ship and the crew are unbelievable add to your bucket list and go.

From the moment we left Queenstown with Real Journeys we knew that we were in good hands, this company is very professional and certainly know how to look after their clients. We helicoptered in to meet the Milford Wanderer and our 7 day voyage started at Preservation Inlet .The vessel gave us a very comfortable home for our voyage The crew - Chris (Skipper) Felix (no 2) Stefan (Cook) Richard (our guide)Mike (Tender Skipper) and Annette( that looked after us so well) were fantastic .We traveled the fiords and what a special place this is with the surrounding hills and calm seas . Blue cod and crayfish what more could one want..... A great week ,thanks Milford Wanderer

We left Te Anau driving to Manapouri in our own cars though there is a free bus provided. We were ferried across the lake, taken by helicopter to the small landing stage on a barge then taken by tender to join the Milford wanderer. For seven days we cruised our southern fjords. The historical stories told so ably by Chris brought an amazing dimension to the beautiful places we visited. Each day brought new adventures off the boat as we explored the area and our chef, John, supplied us with tasty interesting meals and snacks. Our party of 12 were all thrilled with the whole experience. We did two, three hour open sea trips between Sounds. The sea was fairly wild but we were warned and it was suggested we took sea sickness meds. I found this part of the trip exhilarating as Miriam threw out food for the many species of albatrosses who flocked around. We saw a couple of royal albatrosses amongst them. Safety was paramount and three of the five staff members had skippers tickets. It was a thrill to visit predator free islands and see the difference in the state of the bush. I loved every minute of this opportunity to see more of our magnificent country. Thankyou "Real Journeys"

This is a 7 day, 6 night adventure for the reasonably fit person who loves to learn about New Zealand History, flora and fauna, wildlife, enjoys water sports, (Kayaking and fishing) or just taking in the magical vistas of New Zealands Southern Most Fiords of Preservation Inlet, Dusky Sound, Chalky Inlet (if weather permits), and Doubtful Sound while being treated like Kings and Queens. Six wonderful staff look after your every need, including dietary needs. You are taken to incredible bays and inlets to go for walks or tramps and to view all manner of interesting things including wildlife. Our first sea voyage was a bit rough!, but all passengers were well looked after and seeing the amazing Albatrosses sweeping all around the vessel - Wow! A magical trip, from the helicopter flight from West Arm Manapouri to Preservation Inlet, to the final farewells on the Wharf at Manapouri. Absolutely incredible experience.