Day 11

Beautiful views on the boat ride.
Beautiful views on the boat ride.
 We started out the day in Te Anau which comprises about 2,500 residents. We took a quick walk to meet the bus to head to our destination at the Doubtful Sound. In this area there is a long stretch of various national parks that are controlled by the conservation service. We had about a 20-minute bus ride to the first stop where we hopped on the first boat. We took a short trip (50 minutes) across Lake Manapouri. We then jumped on a bus that took us on a scenic route next to a beautiful mountain range of the Southern Alps. This bus ride took us over Wilmot Pass and showed us the vast and thick brush of the countryside. The Wilmot Pass is 670 meters high. 

 

Students & Tour Guide Kate on the boat.

Students & Tour Guide Kate on the boat.


We boarded the next boat and prepared for the three-hour ride throughout the Doubtful Sound. On the ride, the tour guide taught us the differences between sounds and fjords. Fjords are formed by glaciers and are U-shaped. Sounds are carved by the river and river valley and are usually V-shaped.

Waterfall running down the mountainside.
Waterfall running down the mountainside.

This was an incredible journey with even better scenery. We were able to travel along the water out to the coastline where we were able to see many waterfalls. The sides were covered by a steep thick brush. We were also able to see various spots where they had previous landslides.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Seals posing on the rocks.
Seals posing on the rocks.

When we got to the end of the fjord and reached the Tasman Sea. We got to see many seals perched on two different rock islands. The water was quite rough when we got out by the seals but quickly calmed down when we headed into the other side of the Doubtful Sound. We took a short minute of silence to hear the various birds, waters, and wildlife around us. This is a great way to take in the scenery and appreciate the peacefulness of this wonderful place. 

Reflections of the beautiful fjord.
Reflections of the beautiful fjord.

Due to the water being so still, were able to see amazing reflections of the mountains off of the water. They appeared crystal clear and bounced off the water perfectly. 

 

Drs. Walker and Dierson taking in the scenery.
Drs. Walker and Dierson taking in the scenery.

This was a nice relaxing day for the students and allowed them to get a chance to take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy a peaceful day. We had a wonderful time and were able to head back to Te Anau for dinner at leisure.

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