Our Responsibility
We've called Fiordland home for over 25 years. That comes with a responsibility — to the environment, to the wildlife, and to the communities who depend on this extraordinary place.
Community & Conservation
Since taking over Fiordland Expeditions in March 2004, we've been proud to support our local community in a variety of ways. From sponsoring sports clubs and school teams to contributing to local events like fishing competitions and golf tournaments, giving back has always been part of what we do.
Today, our support extends even further — including scientific research, educational initiatives, and projects that preserve and share Fiordland's rich history through documentaries and historical programmes.
Donate to Our Conservation EffortsResearch & Collaboration
At Fiordland Expeditions, we partner with leading scientists to explore and protect the region's delicate ecosystem. Our collaborative research efforts aim to ensure the sustainability of Fiordland's unique flora and fauna for future generations.
We are committed to collaborating for a sustainable future in Fiordland — engaging with experts to safeguard our natural heritage and passionately preserving Fiordland's ecological treasures.
Fiordland Expeditions are pleased to be assisting The Tawaki Project with their research learning about the habitat and populations of the Fiordland Crested Penguin — known in Māori as Tawaki. Found in Fiordland, situated in the very southwest corner of New Zealand's South Island, these birds are one of the least studied penguin species on the planet.
In 2019, we partnered with The Tawaki Project, studying these remarkable birds' habits, habitats, and personalities. Over the past several seasons, we have been providing MV Tutoko as a base to work from — reaching remote areas in harsher conditions than was previously possible.
This year, the project expands into the southern fiords, reaching Dusky Sound, to better understand population distribution and the threats they face from climate change and predators.
The things we are learning are giving a far better understanding of these incredible creatures, their habitats and their behaviours — all invaluable information to ensure the right protections are in place as the changing climate takes effect.
Join the Effort
If you'd like to help our conservation efforts, we're always accepting donations towards our trusted scientists and partners. Every contribution directly supports field research in Fiordland's most remote corners. For more information on what your donation might be able to do, please get in touch.
Stay in the Know
Be the first to hear about new cruises, conservation news, and Tawaki Project updates. We respect your privacy and will never share your information.
Life on the Water
The lake crossing to reach Deep Cove is rarely the same twice. Fiordland weather is part of the experience.
1,200-metre walls of rock and rainforest rising directly from black water. A scale that takes time to process.
The Fiordland Crested Penguin — one of New Zealand's rarest birds. Sighted July to November from the rainforest edge.
Fiordland weather is dramatic and changeable. When it clears — and it always does — the light is extraordinary.
One of Doubtful's remote inner arms. Anchor here overnight and the fiord is entirely yours.
40 kilometres long. 421 metres deep. Fiordland Expeditions has been exploring it since 1998.
From Those Who've Been
"We also did Milford Sound and this was much better. Not because Milford isn't incredible — it is. But Doubtful got under our skin in a way that's hard to explain."
"The crew made us feel like we had the whole fiord to ourselves — because essentially, we did. No lining up for a photo spot. No announcements over a speaker. Just the sound of the water."
"This was an unforgettable adventure. From hundreds of roaring waterfalls to dolphins, penguins and seals. If you are questioning this experience, don't — just book it."