This is definitely a trip to take. In fact it’s two trips because there’s the catamaran voyage and the exploration of the glow worm cave.

The boat is fast and the voyage takes 25 minutes each way. The cabin is comfortable and has large windows which provide great views of the mountains and side fjord.

I recommend you go for a window seat on the left-hand/port side on the outward leg to see the coast unfolding. However, if the weather’s ok and you don’t mind bring windswept, travelling on the top gives panoramic views.

I took most of these photos from the small rear quarterdeck because there’s shelter from the elements and you’re not shooting through glass.

Our commentary was by Ryan and was both informative and delivered well with a light touch.

On arrival at the glow worm caves there’s a safety briefing then the passengers are divided into groups of twelve. The first groups go off leaving the remainder to listen to a presentation about the glow worms before going into the caves. (The first groups have this presentation once their tour has finished).

By chance we had the glow worm presentation first and I’m glad we did. It provided the context for what we were about to see in real life.

We were also lucky in having Coleman as our guide. He took us through the glow worm slide/video show with a dry sense of humour and answered questions authoritatively.

I won’t say much about the tour itself as the element of surprise is important to the enjoyment of it. However I can assure you it’s magical.

It’s forbidden to take photos underground, but as we were the last group we were permitted to take a few as we excited without disturbing the glow worms.

During the brief wait for the return boat we had a stroll along the nature trail and saw an arrow-shaped variety of palm which was new to us.

Very good value at NZ$99 per adult.