Doubtful Sound, Fiordland, New Zealand

Blue sky. No wind. Endless vistas. Dry. Nary a cloud. Perfect reflections. Albatross and penguins????? These are not usually words used to describe the same place, but today in Fiordland National Park of New Zealand it certainly was the case. In an area that averages 23 feet of rain a year and is located in the “roaring forties” today was a very special day. Our day was spent exploring the marvels of Doubtful Sound and the surrounding ocean.

Fiordland Crested Penguins swimming under a towering waterfall. Getting sunburned on the bow while cruising below remnant patches of ice that long ago carved the fjords we sail through. Listening to Bellbirds singing from the lush, never-been-touched forest made of green of every color. New Zealand fur seals lounging in the sun on a rock covered with kelp looking like medusa’s hair. Albatross of five species reflecting back in the mirrored seas as they pass within meters of the bow. These are just a few of our experiences today sailing amongst the fiords of New Zealand. I wouldn’t have wanted to be anywhere else.