SAIL, KAYAK, FREEDIVE, HIKE, RELAX
OR ALL OF THE ABOVE AND BEYOND
Each with their own unique set of passions, curiosities and bucket list tick boxes, every explorer is different - so why in Mother Nature’s name would we make every expedition the same?
Some folks love to soar into remote corners on a breathtaking helicopter ride, while others prefer to sail the coast. The dusky waters draw many to explore the sights by kayak and snorkel, as hikers get knee deep in the lush rainforest and marvel at the diverse flora and fauna. If photography is your thing, these majestic mountain tops and beautiful light will have you captivated.
While some will pack as much action as they can into one day, a few like to sit back, relax and let this stunning destination work her magic. And there’s always the option to do all of the above and beyond, as we collaborate to turn your special requests into a remote, bespoke reality.
Whether you’re looking for a multi-day journey or mini-break, the first step to your escapade is deciding whether you’d like to design your own or let nature lead the way on one of our epic curated adventures. Explore your options below, then book now or start crafting.
SOAR
There's nothing like starting an adventure with an epic helicopter transfer into the wild corner of Fiordland - it sure beats rush hour traffic! Quite simply, from the air, Fiordlands spectacular mountains, remote valleys and high alpine lakes and tarns are unforgettable and breathtaking. We arrange effortless helicopter transfers from Te Anau, Queenstown, and beyond using local, highly skilled, passionate and experienced pilots who are never short of a story or two!
KAYAK
Fondly known as ‘backpacking on water’, this is your opportunity to access the remote corners of Fiordland National Park and experience the stunning primeval wilderness without leaving a trace. A chance to truly immerse yourself in the rawness of Fiordland National Park from the seat of a kayak.
Follow in the paddle strokes of our country's first explorers, discover the vast secluded waterways and islands whilst ultimately experiencing Mother Nature’s magnificent cycles - and if you’re lucky; mingle with the playful fauna that swim alongside.
If you’re keen for a solid adventure or an intimate sojourn, we have all the experience and equipment to make it happen. Add kayaking to your multi-day adventure with the Breaksea Girl as your base, go wild overnight on one of Fiordland’s many secluded islands or dip a paddle in your newfound passion with a day trip on Lake Te Anau or Manapouri.
FREEDIVE
The wild waters of Fiordland National Park are some of the most unique in the world. As high volumes of rain falls through lush native forest and cascades into the fiords, it becomes stained with tannins. This dark freshwater won’t mix with the sea below, so sits on top limiting the light shining through and creating a forty-meter band of calm, clear and relatively warm water.
This creates the perfect conditions for fauna that would usually live at great depths to flourish and folks like you to explore by freediving or with a snorkel.
These waters are protected under the Fiordland Marine Management Act to preserve the natural beauty, diversity and health of the area to ensure future generations can enjoy. This means there is an extensive list of ‘marine reserves' and ‘china shops’ where you can check out the abundant marine environment in action.
WALK
New Zealand’s Great Walks are all well and good, but those with a wild side may prefer to avoid the crowds and well-trodden paths of the Milford and Routeburn Tracks.
After years of exploring the endless valleys of Fiordland National Park, we’ve pulled together a map of alternate routes and hidden trails that lead through prehistoric flora to mountain lakes, waterfalls and views you won’t find on Instagram.
Thanks to the Department of Conservation and other local conservation trusts working to develop a network of pest-free islands throughout Fiordland, there is a chance of spotting some of our rare and endangered bird species. Wherever you venture in the Fiordland bush, you will be blown away by the density and diversity of its flora.
RELAX
A wild adventure with us is more than action packed days in Mother Nature’s playground. It’s time to soak in her goodness, sample her fruits and reconnect with the natural world - including the loved ones or newly formed friendships within it.
One of the best things about the Breaksea Girl is her cosy corners and open decks where you can snuggle up with a book, watch the wild go by behind glazed glass or bask in the sun from her rooftop.
And when it comes to refueling or toasting another wondrous day in the wild, we always go local with freshly caught crayfish, Southland venison, wholesome and hearty sides and a range of delicious wines by our talented local vineyards. Though we must admit that our taste in whiskey takes us a little further afield.
SAIL
Welcome to your home in the wild and an opportunity to take your adventure into your own hands. With the ability to shut down her engine in the right conditions, our sixty-foot Buckeyed Ketch becomes a distinct sailboat that invites all aboard to learn the ropes or even take the helm. Enjoy the ride from the decks or sit in alongside her skipper, and get lost in the wild with the wind in your sails.
BEYOND
Fiordland and Stewart Island are wild and remote, with spectacular mountains, valleys and fiords and with that comes an endless repertoire of opportunities to ensure your adventure is as legendary and the place.
Photography
Fiordland is breathtaking through the lens, regardless of the weather
With stunning and diverse landscapes, phenomenal light bouncing around the fiord walls, untamed waterfalls, and unique species, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place in Aotearoa to capture the wild beauty of the natural world. The remoteness and moodiness of Fiordland provides observers with a spectacular show of Mother Nature and though the rain and winds are tough at times, it is a privilege to showcase this landscape we call home and provide front row seats to her ever-changing patterns.
Fishing
Ocean to Plate
There’s nothing better than cracking into a hot buttery Cray with your fingers and feeling around for the delicious treasures hidden inside, who needs knives and forks!
Fiordland is home to a special marine environment and indeed there is scope for catching a fish for the plate. Whether it’s getting the speargun into action, or dropping a line our beliefs around harvesting are built strongly around sustainability and utmost respect and care for the fish and it’s habitat. Along with other local charter operators, we have a voluntary code of conduct to maintain the legacy our oceans present. You can’t get more Kiwi than breaking open a fresh Kina to devour a tasty snack straight from the ocean to sustain your adventures; and we are committed to ensuring this luxury can be experienced by generations to come.
Conservation, Research, Education
Supporting the Mahi
For decades, the Breaksea Girl has been at the core of ecology, conservation, and scientific work in some of the richest biological locations in the south including Fiordland, Stewart Island and the Sub - Antarctic Islands. We continue to support the mahi to protect and conserve this wild corner of Aotearoa. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, budding birder, keen to get your hands dirty, or wish to provide a donation towards the Tamatea/Dusky Sound Restoration project - get in touch and learn how we can facilitate your commitment to contribute in your way.
Hunting
A taste of the wild
Famous for its excellent hunting opportunities, and a welcome activity in our National Parks to keep the introduced deer numbers manageable. You too can try your luck at bringing the taste of Fiordland alive, wild venison on your plate and bragging rights; all the while, getting a true taste of the wild elements at play in this part of the world. Get in touch and we will let you know what you need to do.
