Tourism operator Southern Discoveries is focusing on the future of tourism in Milford Sound. The sale of its Queenstown vessel to RealNZ will enable further investment in its Milford Sound and coaching operations. This will also see the retention of Spirit of Queenstown on Lake Wakatipu, servicing RealNZ’s Walter Peak experiences.
Spirit of Queenstown was built and brought to service by Southern Discoveries for its Mt Nicholas Farm Experience in 2014. Southern Discoveries used STAPP funds and additional owner contributions to revive its experiences in Milford Sound and Queenstown with the tourism downturn because of the pandemic.
Southern Discoveries is now the market leader in both day trips to Milford from Queenstown and the cruise operator of choice in Milford Sound. The sale of its Queenstown vessel enables the organisation to focus on its core tourism ventures in Milford Sound and the coach services that support it.
Southern Discoveries has been owned and operated by the Skeggs Group since 2009, and incoming CEO Kerry Walker welcomes the organisation's focus on Milford Sound.
“Our focus has shifted from surviving COVID to looking towards the future. We’re excited about the tourism journey ahead, developing and building our Milford Sound and coaching experiences,” said Walker.
“It’s a clear signal that tourism is on the positive rebound and that Southern Discoveries are heading towards a sustainable future.”
