Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Te Anau is a picturesque town surrounded by stunning lakes, snow-capped mountains and lush rainforests. With its serene beauty and tranquil atmosphere, it’s no wonder that Te Anau is considered one of the most scenic towns in New Zealand. And what better way to experience its natural wonders than aboard a scenic cruise! In this post, we will be highlighting the two best city cruises in Te Anau that offer breathtaking views of this enchanting region. From exploring serene lakes to immersing yourself in local wildlife, these cruises offer something for everyone. So come along and discover the beauty of Te Anau from the water!
The 2 Best City Cruises in Te Anau
The 2 Best City Cruises in Te Anau
1. Te Anau: Glowworm Caves Guided Tour
Experience the magic of the subterranean world on the Te Anau Glowworm Caves Guided Tour. This tour begins with a scenic cruise on Lake Te Anau which takes you to the western shores. At the entrance of the cave system, displays provide insight into the geological wonder you are about to explore. Once underground, your knowledgeable guide will point out cave highlights and formations while explaining the history of the caves.
You will witness the power of the river that continues to carve out the cave system, shaping it with sculpted rock whirlpools and a roaring underground waterfall. Deep inside the caves, you will be awed by the thousands of glowworms unique to New Zealand, producing a glittering display in the subterranean darkness.
Note that some bending is required due to low cave entrances and steps, making a reasonable level of agility necessary. This tour is not suitable for wheelchair passengers, those wearing heeled shoes, or infants. Comfortable shoes, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Cameras are not allowed.
Complete your Te Anau adventure with one of the best city cruises available.
2. Milford Sound: Small-Group Tour from Te Anau
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Milford Sound on a small-group tour from Te Anau. Travel through glacier-carved valleys and alongside New Zealand’s largest lake before reaching Fiordland National Park, the largest national park in New Zealand. Throughout the journey, enjoy live commentary from your expert driver/guide and make stops to capture the stunning scenery in photographs. Once you arrive at Milford Sound, embark on a nature cruise to see seals, dolphins, and even Fiordland crested penguins. The tour includes national park fees, morning tea, hotel pickup and drop-off, and a packed lunch (not for infants). Come and explore Milford Sound on this unforgettable full-day tour.
The Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Te Anau
Te Anau is a small town located on the shores of Lake Te Anau in the South Island of New Zealand. Due to its stunning natural beauty and plethora of activities, Te Anau is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. In this post, we will try to answer the top 10 most frequently asked questions about Te Anau.
1) Where is Te Anau located?
Te Anau is located in the southwestern part of the South Island of New Zealand. It is about a two-hour drive from Queenstown, which is the nearest major international airport.
2) What is the best time of year to visit Te Anau?
The best time to visit Te Anau is during the summer months (December-February) when the weather is warm and dry. However, this is also the busiest time of the year, so if you want to avoid crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of spring (September-November) or autumn (March-May).
3) What are the must-see attractions in Te Anau?
There are many must-see attractions in Te Anau, including:
- The Milford Sound
- The Kepler Track
- The Te Anau Glowworm Caves
- The Fiordland National Park
- The Routeburn Track
4) What are the best activities to do in Te Anau?
Te Anau is known for its outdoor activities, and there are many things to do, such as:
- Hiking
- Fishing
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Caving
- Scenic Flights
5) What is the best way to get to Te Anau?
The best way to get to Te Anau is to fly into Queenstown airport and then rent a car or take a bus to Te Anau. You can also take a shuttle or private transfer from the airport directly to Te Anau if you don’t want to drive.
6) Are there any good restaurants in Te Anau?
Te Anau has a range of restaurants and cafes, serving everything from local New Zealand cuisine to international dishes. Some of the most popular restaurants include The Redcliff Cafe, The Ranch Cafe, and The Fat Duck.
7) What is the weather like in Te Anau?
The weather in Te Anau can be variable, but it usually ranges from mild to warm in summer and cold in winter. The average temperature during the summer is around 20°C, while in winter, it can drop to below freezing.
8) Is it easy to find accommodation in Te Anau?
Yes, there are many options for accommodation in Te Anau, including hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and holiday parks. However, during the peak tourist season, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance.
9) What is the cost of living in Te Anau?
The cost of living in Te Anau is relatively high compared to other small towns in New Zealand. However, it is still more affordable than major cities like Auckland and Wellington. The cost of meals, groceries, and accommodation depends on the type and quality of the service you choose.
10) Can I see the Southern Lights from Te Anau?
Yes, it is possible to see the Southern Lights (also known as the Aurora Australis) from Te Anau, but it is not guaranteed. The best time to see the lights is during the winter months when the nights are longer and darker. It is also recommended to get away from the town’s light pollution to improve your chances of seeing the Aurora Australis.
Conclusion
Te Anau is a breathtaking destination with many natural wonders and outdoor activities. We hope that this post has answered some of the most frequently asked questions about Te Anau and has inspired you to plan a visit to this picturesque South Island town.
The 2 Best City Cruises in Te Anau
Are you looking to experience the beauty of Te Anau from a unique perspective? A city cruise can be a great way to do just that! With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to book. In this blog post, we will discuss the 2 best city cruises in Te Anau, based on customer reviews, price, and overall experience.
1. Fiordland Cruises
Fiordland Cruises is one of the top-rated city cruises in Te Anau. This company offers visitors the chance to experience the stunning beauty of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding Fiordland National Park. Their tours range from two hours to overnight trips, so you can pick the one that best suits your schedule.
One of the best things about Fiordland Cruises is that they provide visitors with a truly unique experience. Rather than just showing you the sights, they take you on a journey through history, ecology, and culture. Their knowledgeable guides share stories and information about the area, making the tour both informative and entertaining. Visitors rave about the level of expertise of the crew and how friendly and welcoming they are.
The cruise itself is on a luxury catamaran, equipped with amenities like an on-board chef, bar, and comfortable seating. The catamaran is spacious, allowing visitors to take in the stunning scenery. Visitors love that the boat is not overcrowded, providing a more intimate experience.
Pricing for Fiordland Cruises varies depending on the length of the tour, but they offer competitive pricing for the quality experience they offer. They have a range of packages available, such as their popular ‘Lake Te Anau Discovery Cruise’ and ‘Fiordland Expedition Overnight Cruise.’ Be sure to book early as they often sell out!
2. Real Journeys – Milford Sound Coach and Cruise
Real Journeys is one of the top-rated tour operators in New Zealand, and their Milford Sound Coach and Cruise is one of the best city cruises in Te Anau. The tour starts with a scenic coach ride through the stunning Fiordland National Park, allowing visitors to take in the breathtaking scenery. The coach has large windows, providing the perfect opportunity for photos along the way.
Once you arrive at Milford Sound, visitors enjoy a two-hour cruise through the sound, where you will see some of the most iconic landmarks, such as Mitre Peak, cascading waterfalls, and dolphins playing in the water. There are plenty of photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera.
The cruise itself is on a modern catamaran, equipped with amenities like a free tea and coffee bar, large viewing decks, and comfortable seating. The boat is spacious, ensuring everyone has room to take in the stunning scenery.
One of the best things about the Milford Sound Coach and Cruise is that visitors get to experience two of the most iconic attractions in New Zealand in one day. Real Journeys takes care of all the details, from coach transport and lunch to the stunning cruise through Milford Sound.
Pricing for the Milford Sound Coach and Cruise varies depending on the time of year, but it is worth noting that it is a more expensive option compared to other city cruises. However, the experience is truly world-class and worth the extra cost.
Conclusion
There are many city cruises available in Te Anau, but these two stand out in terms of experience, customer reviews, and overall value. Fiordland Cruises offers a unique and informative journey through the stunning Lake Te Anau and Fiordland National Park, while Real Journeys’ Milford Sound Coach and Cruise provides visitors with an unforgettable experience to see two of New Zealand’s most iconic attractions in one day.
Be sure to book early, especially during peak tourist season, as both of these tours tend to sell out quickly. Whichever city cruise you choose, you are bound to have a breathtaking adventure and make unforgettable memories.
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