milford wanderer 7 day cruise

• South Island Self Drive
• North Island Self Drive
• Both Islands Self Drive
• Lord of the Rings Self Drive
• Motorhome Rental Packages
• Self Drive Walking Holidays
• Terms and Conditions
• Ski and Snow Tours
• Adventure Tours
• Hiking Tours
• Kayaking and Canoeing
• Rafting Tours
• Cave Adventures
• Fishing Charters
• Horse Trekking Tours
• Surfing Holidays
• Great Walks
• North Island Guided Walks
• South Island Guided Walks
• Kiwi Style Hiking
• Independent Walks
• Grades and Fitness
• Bay of Islands
• Coromandel Peninsula
• Christchurch
• Fox Glacier
• Franz Josef
• Hanmer Springs
• Holiday Parks/Powered Motorhome Sites
• Auckland International Airport
• Hamilton Airport
• Napier Airport
• New Plymouth Airport
• Palmerston North Airport
• Tauranga Airport
• Wellington Airport
• Blenheim Airport
• Christchurch Airport
• Invercargill Airport
• Nelson Airport
• Picton Ferry Terminal
• Escorted Coach and Rail Tours
• Independent Coach Tours
• Private Tours
• Train and Rail Journeys
• Cruise Ship Excursions
• Discovery Cruises
• Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruises
• Milford Sound Overnight Cruises
• Hauraki Gulf Overnight Cruise
• North Island
• South Island
• Lord of the Rings/Hobbit Day Tours
• Adventure Day Tours
• Food and Wine
• Maori Culture Day Tours
• Photography Tours
• Cycling Holidays
• Hiking Holidays
• Horse Riding Holidays
• Self Drive Holidays
• Snow and Ski Holidays
• Motorhome Rental
• Airport Shuttles
• New Zealand Train Journeys
• Auckland New Zealand
• Bay of Plenty
• The Coromandel
• Tongariro National Park
• Waitomo Caves
• Fiordland National Park
• Franz Josef Glacier
• Marlborough
• Mt Cook - Aoraki
• Stewart Island
• Or maybe you'd like to:
• View Sitemap
• Contact Go NZ

7 Day Preservation Inlet Discovery Cruise

Pricing From $4750

Set sail on an unparalleled journey with us, exploring five of New Zealand’s most remote and majestic fiords: Chalky and Preservation Inlets , alongside the breathtaking Doubtful , Dusky , and Breaksea Sounds . These southern sanctuaries are gateways to a world of untouched beauty, where wind-swept coastlines and expansive beaches unfold into histories of early whalers and miners who once sought to harness this wild landscape. Now, only remnants of their endeavours linger, inviting you to experience the profound solitude and awe-inspiring wilderness of these storied waters.

Aboard the specially designed Milford Wanderer, follow in the wake of Captain Cook's historic 1773 expedition in search of the fabled Terra Australis. This voyage offers not just a passage through time but an intimate engagement with the region’s rich natural tapestry. Land on pristine beaches, navigate the intricate coastlines by tender craft and kayak, and visit the island haven preserved by New Zealand’s pioneering conservationist, Richard Henry. The diverse wildlife encountered along the way promises to be a highlight of your cruise.

With expert nature guides on board, top-notch amenities, and exquisite cuisine, every aspect of your adventure is meticulously catered to, set against the breathtaking backdrop of New Zealand’s southern fiords. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of these secluded natural wonders, where history, wildlife, and rugged beauty converge into an extraordinary adventure.

Departure Dates

Start: Manapouri/Te Anau

Finish: Manapouri/Te Anau

• 7 day expedition cruise of Doubtful, Breaksea and Dusky Sounds and Preservation and Chalky Inlets (with 1-way helicopter transfer included)
• On-board specialist nature guides who provide informative commentary and evening talks
• Guided walks through rainforest and along beautiful deserted shorelines
• Visit historic sites and abandoned settlements
• Tender craft and kayaks for exploration of the coastline
• 32 passengers per departure
• Warm, comfortable accommodation (two passengers per sleeping compartment)
• Duvets, sheets and towels provided
• Modern shared bathroom facilities with hot showers
• Delicious meals prepared by onboard chef
• Open bridge policy - chat with the skipper during the voyage
• Kayaks and small motorised craft available for passenger use

Cost per Person

Payment Terms:

• Non-refundable deposit of 25% payable on booking, the balance is due 130 days before travel.

Amendments:

• $50 fee is charged for amendments to a confirmed reservation. Amendments are not allowed within 60 days before travel.

All cancellations must be in writing. Cancellation fees are charged on the following basis per person:

• Outside 90 days - loss of deposit + NZ$100.00 per person
• 89-60 days prior to departure - Loss of deposit + NZ$200.00 per person
• 59-0 days prior to departure - 100% of full fare or remaining balance

Cancellation fees are not negotiable – we strongly recommend travel insurance for passengers.

• Child Age: 10-15 years
• Children under 10 years of age are NOT allowed
• Adults over 70 years of age should consult with a doctor to ascertain physical fitness

Pricing is correct at the time of printing and may change without prior notice. The tour operator reserves the right to amend or cancel departures at any time should the weather or other circumstances necessitate.

Preservation Inlet Cruise

Important note.

The itinerary below is simply a general guide and all itineraries may be done in reverse.

Our tours offer a flexible sample itinerary as a general guide, but the true magic lies in the adaptability to change, based on the crew's judgment and weather conditions, making each expedition truly one-of-a-kind. The option for extra walks, tender craft explorations, and kayaking activities ensures your adventure is filled with variety and excitement.

7 days with helicopter flight out

Day 1: Manapouri to Breaksea Sound Start with a scenic cruise across Lake Manapouri, followed by a coach trip over the stunning Wilmot Pass to Deep Cove, Doubtful Sound. Board the Milford Wanderer to cruise out of Doubtful Sound, concluding with a 3-hour sea passage to Breaksea Sound.

Day 2: Breaksea Sound to Dusky Sound Navigate through Acheron Passage to Dusky Sound, exploring Shag Islands and Sportsman Cove. The afternoon offers a visit to Luncheon Cove, site of New Zealand’s earliest European and sealers settlement, with an optional guided walk on predator-free Anchor Island.

Day 3: Explore Dusky Sound Visit Richard Henry’s historic house site on Pigeon Island, then cruise Facile Harbour, the site of NZ's first known European shipwreck. The day continues with exploration through Earshell Cove and Resolution Island's narrow channels to The Basin for walking or kayaking.

Day 4: Dusky Sound to Chalky Inlet Discover Pickersgill Harbour and Astronomers Point, significant sites from Cook's 1773 expedition. A three-hour sea passage takes you to Chalky Inlet, with time to explore the beach at South Port and the old sawmill site, anchoring near the historic “Stella” steamship wreck at North Port.

Day 5: Chalky Inlet to Preservation Inlet Morning exploration of Cromarty's town site and Te Oneroa's mining relics, with an optional afternoon walk to Puysegur Point Lighthouse.

Day 6: Preservation Inlet Visit the Tarawera smelter's brick chimney and New Zealand's first operational whaling station at Cuttle Cove. Enjoy the pristine beaches of Spit Island.

Day 7: Preservation Inlet to Manapouri with Heli-Out Helicopter from Weka Island Barge to West Arm of Manapouri, starting flights from 11 am, followed by a picturesque cruise across Lake Manapouri to conclude your adventure at the RealNZ Manapouri Visitor Centre.

Enquire Now!

Similar Tours

• © 2024 Go New Zealand

Website by Bam Creative

Book now, pay later No credit card required

Fields marked with * are required

Please add the ages of the children and infants travelling with you. Ages would be at time of travel. Add ages for children (2-17 years) and infants (1 - 24 months) separated by a comma. Eg. 5, 7, 10

Your Details

Available options.

Please select the primary option first. Following that choice, if there are any secondary options available please select one of them.

Other Passengers

Please list the full name(s) of each passenger travelling with you.

General Information

Please specify if you wish to include any tour options or extra days & if you have any special requirements. e.g dietary, physical, medical; and (if available) advise arrival and departure flight details in New Zealand.

Send Booking Enquiry

Start Your Holiday

Self-Drive Holidays

Adventure Holidays

Book Accommodation

Book Car Rental

Book Campervan Hire

Coach, Train & Rail Touring

Cruise Holidays

Family Holidays

About Blog Explore NZ

Search Tours

Milford Wanderer

Find the perfect trip.

• SEARCH TRIPS
• SPECIAL OFFERS
• Shortlist ( 0 )
• phone UK: 01432 507 280
• mail_outline [email protected]

No cabin information

Upcoming Trips

See all upcoming cruises

Just because you’re escaping civilisation doesn’t mean you have to go without its comforts. Our vessel, the  Milford Wanderer , is a modern motorised vessel that has been purpose built for navigating southern New Zealand.

Designed along the lines of a traditional sailing scow, it has old world charm combined with modern facilities and the latest in safety equipment.  After recent refurbishment the Milford Wanderer offers "twin-share" compartments and shared bathroom facilities.

• 32 passengers per departure
• Warm, comfortable accommodation (two passengers per sleeping compartment)  
• Duvets, sheets and towels provided
• Modern bathroom facilities with hot showers 
• Delicious meals prepared by onboard chef  
• Open bridge policy - chat with the skipper during the voyage
• Kayaks and small motorised craft available for passenger use

Visit Fiordland

Milford sound piopiotahi, doubtful sound patea, fiordland national park, further into fiordland, on your way, milford road, southern scenic route, things to do in fiordland, weddings & celebrations, great walks, the great walks, milford track, kepler track, routeburn track, multi-day walks, dusky track, hollyford track, hump ridge track, from te anau, mavora lakes, from manapouri, milford road walks, make the most of fiordland, getting to fiordland, packages & deals, weather & seasons, driving in fiordland, itineraries, business events, how we can help, incentive travel, local services & community.

Boat Cruises

Guided walks, accommodation.

Embark on a multi-day voyage of discovery through some of the most isolated and beautiful regions in New Zealand.

About Discovery Expeditions – RealNZ

RealNZ operates 5 - 7-day Discovery Expeditions in Fiordland and Stewart Island onboard the purpose-built Milford Wanderer. The various itineraries cover the southern Dusky and Breaksea Sounds, Preservation and Chalky Inlets and the old whaling station at Prices Inlet on Stewart Island.

By following part of Captain Cook's historic 1773 voyage, Discovery Expeditions offer insights into inaccessible and stunning landscapes of the world as it once was.

• Delicious meals prepared by an onboard chef
• Guided walks through rainforest and along beautiful, deserted shorelines
• Visit historic sites and abandoned settlements
• Tender craft and kayaks for exploration of the coastline
• Specialist nature guide to provide insightful commentary and evening talks

See our website, www.realnz.com/en/experiences/expeditions/, for departure dates and itineraries.

Have a REAL adventure.

RealNZ Visitor Centre, Pearl Harbour Manapouri 9640

• 0800 65 65 01
• discovery@realnz.com
• realnz.com/en/experiences/expeditions

Endorsements

Physical address

Postal address.

PO Box 1 Te Anau 9640

• SOCIETY - RELIGION - THE SPIRITUAL DIMENSION
• Hobbiton Tours. Waitomo Caves And Rotorua Options.
• Freedom Tours. Flexible Packages Throughout New Zealand.
• North Island Tours. 2-8 Days
• South Island Tours.. Explore Our Magnificent South Island.
• North And South Island Tours. Stewart Island Option
• Rail Tours - New Zealand
• Awesome Auckland. Tours, Stayover Packages And Day Tours
• Best Of Northland. 2, 3, 4 Days
• Great Barrier Island. 4 Days
• Coromandel Peninsula. One - Three Day Tours
• Fabulous Fiordland Plus Queenstown. 7 Days - Features Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise.
• Norfolk Island
• French Polynesia
• COOK ISLANDS - RAROTONGA RELAXER. NIUE - BALI
• Public Transport
• New Zealand Issues.
• Auckland Issues

Preservation Inlet, Dusky Sound, Stewart Island extended cruises.

PRESERVATION INLET cruise

Itinerary: - Heli in.

Commence Queenstown 

2024:  September 13: Fully booked. Ask in case of cancellations  

2025: May 09. September 05.  Very limited cabins left on these cruises as at 31 July, 2024

Please note itinerary may be amended to be in the best place in the best weather!.

Day 1.     ARRIVE QUEENSTOWN

Arrive Queenstown and you will be transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free,

Day 2.    QUEENSTOWN - MANAPOURI - CRUISE.    (BD)

We drive to Manapouri and cruise across the bush fringed lake to West Arm then drive across Wilmot Pass to Doubtful Sound. Board our comfortable home  "Milford Wanderer" for the next 6 nights.. We sail mid afternoon for a 3 hour sea passage to Breaksea Sound and anchor for the night. Dinner on board.

Day 3.        BREAKSEA SOUND TO DUSKY SOUND  (BLD)

Cruise through the Acheron Passage to Dusky Sound and visit Shag Islands and Sportsman Cove. In the afternoon visit Luncheon Cove, the site of New Zealand's first European and sealers settlement. Optional guided walk (2,5km) over predator free Anchor Island. 

Day 4.           EXPLORE DUSKY SOUND    (BLD)

Start the day with a visit to early conservationist Richard Henry's house site on Pigeon Island. Cruise Facile Harbour, site of New Zealand's first known shipwreck. Cruise through the Earshell Cove and the narrow channels of Resolution Island to The Basin for a walk or some kayaking.

Day 5.                 DUSKY SOUND TO CHALKY INLET      (BLD)

Visit Pickersgill Harbour and Astronomers Point  - named and used by Captain Cook during his 5 week stay in 1773. Three hour sea passage with spectacular views of the rugged Fiordland Coast  to Chalky Inlet. Walk on the beach at South Port visiting the old sawmill site. Anchor at North Port near the rusting hulk of the 1800's government steamship "Stella"     

Day 6.       CHALKY INLET TO PRESERVATION INLET.    (BLD)

In the morning visit the town site of Cromarty and the mining relics of Te Oneroa with the option of a 5 km return walk to Puysegur Point lighthouse in the afternoon.

Day 7.       PRESERVATION INLET.    (BLD)

Visit Tarawera smelter's reclining brick chimney and the site of New Zealand's first operational whaling station at Cuttle Cove. Also take in the golden beaches of Spit Island.

Day 8.         PRESERVATION INLET - MANAPOURI - QUEENSTOWN   (B)

We say farewell to our friendly crew and discover Fiordland from a new perspective as we helicopter back to Manapouri and drive back to Queenstown for 1 night.

Day 9.           QUEENSTOWN DEPART (B)

You will be transferred to the airport for departure. You are welcome to stay longer if you wish.

Options to Stewart Island or why not continue on our West Coast extension departing wednesday for Franz Josef Glacier, Hokitika, Punakaiki, and Christchurch or Nelson.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DISCOVER STEWART ISLAND - 7 days/6 nights including 1 night Invercargill hotel before and after your cruise and 5 nights cruise.

Commence Invercargill

2025: August 03, 08

Day 1. Arrive Invercargill and transfer to hotel

Day 2. Transfer to Bluff and take the catamaran to Half Moon Bay to board "Milford Wanderer".  Cruise to Port Adventure, where oysters were first harvested commercially in the 1800's and finish the day with a beach or forest walk.

Day 3. Approximately 3 hours at sea to Port Pegasus with time for kayaking and/or a walk to the lookout above Evening Cove.

Day 4. Morning walk around Port Pegasus including a  walk up the impressive granite peak of Bald Cone and a walk to Broad Bay or Small Craft Harbour in the afternoon.  

Day 5. Visit the 1800's fishing base at North Pegasus and the Belltopper Falls then a four hour passage to Paterson Inlet in the afternoon. 

Day 6. Explore the predator free bird sanctuary of Ulva Island this morning. In the afternoon visit the historic Norwegian whaling station in Prices Inlet and/or kayak Kaipipi Bay.

Day 7. This morning walk from Golden Bay to Half Moon Bay and Oban township. Return to Bluff by catamaran this afternoon and transfer back to your hotel.

Day 8. Transfer to the airport for departure.

Tour cost per person   8 days Invercargill/Invercargill

2025:   2 per cabin/room. $4,799.......Single cabin/room. $8650

Tour cost includes:

** Arrival and departure transfers in Invercargill

** 2 nights accommodation and breakfast in Invercargill

** Transfers to and from Bluff and return Catamaran to Oban

**  5 night cruise aboard "Milford Wanderer" including all meals and activities.

Please note: "Milford Wanderer" accommodates a maximum of 32 guests in 16 private cabins with shared unisex bathrooms with hot showers.  She has two great viewing decks and cosy dining saloon for meals and relaxation. There are kayaks on board for independent exploration. These are expedition cruises and a good standard of fitness is required including (1) being able to walk on uneven terrain for up to 3 hours, (2)  walk up and down steep stairs, (3) navigate uneven surfaces, (4)  move around unassisted, (5) get in an out of ships tender and (6) climb in and out of helicopters. 

$100 from every passenger fare is donated to Department of Conservation Dusky Sound Conservation and Restoration programme. 

PRESERVATION INLET 

9 days / 8 nights. 

May 09 - 17. Heli in

September 05 - 13. Heli in

Tour cost per person, 2025

2 per cabin/hotel room:  $5,990

Single cabin/room:      $11,600

** Arrival and departure transfers in Queenstown

** Two nights accommodation and breakfast in Queenstown at 4 star hotel

** Road transfers between Queenstown and Manapouri

**  Helicopter flight from Preservation Inlet to Manapouri or vice versa 

** 6 night cruise aboard "Milford Wanderer" including all meals and shore excursions. Maximum 32 passengers.

Deposits and payment

A deposit of $1,500 per person share twin $2,000 single is due within 7 days of reservation confirmation. 

Balance is due 3 months prior to tour.

Other South Island Tours.. Explore Our Magnificent South Island.

Best of the West Coast, 6 days/5 nights plus 3 day short break mini "Tranz Alpine" Tours

Cities of the South

Fabulous Fiordland including Milford and Doubtful Sound cruises

Top of the South Island. 6 Six days

Copyright © 2024 New Zealand Tours

Website crafted by bocapa

• Travellers Newsletter Signup
• Agent Newsletter Signup

Back to South Island Tours   Back to All Tours

Preservation Inlet Cruise

Choose Your Preference

13/09/2024-27/08/2024

From $6,750 per person

Friday 13 sep 2024 - saturday 21 sep 2024 (9 days), take the trip of a lifetime to explore five of new zealand’s southernmost and seldom visited fiords onboard the milford wanderer. cruise around preservation and chalky inlets along with the stunning doubtful, dusky and breaksea sounds. during your cruise, you will land on beautiful beaches and spend time exploring the coastline via tender craft and kayak. view the island sanctuary set aside by new zealand’s first conservationist richard henry and enjoy the rich wildlife you will encounter on the cruise..

• Accommodation
• Terms & Conditions

Day 1              Friday 13 September 2024

ARRIVE QUEENSTOWN – TRAVEL TO TE ANAU                                                       (D)

Your adventure begins with a flight from Auckland to Queenstown. Upon arrival, you travel to Te Anau, the gateway to Fiordland National Park. You overnight in Te Anau before starting the magical Preservation Inlet Cruise tomorrow. Enjoy dinner tonight at the hotel.

Accommodation: Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau – 1 night

Day 2                  Saturday 14 September 2024

MANAPOURI – PRESERVATION INLET                                                                     (BLD)

After breakfast this morning, travel to the Manapouri Visitor Centre where you begin the cruise to the other side of Lake Manapouri to reach West Arm. Taking to the sky, fly by helicopter to the Weka Island Barge to board the Milford Wanderer . This purpose-built vessel is purpose-built to navigate through the Fiordland National Park and will be your home for the next six nights while exploring the many majestic fiords.

Accommodation: Onboard Milford Wanderer – 6 nights

Day 3                  Sunday 15 September 2024

EXPLORE PRESERVATION INLET                                                                              (BLD)

Starting your first full day on board, spend time visiting the historic sites of Cromarty and Te Oneroa . Explore the mining relics and townships that are being reclaimed by nature. This afternoon, there is the option to walk the 5km return track to Puysegur Point Light House

Day 4                  Monday 16 September 2024

PRESERVATION INLET – CHALKY INLET                                                                   (BLD)

Today explore the Tarawera Silver Mine and Smelter located in the Isthmus Sound, finding the reclining black chimney and steam boiler, all that remains of this historic site. Next, visit the site of New Zealand’s first operational whaling station at Cuttle Cove . Cruising to the Chalky Inlet, take in the sandy beaches of Spit Island before anchoring near the rusting hull of the 1800s government steamship “Stella” at North Port.

Day 5                  Tuesday 17 September 2024

CHALKY INLET – DUSKY SOUND                                                                              (BLD)

This morning, take a stroll on the beach at South Port to visit the old sawmill site. Back on board the Milford Wanderer, cruise through stunning passes to reach Dusky Sound. Here, take time to explore Pickersgill Harbour and Astronomers Point , both places named and used by Captain Cook in 1773.

Day 6                  Wednesday 18 September 2024

EXPLORE DUSKY SOUND                                                                                         (BLD)

Today make a visit to the house of early conservationist, Richard Henry, located on Pigeon Island. After this fascinating stop cruise Facile Harbour to the site of New Zealand’s first known European shipwreck. Cruising through Earshell Cove and through the narrow channels of Resolution Island , arrive at The Basin for the opportunity to take a walk or do some kayaking.

Day 7                  Thursday 19 September 2024

DUSKY SOUND – DOUBTFUL SOUND                                                                     (BLD)

This morning visit Luncheon Cove, the site of New Zealand’s first European and sealers settlement. Here there is the option to take a 2.5km guided walk over the predator-free Anchor Island. Cruise through the Ancheron passage to reach Breaksea Sound where you begin the 3-hour journey to Doubtful Sound .

Day 8                  Friday 20 September 2024

DOUBTFUL SOUND – TE ANAU                                                                                (BLD)

After cruising around the stunning Doubtful Sound this morning, enjoy lunch in Hall Arm . Returning to land and leaving behind the Milford Wanderer in Deep Cove, cross over the incredible Wilmot Pass by coach. Cruising back across Lake Manapouri, you complete your journey as you arrive at the Manapouri Visitor Centre. From here you will be transferred to your accommodation in Te Anau. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the hotel.

Day 9                  Saturday 21 September 2024

DEPART TE ANAU                                                                                                      (B)

After breakfast this morning, return home with a flight from Queenstown to Auckland, departing with many splendid memories of your adventure.

Please note: This is a non-escorted tour, but you will be very well looked after by the on-board crew.

Fitness Requirements:

Due to the layout of the Milford Wanderer, this tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or those with very limited mobility.

To get the most out of your experience, you should be able to manage walking for up to three hours, walk up and down steep stairs, navigate uneven surfaces, move around unassisted, and climb in and out of a helicopter without assistance.

Please contact our office if you have any queries around your ability to participate in this tour.

Distinction Luxmore Hotel, Te Anau

Milford Wanderer

Tour Inclusions

• Door to door home collection & drop off service available from select areas –  refer to further information available here
• Auckland – Queenstown return flights with Air New Zealand – other ports on application / price on application
• 2 nights hotel accommodation – twin/double rooms, all with private facilities (single rooms available with surcharge)
• 6 nights accommodation onboard the Milford Wanderer – private twin cabins with shared bathroom facilities (single rooms available with surcharge)
• On-board specialist nature guides who provide informative commentary and evening talks
• Tender craft and kayaks for exploration of the coastline
• Tour admissions as per itinerary
• Breakfasts (B), Lunches (L), Dinners (D) where indicated on your daily itinerary

Tour Payments Per Person ($NZD)

Full balance of tour payment due by Wednesday 05 June 2024.

Yes. Leisure Time Tours offers a free home collection and drop off service from selected Hamilton, Tauranga, Rotorua and most Auckland City areas. Our complimentary collections are based on your individual post code, other home collection locations available at an additional cost. Alternatively you may wish to meet us at our Hamilton depot in which case you can park your car in our secure yard free of charge for the duration of your holiday. For all tours that have a flight component, we can also offer door to door collections from Wellington, Christchurch and Dunedin city areas.

Please refer to our Home Collections page for further information about this service.

There is no Guaranteed Twin Share on this tour. 

To ensure that you select the right tour for you, we’ve developed a very clear set of fitness recommendations for our tours. These physical ratings clearly explain how much physical exertion is required to participate on each tour. 

Level 1 – Easy

• Relaxed paced tour
• Be able to participate in guided or unguided small walking tours at a relaxed pace.
• Walk on mostly level ground
• Tackle an occasional flight of stairs
• Occasionally need to stand for up to 10 minutes
• Able to get on and off transportation unaided

Level 2 – Moderate

• Be able to participate in walking tours with time to rest at least every 10 minutes
• Stand for 15 minutes without needing to sit down
• Tackle a flight of stairs or incline
• Walk confidently on bush tracks

  Level 3 – Active

• Participate in walking tours without having to rest for up to 20 minutes
• Walk up an incline equal to a flight of stairs without stopping
• Stand for 30 minutes without needing to sit down
• Walk over uneven ground and walk through soft sand

Yes we can. Should you wish to arrive earlier or stay longer we can book in some pre and post tour accommodation for you. Please ask at the time of booking if you require this.

This tour will be guaranteed once the minimum number of passengers have been booked on the tour.

Passengers rotate seats in the coach daily so that all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy forward and window seating. All passengers are expected to participate as a booking condition.

Leisure Time Tours strongly advises all passengers to purchase a travel insurance policy. A comprehensive travel insurance policy may prevent you from spending extra money in case of an emergency and will help you feel protected during your holiday. We are agents for Cover More Travel Insurance. Ask us for a no obligation insurance quote today.

Luggage is restricted to one suitcase and one small item of hand luggage per person. Baggage handling of one suitcase per person, at each hotel, is included in the trip price. Carry-on/hand luggage handling is the responsibility of each guest and all personal items must be taken off the coach by you each day of the trip.

When on tour, dress is generally relaxed and casual with an informal dress standard on most occasions. Casual wear is recommended for travelling with something a little more formal for evening dining. If taking part in outdoor activities, make sure you have a waterproof coat, comfortable footwear and dress in layers to help you adjust to any sudden changes in climate. Be prepared for New Zealand’s powerful sun, even on cold windy days, bringing a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.

Terms and Conditions for Preservation Inlet Cruise

Valid from 01 October 2023

Acceptance of Terms and Conditions  

If you book a Packaged T our with us and pay your deposit, you are deemed to have accepted these terms.   If you book a Leisure Time Travel tour through an agent, the agent is deemed to have accepted these terms on your behalf.      We may ask you to sign a copy of these terms when you join your Packaged Tour to provide a record of your acceptance of these terms and you agree to sign these terms on our request.  

Itineraries   The itinerary for your Packaged Tour was correct at the time of printing but is subject to change without notice. This could come about due to road or weather conditions, or any changes im posed by other tour operators and carriers included in the itinerary. Such changes may occur prior to travel, or whilst on tour. You agree that we have no liability to you for changes to your itinerary. If a passenger amends their itinerary by starting or concluding the itinerary earlier or later, then it becomes their responsibility to arrange tour or flight connections as necessary.   

*Guaranteed Twin Share Prices   Our Guaranteed Twin Share price is available for those passengers willing to share with another single traveller of the same gender. If there isn’t another passenger of the same gender to share with, we GUARANTEE our twin share price. Leisure Time Travel accepts no responsibility for the compatibility of passengers travelling under this arrangement. If someone is not compatible with the person they have been matched up with, all additional costs incurred to assist with changing their shared room type to two single rooms will be at the expense of both travellers and will be subject to availability. Acceptance of a guaranteed twin share room is subject to the individual’s medical condition being suitable for this type of accommodation arrangement.   *NOT applicable to all tours, please refer to the individual tour brochure to confirm whether this arrangement is available.  

Travel Insurance   Leisure Time Travel strongly advises all passengers to purchase a travel insurance policy when booking a tour. A comprehensive travel insurance policy gives peace of mind for unexpected issues or emergencies that may arise prior to or during a tour. We can assist with a no-obligation insurance quotation – ask us for a quote today, or you may opt to arrange your own travel insurance.  

Health and Fitness   Passengers should be in good health and able to walk moderate distances to fully participate and experience the sightseeing opportunities within the enclosed itinerary. All passengers are required to acknowledge that they are of reasonable health and are considered to be fit to travel and are not travelling contrary to any medical advice. By acknowledging their health and fitness to participate , passengers are indemnifying us from all actions, claims and demands arising out of any lack of health and fitness. We reserve the right to remove a passenger from a tour if their health or fitness interferes with any other passenger’s experiences or the day to day running of the tour. In this instance our normal cancellation terms and conditions will apply. You agree that we have no liability to you for any loss, damage, costs or other effects of health problems you may encounter on your Packaged Tour.  

Travellers Who Require Assistance   

It is a requirement of joining your Packaged Tour that you disclose to us at time of booking, any disability requiring special attention .  This includes physical disability, difficulty walking, hearing or eyesight impairment, or any neurological disorders .  Should your health circumstances change between time of booking and travel date, we require you to disclose if you now have any disability requiring special attention .     While every effort is made to accommodate such difficulties, we are not responsible in the event we are unable to do so, and are not responsible for any denial of services by third party operators including airlines, accommodation providers and tour operators .  Our concern must always be for the enjoyment and welfare of the group as a whole, and we regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to participants for walking, getting on and off motor coaches or vessels, or other personal needs. A physically and mentally able companion must accompany travellers who need such assistance .  

Seat Changes   Passengers rotate seats in the coach daily so that all passengers have the opportunity to enjoy forward and window seating. All passengers are expected to participate as a booking condition.  

Luggage   Luggage is restricted to one item of ‘checked in’ luggage and one smaller item of ‘ underseat ’ or hand luggage per person.   Due to limited storage capacity in the motorcoaches used on tour, each ‘check in’ luggage item should have dimensions not exceeding 30” x 20” x 12” (76x51x30cm) and weight not exceeding 50lbs (23kg).   

‘ Underseat ’ or hand luggage is restricted to one piece per person, not exceeding 17” x 13” x 8.7” (43x33x22cm). ‘ Underseat ’ or hand luggage handling is the responsibility of each guest and must be taken on and off the motorcoach by you each day of the trip. Although every effort is made to handle guests’ luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. Therefore, it is important for protection that passengers make certain they have adequate travel insurance to cover these eventualities.   

Car Parking at Leisure Time Tours Yard    

The car parking facility (“Facility”) offered for passengers is provided for the convenience of our patrons only. The use of this Facility is entirely at the risk of the vehicle owner.   Leisure Time Tours Ltd   (“Company”) shall not be responsible for any loss, theft, damage, or vandalism to vehicles or their contents while parked in the Facility.   The Company disclaims all liability for any accidents, injuries, or damages that may occur within the Facility, including, but not limited to, collisions between vehicles, slips, falls, or any other accidents.   All vehicles parked in the Facility must be properly insured. Vehicle owners are responsible for ensuring that their insurance covers any damage or loss that may occur while their vehicle is in the Facility.   By using the Facility, the vehicle owner or operator agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its employees, agents, and affiliates from any claims, liabilities, losses, costs, or expenses arising out of or in connection with the use of the Facility.   The Company reserves the right to refuse entry to or eject any vehicle or individual from the Facility at its discretion.   The Company does not guarantee the security or surveillance of the Facility, and patrons are encouraged to take appropriate precautions to safeguard their vehicles and possessions.   The terms and conditions of this disclaimer are subject to change without notice.   

Price Amendments   Prices were correct at the time and date of printing; however, Leisure Time Travel reserves the right to amend the price subject to any changes in price imposed by other tour operators and carriers included in the itinerary or major fluctuation in the exchange rates, or increases in government or other levies. The final tour cost will be guaranteed not to change once the full and final payment has been received.   

Exclusions    

Tour price excludes airport departure taxes, drinks, telephone calls, gratuities, any passport or visa costs, travel insurance, items of a personal nature, optional sightseeing activities, and costs for variations made outside the group travel arrangements.   

Payments, Cancellations and Refunds   A non-refundable deposit is required when booking to confirm your place on a tour .   Registrations will be accepted in order of receipt of deposits.  

All balance payments must be received by Leisure Time Travel prior to the date specified as per itinerary or your booking confirmation. Payments are available to be made by Cash, Direct Credit or EFTPOS – Credit Card payments will incur an additional surcharge. Leisure Time Travel reserves the right to amend , reschedule or cancel the tour due the result of circumstances outside the company’s control. Leisure Time Travel also reserves the right to cancel the tour due to insufficient numbers and in this instance a substitute date will be offered, or a full refund will be made available.   

New Zealand Cancellation Policy Note – These cancellation terms are for standard domestic tours which excludes overnight boat stays

If you cancel your booking: 

•  90+ days prior to tour commencement, loss of non-refundable deposit plus a $200.00 per person cancellation fee.
•  89-60 days prior to tour commencement your cancellation charge will be 50% of the holiday price (50% refund) plus any applicable supplier cancellation fees 
•  60 days prior to tour commencement your cancellation charge will be 100% of the holiday price (no refund) 

No refunds on any unused portions of any itinerary.   

Please note that any applicable airline content does not apply to the above refunds – see your airline for their specific cancellation/refund policies.

Our Responsibilities   We are responsible for booking and packaging goods and services provided by other operators such as hotels, attractions, and transportation companies to create your Packaged Tour. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with the terms that will apply to those goods and services. We are not responsible and have no liability to you for the terms of other operators or for any loss, damage, omission or acts, negligent or otherwise, committed by those other operators.  

Your Responsibilities   You agree to behave reasonably throughout your Packaged Tour and not to be a nuisance to other passengers. You agree to comply with these terms and the terms that apply to any goods or services supplied to you by other operators. You also agree to comply with our reasonable requests and the requests of other operators. You indemnify us for any liability, costs, damages or other expenses we suffer or incur as a direct or indirect consequence of your behaviour while part of your Packaged Tour.  

Removal f rom Tour   For the wellbeing of all passengers on your Packaged Tour, we reserve the right to remove you from your Packaged Tour and cancel your booking with us if you breach any of your obligations under these terms provided that, except in the case of a serious breach (as determined by us) we will give you notice of the breach and a reasonable opportunity (which will be no more than two days) to remedy the breach before exercising our cancellation right.   In the case of a serious breach, we can exclude you from your Packaged Tour and cancel your booking by immediate verbal or written notice to you.   In the event of such cancellation, you will be responsible, at your cost, for arranging any accommodation, travel costs and other matters required as a direct or indirect consequence of the cancellation.   

Force Majeure   You agree that we have no liability to you and will not pay any compensation to you where the performance of our contractual obligations is prevented or affected by circumstances amounting to “force majeure ”. In these terms, ‘force majeure’ means any event that has an impact on your Packaged Tour which we or the other operator (where relevant) could not, even with all due care, foresee or avoid. Such events may include war or threat of war, riots, civil strife, terrorist activity, industrial dispute, natural or nuclear disaster, pilferage, epidemics, pandemics, forced quarantine, medical or customs regulations, riot, fire, storm, flood, explosion, compliance with any law or government restraint order, rule regulation, strikes, lock outs, or any other cause not reasonably within the control of our control. We reserve the right to cancel, amend or reschedule your Packaged Tour during or following any force majeure and if we do so you agree that we will have no liability to you for any direct or indirect consequences of the cancellation, amendment or rescheduling.  

Privacy Act Waiver    

Travellers joining our tours automatically give consent for us to pass essential personal information to our suppliers on the tour as necessary .   This information may include full name; address; passport number; travel details; contact details; dietary requirements and health information.   

Limitation of Liability     The Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, the Fair Trading Act 1986, and other statutes in New Zealand may impose warranties, conditions or obligations upon us which cannot by law (or which can only to a limited extent by law) be excluded. We exclude all such imposed warranties, conditions or obligations to the extent permitted by law and exclude any warranty, condition or obligation imposed or implied under common law, equity or otherwise.   Except to the extent that the law prevents us from excluding liability and as expressly provided for in these terms, we shall not be liable for any loss or damage or liability of any kind whatsoever (including consequential loss or lost profit or business) whether suffered or incurred by you or another person and whether in contract, or tort (including in negligence), or otherwise and whether such loss or damage arises directly or indirectly from Work or Goods provided by us to you.   To the extent that we are liable for any reason for any loss suffered or liability incurred by you arising from any breach of these terms or for any other reason, such liability is limited to the price of your Packaged Tour.   

Anchor Island - Luncheon Cove, Dusky Sound

Dolphin in Milford Sound

Milford Sound Cruise

Dusky Sound cruise, Fiordland

Dusky Sound, Fiordland

Lake Manapouri

Wilmot Pass in Fiordland National Park

Lake Te Anau

Pickersgill Harbour

Home Collection Service

Fitness Level for Tours

Short Breaks       North Island Tours     South Island Tours       Small Group Tours     Overseas Tours           Special Interest      

More tours like this one:

Privacy Overview

• +64 3 441 3322

The main saloon and dining area with open bridge behind the TV - view facing the bow. 2 x U-shaped comfortable seating areas and booth seating for up to 22 guests.

The main saloon and dining area - starboard view. Stairs to the Governor cabin, top-deck Heli pad and hot tub.

The main saloon and dining area - view towards the stern. Location of our licensed bar, galley kitchen, complimentary tea & coffee area.

1 x Governor Cabin. At the top of the boat all by itself with its own full width forward window and large side windows. Super-King bed.

4 x Captain Cook Cabins. All on the main deck all with sea views. Super-King bed, each ensuite has a separate shower and toilet.

• 2 x Endeavour Cabins. Both on the main deck both with sea views. King single beds, each ensuite has a separate shower and toilet.

• 2 x Resolution Cabins. Both on the main deck both with sea views. 2 single bunks single beds, each ensuite has a combined shower and toilet.

2 x Resolution Cabins (top and bottom bunk). Both on the main deck both with sea views. 2 single bunks single beds, each ensuite has a combined shower and toilet.

About our boat

The Fiordland Jewel is a 24m, three-deck catamaran with a high quality 5-star marine fit-out. Our Milford Sound Overnight Cruise sleeps 20 passengers a night and on our Fiordland and Stewart Island private charters and our small group scenic boat expeditions we cater to a maximum of 18 passengers in nine climate-controlled cabins, each with their own ensuite bathroom.

The Fiordland Jewel was designed and built by Fiordland Discovery owner and skipper Rob Swale. 

CABIN INFORMATION

• 1 x Governor Cabin. At the top of the boat all by itself with its own full width forward window and large side windows. Super-King double bed, the ensuite has a separate shower and toilet.
• 4 x Captain Cook Cabins. All on the main deck all with sea views. Super-King double bed, each ensuite has a separate shower and toilet.

SPECIFICATIONS Vessel Type: Custom designed and built twin crew catamaran powered by 2 Scania engines Length: 24m Breadth: 8m Draft: 2.05 Cruising Speed: 16 knots Crew: 4-5 Guests: 18-20 Cabins: 9 Tenders: 1 Kayaks: 8

THE FIORDLAND JEWEL IS A PURPOSE-BUILT, ONE-OF-A-KIND CATAMARAN, EXCLUSIVE IN FIORDLAND BECAUSE OF ITS:

• Helicopter pad.
• Top deck hot tub.
• Remote Operating Vehicle (ROV): The Fiordland Jewel hosts Fiordland’s first and only remote-operated vehicle, which provides high resolution live underwater footage.  Our guests on our private charters and small group scenic boat expeditions may have the opportunity to view the enchanting sea life beneath the surface in real time from the comfort of the boat lounge.

• Download PDF

• Recent Photos
• The Commons
• Flickr Galleries
• Camera Finder
• Flickr Blog
• The Print Shop
• Prints & Wall Art
• Photo Books
• Stats Dashboard
• Get Auto-Uploadr

Milford Wanderer.

The milford wanderer cruises the famous milford sound but also offers longer 5- and 7-day trips to more remote sounds, inlets and scenery. the wanderer offers a hostel-like communal atmosphere and can accommodate 150 passengers on day cruises or 61 overnight. milford wanderer ship profile and statistics cruise line: real journeys ship type: small adventure line class: specialty year built: 1992 year last refurbished: - capacity: 61 passengers length: 98 ft.

Discovery Expeditions

Embark on a journey of discovery

Trace Captain Cook's voyage on a multi-day expedition through some of the most remote & beautiful regions in New Zealand.

A multi-day Discovery Expedition cruise takes you on an exploration of Fiordland or Stewart Island and offers an insight into the world as it once was; raw, pristine and largely uninhabited.

Spend your days immersed in isolated wilderness as you voyage the seas on our purpose-built vessel, taking in the natural wonders and wildlife along the way. There are plenty of opportunities to disembark the vessel with daily nature hikes, kayaking and tender craft activities. Throughout the voyage, onboard nature guides, who are experts on southern New Zealand, share knowledge of the flora, fauna and history of these regions.

Our Expeditions

Preservation Inlet Discovery Expeditions

Dusky Sound Discovery Expeditions

Dusky Sound Conservation Expeditions

Stewart Island Discovery Expeditions

Welcome aboard the Milford Wanderer

Just because you’re escaping civilization doesn’t mean you have to go without its comforts. Our vessel, the Milford Wanderer, is a modern motorised vessel that has been purpose-built for navigating southern New Zealand.

Designed along the lines of a traditional sailing scow, it has old world charm combined with modern facilities and the latest in safety equipment.

Your sleeping quarters on board the Milford Wanderer are warm and comfortable (two passengers per sleeping compartment) with a maximum of 32 passengers per departure. All linen and towels are provided.

While on board you will enjoy delicious meals prepared by the onboard chef. The galley is well provisioned and all meals are catered; including morning and afternoon teas. In fact, Discovery Expeditions are famous for their delicious and plentiful home-cooked meals, so you certainly won’t go home hungry!

Get in touch

For more information please do not hesitate to contact us, our friendly team are here to help. 

Email: [email protected] Freephone (NZ): 0800 65 65 01 Freephone (Australia): 1800 65 65 01  Phone:   +64 3 249 6000

Conservation Expeditions

Conservation Expeditions in partnership with the Department of Conservation

Conservation is an intrinsic part of Real Journeys heritage and you have the opportunity to join us on one of our amazing conservation cruises in either Fiordland or Stewart Island where you will learn about the Department of Conservation's efforts in the region from DoC staff on board and spend time doing real conservation work in the most amazing locations.

Watch our video to get more of an idea on what to expect when you visit. 

Image gallery

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Best of Moscow by high speed train

By shuguley , February 15, 2014 in Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Recommended Posts

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.

Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?

My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

Link to comment

Share on other sites.

If you are considering this on the 2015 June Baltic cruise on Voyager; my suggestion is don't. There is so much to do in St. Petersburg and although a train is one of my favorite ways to travel the time would be far better spent in St. P.

Thanks for the advice. Yes, this would be on the Voyager during the 2015 season but not yet sure exactly which cruise.

We did the Moscow excursion "on a different luxury line", but from your brief description it sounds very much like the same trip, so I will operate on that assumption. It is a VERY long day! We left the ship at 5:30 AM and returned at 12:30 AM. The highspeed train trip is comfortable, and while they call it "Business Class" it does not compare well to the equivalent class on say Rail Europe. When we did it in 2011, we did have highspeed both ways, and the trip back seemed much longer as the adrenaline and excitement had worn off!:D

Moscow itself is not that terribly different from any other big city in the world, but this Cold War kid never thought he would ever stand in Red Square, never mind walk the grounds of The Kremlin, or tour The Kremlin Palace, or see (but not visit) Lenin's Tomb, or visit The Armoury. But he did, and he loved every minute of it! Yes, it is a long day, and you barely scratch a scratch on the surface, but it is worth it. There is a tremendous amount to see in St. Petersburg, but every Baltic cruise goes to St. Petersburg, so you can go back if you choose to. Not every cruiseline offers you the chance to see Moscow.

I have not personally done this tour, but our last time in St Petersburg, the private guide that we hired for a day was leading the regent tour to Moscow on the high speed train the next day. He said it was way better than the previous alternative, which was flying to Moscow and back. He said that you actually got to Moscow faster because you didn't have to deal with airline checkin etc. it did seem like a very long day to me, and there is so much to see and do in st. Petersburg that I didn't consider doing it.

countflorida

We toured to Moscow from St. Petersburg via the hi-speed SAPSAN train last September, from a Baltic cruise on the Oceania Marina. You need to have a two-night, three day port call in St. Petersburg to take this tour because the tour typically leaves the ship around 5:00 - 5:30 AM and doesn't return until after midnight the next day. We didn't take the ship's tour; we made private arrangements with TravelAllRussia for three days of touring, the first and third days in St. Petersburg and the second day the tour to Moscow by train. Our cost for the private tour for three days was about the same as what the ship charged for the excursion to Moscow alone. There are a number of private tour agencies that operate in St. Petersburg and offer the Moscow train tours; we would strongly recommend them over the ship's tours.

All three days had private guides with car and driver. The second day, the driver picked us up at the ship and took us to the train, but we were alone on the train, and met in Moscow by the guide on the station platform. After our tour and dinner, we were brought back to the train and after the return train trip met by the driver and taken back to the ship. Because you are alone on the train you must have your own Russian visas.

If this is your first visit to St. Petersburg, I would agree there is much more to see there. We found Moscow somewhat a disappointment, particularly Red Square. The Kremlin and the cathedral in Red Square were also worth seeing. But the best thing we saw was the Moscow subway! I worked for the Washington Metro system back in the 1980s as it grew from 40 to 80 miles and although I was in the computer area, I learned a lot about the challenges of running a subway system. We used the Moscow system to get across the city from where we had dinner to the train station, and I was amazed at the cleanliness', speed of operation, the short headways maintained, and the courtesy of everyone involved. A very impressive experience!

We had been to St. Petersburg before, and so had the time to take a day and go to Moscow. Also, I really like trains, and the SAPSAN is a German train set running on Russian rails. Seats are like first class domestic air, spacious but not too plush or comfortable, but with enough room. Not too much recline, and almost 8 hours on the train in two shots is a lot for an old man. They come through and sell drinks, candy, etc. but the sellers don't speak English and no one around us helped, so we had just poor coffee once coming, and brought stuff with us for the trip back. Not too much to see from the train either, particularly on the return when it is night the whole way.

If you decide to go, take a private tour and avoid the overly expensive ship's tour. I'm glad we did it, but wouldn't bother to repeat the tour; we've seen Moscow.

Thanks so much to all of you for the thorough and thought insight. Yhe information you have provided is most helpful.

countflorida: Your detailed post is very helpful. We are not quite ready for a Baltic cruise but should do so within a year. Time enough to do our pre travel research, bookings and visa gathering.:) Thank you!

Emperor Norton

Sure would appreciate someone who has taken "Best of Moscow by high speed train" from St. Petersburg could please share their impressions of this shore excursion. From the description this sounds like a very long day.   Wondering how the 4 hour train trip was in terms of accommodations, etc. Also what time did you leave the ship and what time at night did you return? Were both legs of the trip on the high speed rail (I read that slower trains also travel the same tracks)?   My wife and I are considering this excursion. We thought that if we are making all the effort to go to Russia then how could we pass up going to Moscow, walking in Red Square, seeing St. Basil, etc.

I did this on Seabourn. IMO DONT. Take Aeroflop (er Aeroflot). The train has non folding seats where you are literally knee to knee with your fellow passenger (facing each other). Further they don't believe in air conditioning. It's also the worlds slowed bullet train. I think I would have found more enjoyment wandering around the St. Petersburg and Moscow airports.

Countflorida,

This is a little off topic,, however we had planned a river cruise in Russia but decided we would rather stay on land and have booked about two weeks with Travel-All-Russia using the private guide and driver. I'm curious as to how you found them as a tour company.

The guides they provided were fine. We had a different guide each of the days in St. Petersburg, but both were flexible, pleasant, knowledgeable and spoke English very well, as did the guide in Moscow, incidentally. She was a bit aloof, distant, not too friendly, but otherwise fine. In fact, she was the one who suggested taking the Metro, which unexpectedly became one of the highlights of the Moscow excursion. If I have a complaint with AllTravelRussia, it is with their plan and its execution (more later).

I had requested emphasis on World War II (in Russia, the Great Patriotic War) sites and info. In scheduling us, they weren't careful about dates and a couple of the sites we wanted to see were scheduled on the third day, after we'd been to Moscow. But both sites were closed that day of the week, and that info was readily available, right on web sites describing them. Also, the included meals (lunches in St. Pete, dinner in Moscow) were not what we asked for: light meals with some choices, so we could avoid things we didn't like and choose things we did like. My request was ignored; we were given full Russian meals with a fixed menu, no choice. On the first day, a fish dish was the entre, but I am allergic to fish. Fortunately, I had the e-mail I'd sent with me and showed it to the guide, and she was able to change my entre to chicken, which was very good actually. But we didn't want a 3-4 course lunches or dinner (in Moscow). We had the guide drop the lunch the third day, although we never got any credit or refund. But, particularly in contrast to the ship's tours, the prices were so reasonable we didn't worry too much about it.

The people who were on the ship's tour to Moscow saw us boarding the same train for which they were forced to queue up and wait on the way back, and asked us what we had done. I was candid and open so they were not happy when I explained what we had arranged and particularly what it had cost. Also, when we returned to the ship, we found they had laid on a late supper for those who had gone to Moscow, so up we went and had something. Well, it turns out the late supper was supposed to be just for those on the ship's tour, but we and others on 'independent' tours, there were a dozen or more of us, crashed the party, actually got there first, and they didn't realize it until the larger group arrived and there weren't enough tables/places set. By that time, the 'independents' had all gotten served and were eating; what could they do?

A couple from the larger group sat down with us and asked us about our tour, and they were the ones I told about our arrangement and its cost. They turned to others who’d been with them and announced the details, loudly enough so the whole room heard, which started a lot of bitching and complaining. I gathered they weren't very happy with the ship's tour to begin with, and this was the straw that broke the camel's back. We finished up and beat it out of there, but overheard later that one of the excursion staff came to check on something and ran into a real mess. I caught a cold on the trip, which forced me to bed the second day following in Tallinn, so by the time we reappeared we heard about the contretemps' but apparently no one recalled who started it, thankfully.

Because of what happened to us, I would probably not use AllTravelRussia if I were to go again, or if I did, I would be sure to get confirmation of every detail of the tour. They do have good reviews generally, and we were certainly helped by their visa department and liked the guides and drivers. Their weakness, I say now with full 20:20 hindsight, is that once the sales person who plans the tour, sells it to you and collects your money, he (or she) transfers the plan to their Russia office for implementation; there is no follow-up to make sure it gets done right. And that is where our problems arose; we paid for a custom tour but got a standard package with a few destinations switched, and no one checked them out, even to see when they were open the day we were scheduled to go. If you check every detail that’s important to you, it should be OK, but that’s a hell of a way to have to do business, in my opinion.

Thank you for the 20/20 hindsight observation on your Russian tour operator, and better priced than the ship's excursion cost.

Thanks very much for the feedback.

We had the same experience as you so far as price. We originally booked a Viking Cruise but, hearing some things about the river cruises that made us unhappy, looked into other options. T-A-R cost the same or less than a cruise and had us in hotels for 11 days. We opted for the private tour. They have three tour levels, based on hotels. We originally opted for the four star as it did not cost much more than the three star hotels. Finally we decided to throw it all in and upgraded to five star. In Moscow we will be at the newly opened Kempinsky which is two blocks from Red Square. In St. Petersburg it is the Grand Hotel Europe, one of the most vaunted luxury hotels in Russia. Location is important for us as the tours use up only part of the day so being in the center of everything for our independent touring is important. As with many other cities, the less you pay, the farther out of the center of town you are.

We have been working with our salesman in D.C. and he seems to get back to us with the changes we want. He recently returned from Russia so is up on everything. When I asked they said they paid the full TA commission if I wanted so I got my usual TA on board so he is watching our back and giving us that extra level of comfort. He also set up our air, which I know pays him little or nothing, and got us business class for much less than T-A-R wanted for economy, though it took working for a while with a consolidator. He's happy to get his 10 percent on this trip without having booked it. He also took care of the trip insurance. We've been doing a lot of research on the CC sister site Trip Advisor and will write a report there. We will, I guess, become a source of info for CC members after having spent 5 days in Moscow and 6 in SP.

• 4 months later...

scubacruiserx2

Anybody considering a day trip to Moscow from St. Petersburg on the Sapsan may want to look at our travelogue filled with pictures.

http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1927687

Very informative. Thanks dor sharing. Jeff

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in

• Welcome to Cruise Critic
• Hurricane Zone 2024
• Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com Summer 2024
• New Cruisers
• Cruise Lines “A – O”
• Cruise Lines “P – Z”
• River Cruising
• Cruise Critic News & Features
• Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
• Special Interest Cruising
• Cruise Discussion Topics
• UK Cruising
• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
• Canadian Cruisers
• North American Homeports
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Conversations

Announcements

• New to Cruise Critic? Join our Community!

Write Your Own Amazing Review !

Click this photo by member XFrancophileX to share your review w/ photos too!

Parliament, Budapest

Features & News

LauraS · Started 1 hour ago

LauraS · Started 10 hours ago

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 02:31 PM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 11:32 AM

LauraS · Started Wednesday at 07:31 AM

Cruise Planning

Find a cruise, popular ports, member reviews.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

• Existing user? Sign in OR Create an Account
• Find Your Roll Call
• Meet & Mingle
• Community Help Center
• All Activity
• Member Photo Albums
• Meet & Mingle Photos
• Favorite Cruise Memories
• Cruise Food Photos
• Cruise Ship Photos
• Ports of Call Photos
• Towel Animal Photos
• Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos
• Write a Review
• Live Cruise Reports
• Member Cruise Reviews
• Create New...