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Today was another gorgeous day, which was really lucky as we spent the morning cruising through Milford Sound in Fiordland.
The cruise was fantastic. Although quite a large boat, due to the sheer nature of the moutains, it could get right up against the rock and under the waterfalls. We also saw fur seals basking in the sun. The boat went out into the Tasman Sea before heading back into the sound. The commentary was both humorous and informed.
Milford Sound is difficult to see from the sea, which is why Captain Cook missed it not once but twice. In the end it was discovered by some sealer from Milford Haven, so he decided that would be the name. Some years later another sailor who also hailed from Milford Haven had one look and said something like don't be silly, it looks nothing like Milford Haven, so renamed it Milford Sound.
However, Milford Sound is a fraud! A Sound is formed by a river and back filled by the sea. But Milford was formed by a glacier and back filled by the sea, so it's actually a fiord.
We had opted to visit the underwater observatory, so were dropped off towards the end of our cruise. The observatory has been going for 19 years and go 10 metres below the surface of the water where there is a 360° view of underwater life. Our knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide really added to what was a fascinating experience. We saw black coral, octopus, 11 armed starfish, mosaic fish, numerous other fish and sea creatures, and a diver who also happened to be the founder. A very worthwhile experience.
After another short boat trip back to the harbour, we were reunited with JB for our 290km drive to Queenstown.
Having heard many recommendations, once in Queenstown we made for Botswana Butchery, were greeted by the lovely friendly staff and I enjoyed a venison filet while Bro's lamb was the best meal he'd enjoyed since coming to New Zealand. Highly recommended.
Today we motored 370km.
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