Question 1

When should I visit Fiordland New Zealand?

Accepted Answer

Each season brings different beauty to Fiordland. SEA Fiordland operate all year round to enable visitors to enjoy the various elements of magic that each season brings.

Question 2

When should I charter with SEA Fiordland?

Accepted Answer

SEA Fiordland operates all year round as each season creates different offerings. Spring is great for wildlife, Summer is stunning for long days and the most rainfall, April is a great time for attracting hunters for the roar, and Winter offers calm cooler days, stunning diving due to clear waters, and photo opportunities galore. 
In summary, anytime of year is magic!

Question 3

Do you accommodate dietary requirements?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our private chef can cater to dietary requirements. However, since SEA Fiordland offers remote adventures, it's crucial to inform us of any dietary needs at the time of booking.

Question 4

Do you have any age restrictions for guests?

Accepted Answer

SEA Fiordland welcomes guests of all ages. Children 7 years and older are welcome if accompanied by an adult. Please note, there are no child-minding facilities onboard, and the crew cannot provide child-minding services. Children 7 years and older must occupy a regular passenger berth and pay full fare. If you have preferences regarding traveling with children, please inform us when booking.

Question 5

Can we play music onboard?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can. Your playlists can be shared via bluetooth. Set the tone of your charter by playing your favourite music.

Question 6

Can I smoke or vape onboard?

Accepted Answer

The Tasman Explorer is a non-smoking vessel. However, smoking is permitted on the top deck if it is safe to do so and does not interfere with other guests' experiences.

Question 7

What essentials should I pack for my trip?

Accepted Answer

Every SEA Fiordland trip is fully catered. Here's what you should pack: a sense of adventure, any alcohol and soft drinks, comfortable clothing for all seasons (packed in dry bags or plastic bags), light leggings and long-sleeved tops for sandflies, good wet weather gear, comfortable footwear, personal medication (including pain relief and sea sickness pills), toiletries, earplugs, sunscreen, insect repellent, cameras and chargers (power points available on the boat), sweets and chocolate, any dietary-specific food (we cater for Gluten Free and Dairy Free if notified in advance). Divers need a dive certificate, sausage, whistle, wetsuit, serviced BCDs, flippers, and any other dive equipment (except weight belts and tanks). Hunters need firearms, a valid firearms license, PLB or similar, a trigger lock, and a DOC hunting permit.

Question 8

What are the best ways to reach Te Anau or Manapouri?

Accepted Answer

Te Anau and Manapouri are about a 2-hour drive from Queenstown, the nearest airport. You can hire a car or use a bus service like www.tracknet.net. If you need help with transport, email our team at hello@seafiordland.com. SEA Fiordland will then manage your travel arrangements, either by flying into the vessel or a boat/bus combo into Deep Cove. We recommend staying a night before and after your charter in Te Anau or Manapouri in case of weather changes.

Question 9

Will I get sea sick?

Accepted Answer

There are no guarantees but we do find whilst in the Fiords, there is plenty of shelter in the internal waters. We do carry sea sickness pills onboard.

Question 10

What is the water temperature in Fiordland?

Accepted Answer

In winter the temperature sits around 11-12 degrees and is slightly warmer in the summer.

Question 11

What fishing equipment is available?

Accepted Answer

We have rods, reels, tackle, sinkers and craypots onboard the vessel. You are welcome to bring your own gear, jigs, rigs or anything you like to use

Question 12

Is there cellphone reception and internet access on the boat?

Accepted Answer

There is no mobile phone reception in Fiordland, which offers a perfect chance to disconnect and enjoy the wilderness. However, we do provide internet access on the Tasman Explorer. Please ensure your device is on silent to maintain the tranquility for other guests. If you need internet access, arrange it before your trip by emailing hello@seafiordland.com. A usage fee applies. In emergencies, friends and family can contact our land-based team at 0272946801 or hello@seafiordland.com.

Frequently asked questions