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Milford Sound Cruises
Select Your Experience
- Best for budget-conscious travelers and backpacking enthusiasts traveling through Milford Sound.
- Book this if you’re after a flexible Milford Sound experience that won't break the bank, with optional upgrades to customize your adventure.
- What’s unique: Upgrade your adventure to include a kayaking experience through Harrison Cove or a visit to the Underwater Observatory.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
- Best for budget-conscious travelers and backpacking enthusiasts traveling through Milford Sound.
- Book this if you’re after a flexible Milford Sound experience that won't break the bank, with optional upgrades to customize your adventure.
- What’s unique: Upgrade your adventure to include a kayaking experience through Harrison Cove or a visit to the Underwater Observatory.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
Inclusions
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Complimentary tea or coffee onboard
- Live commentary
- Entry to Underwater Observatory (based on option selected)
- 90-minute guided kayaking experience (if option selected)
- Picnic lunch (if option selected)
Exclusions
- Other food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)
- Tip: head to the upper deck when approaching Stirling Falls – the captain often maneuvers the boat close enough for you to feel the spray.
- Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
- The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.
- The Underwater Observatory is closed until 31st October for scheduled maintenance.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for: families and short-stay visitors to New Zealand, this comprehensive day trip from Queenstown is your ticket to experiencing the best of Fiordland.
- Book this if you: want to combine a scenic drive, short walks, and a cruise all in one action-packed day, with hassle-free transfers.
- What's unique: Explore Milford Sound with curated stops at locations like Mirror Lakes, and Eglington Valley, with the chance to upgrade to a premium, small-group experience.
- Sights seen: Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Four Sisters, Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock, and more!
- Best for: families and short-stay visitors to New Zealand, this comprehensive day trip from Queenstown is your ticket to experiencing the best of Fiordland.
- Book this if you: want to combine a scenic drive, short walks, and a cruise all in one action-packed day, with hassle-free transfers.
- What's unique: Explore Milford Sound with curated stops at locations like Mirror Lakes, and Eglington Valley, with the chance to upgrade to a premium, small-group experience.
- Sights seen: Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound, Four Sisters, Mitre Peak, Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock, and more!
Inclusions
- Full-day tour of Milford Sound
- Round-trip transfers from Queenstown
- Stops with short walks
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Lunch
- Complimentary tea and coffee on-board
- Small-group experience (if option selected)
Exclusions
- Other food and beverages (available to purchase onboard)
- Tip: Head to the bow when near Stirling Falls on the boat to experience a refreshing spray from glacial meltwater!
- The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau, while the premium small-group experience would be perfect for solo travelers looking to mingle.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau, with an immersive fiord trekking experience upgrade.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, or upgrade to include a guided 5.5km trek of Milford Track.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau, while the premium small-group experience would be perfect for solo travelers looking to mingle.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau, with an immersive fiord trekking experience upgrade.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, or upgrade to include a guided 5.5km trek of Milford Track.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Milford Sound from Te Anau
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Round-trip transfers with stops for short walks
- Lunch (if option selected)
- Complimentary tea & coffee on-board
- Small group experience (if option selected)
- Guided walk along the Milford Track (if option selected)
- Water taxi to Sandfly Point (if option selected)
- Tea break at Giant Gate Waterfall (if option selected)
- Pick up from Te Anau
- Scenic drive to Milford Sound by air-conditioned coach
- Photo ops stop at Te Anau Downs, Eglinton Valley & more
- Short walks or extended guided walks around Lake Mistletoe, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn & more
- Milford Sound cruise
- Drop-off at Te Anau
- Tip: Pack motion sickness tablets for the winding Milford Road. Even if you don't usually get car sick, the serpentine route can catch you off guard.
- The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for marine life enthusiasts and families with kids who want to see what lies beneath the dark waters of the fiord.
- Book this if you want the full spectrum of Milford's ecosystem – it's like being in a real-life nature documentary, and a round-trip transfer add-on for convenience.
- What's unique: You'll descend 10 meters below the surface to observe rare black coral and a variety of fish species in their natural habitat at the underwater observatory.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, rare Fiordland Crested Penguin, black coral, Dale Point, Seal Rock, Hanging Garden, Four Sisters, and more.
- Best for marine life enthusiasts and families with kids who want to see what lies beneath the dark waters of the fiord.
- Book this if you want the full spectrum of Milford's ecosystem – it's like being in a real-life nature documentary, and a round-trip transfer add-on for convenience.
- What's unique: You'll descend 10 meters below the surface to observe rare black coral and a variety of fish species in their natural habitat at the underwater observatory.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, rare Fiordland Crested Penguin, black coral, Dale Point, Seal Rock, Hanging Garden, Four Sisters, and more.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)
- Round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- 1-hour access to Underwater Observatory
- English-speaking guide
- Complimentary tea and coffee onboard
- Picnic lunch (check menu here) (if option selected)
- Tip: Remember to pack waterproof outerwear. Rain is common in Milford Sound and, it enhances the beauty of the area by creating temporary waterfalls.
- While there is wildlife in Milford Sound, sightings can't be guaranteed as these are wild animals in their natural habitat.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Ramp is available on the vessel for easy access.
- The Underwater Observatory is closed until 31st October for scheduled maintenance.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for time-conscious travelers seeking a premium experience to visit Milford Sound in less than a day, with convenient flight transfers.
- Book this if you are looking for both aerial and sea-level views of Milford Sound without the hassle of an hours-long drive to and from Queenstown.
- What's unique: If you opt for return flights, your adventure won't take more than half a day. If you opt for return by road, you get to enjoy some scenic stops.
- Sights seen: Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock, Fairy Falls, Stirling Falls, St Annes Point Lighthouse, Tasman Sea, and more.
- Best for time-conscious travelers seeking a premium experience to visit Milford Sound in less than a day, with convenient flight transfers.
- Book this if you are looking for both aerial and sea-level views of Milford Sound without the hassle of an hours-long drive to and from Queenstown.
- What's unique: If you opt for return flights, your adventure won't take more than half a day. If you opt for return by road, you get to enjoy some scenic stops.
- Sights seen: Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock, Fairy Falls, Stirling Falls, St Annes Point Lighthouse, Tasman Sea, and more.
Inclusions
- Full-day or half-day tour of Milford Sound from Queenstown (based on option selected)
- Small-group experience
- Round-trip flight transfers from Queenstown (if option selected)
- One-way coach to Milford Sound (if option selected)
- Return flight transfer to Queenstown (if option selected)
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Live commentary
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Complimentary tea, coffee, & water on cruise
Exclusions
- Food and drinks (available for purchase onboard)
- Tip: Look out for playful dolphins and, if you’re lucky, catch a glimpse of the rare and elusive Fiordland Crested Penguin.
- The flyover from Queenstown over Milford Sound and back to Queenstown is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
- Passengers weighing 140kg (308lb) or more should make a note during booking. For helicopter activities, there is a weight limit of 116kg (255lb).
- A discrepancy exceeding 15kg (33lb) from the declared weight at check-in may lead to rescheduling, depending on availability.
- This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Best for: Active families with older kids, groups of friends, and marine-life enthusiasts looking for an immersive and adventurous experience.
- Book this if you want a mix of activities and nature in your Milford Sound experience.
- What's unique: Combines cruising, underwater observation, and kayaking in one experience.
- Sights seen: Milford Sound from three perspectives: cruise boat, underwater, and kayak-level and Underwater Observatory.
- Best for: Active families with older kids, groups of friends, and marine-life enthusiasts looking for an immersive and adventurous experience.
- Book this if you want a mix of activities and nature in your Milford Sound experience.
- What's unique: Combines cruising, underwater observation, and kayaking in one experience.
- Sights seen: Milford Sound from three perspectives: cruise boat, underwater, and kayak-level and Underwater Observatory.
Inclusions
- 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound
- Expert nature guide
- 1.5 hour kayaking experience
- Specialist kayak guide
- Kayaking equipment
- Entry to Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
- Picnic lunch (vegan, vegetarian, an gluten-free options available on request)
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Tip: Treat yourself to an overnight stay at a chalet in Milford Sound and enjoy its serene atmosphere after the crowds have left.
- This experience is wheelchair accessible.
- Ramps and elevators are available at the venue for easy access.
- Your safety comes first. So, pregnant women are restricted from participating in this experience.
- Children aged 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult in a double kayak for the kayaking experience.
- Timetables, departures, and vessels are subject to change due to safety precautions, weather conditions, or maintenance requirements.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Plunge into a natural adventure with New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory and a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise with lively commentary.
- Descend 10m to observe underwater life at the observatory. Gaze at black coral, fish, and other wildlife while enclosed in an AC viewing room.
- Witness the sheer grandeur of the fiord's landscapes, from the thundering waterfalls to the tranquility of the rainforests and towering peaks.
- Enjoy the thrill of spotting wildlife, from seals basking in the sun to dolphins frolicking in the water, or even rare Fiordland Crested Penguins.
- Have a close encounter with nature and the best viewing experience aboard a small boat as you drink glacial water and touch natural artifacts.
- Plunge into a natural adventure with New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory and a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise with lively commentary.
- Descend 10m to observe underwater life at the observatory. Gaze at black coral, fish, and other wildlife while enclosed in an AC viewing room.
- Witness the sheer grandeur of the fiord's landscapes, from the thundering waterfalls to the tranquility of the rainforests and towering peaks.
- Enjoy the thrill of spotting wildlife, from seals basking in the sun to dolphins frolicking in the water, or even rare Fiordland Crested Penguins.
- Have a close encounter with nature and the best viewing experience aboard a small boat as you drink glacial water and touch natural artifacts.
Inclusions
- 2 to 3-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Live commentary
- Entry to Underwater Observatory
- Tea & coffee
- Tip: Look out for Mitre Peak, one of the most photographed features in Milford Sound due to its distinctive shape.
- This experience is wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
- Ramp is available on the boat for easy access.
- Milford Sound is a natural environment so wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
- The operator reserves the right to amend timetables, cancel cruise departures, and substitute vessels at any time for safety or operational reasons including due to unsafe weather conditions or vessel maintenance.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore the beauty of Fiordland National Park on a guided walk along the Milford Track and a scenic cruise on Milford Sound.
- Take a scenic water taxi to the notorious Sandfly Point, then hike 5.5 km to Giant Gate Falls. Head to the swing bridge spanning the river for the best view.
- Enjoy a nature cruise on Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea and admire the stunning views of Mitre Peak, Pembroke Glacier, and waterfalls.
- Keep your eyes peeled for seals basking on the rocks and dolphins frolicking by from the observation deck or the large windows on board.
- Enjoy hassle-free return transfers from Te Anau on a small group tour with scenic stops and photo ops along the way.
- Explore the beauty of Fiordland National Park on a guided walk along the Milford Track and a scenic cruise on Milford Sound.
- Take a scenic water taxi to the notorious Sandfly Point, then hike 5.5 km to Giant Gate Falls. Head to the swing bridge spanning the river for the best view.
- Enjoy a nature cruise on Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea and admire the stunning views of Mitre Peak, Pembroke Glacier, and waterfalls.
- Keep your eyes peeled for seals basking on the rocks and dolphins frolicking by from the observation deck or the large windows on board.
- Enjoy hassle-free return transfers from Te Anau on a small group tour with scenic stops and photo ops along the way.
Inclusions
- Guided walk along the Milford Track
- Cruise along Milford Sound with live commentary
- Water taxi to Sandfly Point
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Te Anau
- Small group of up to 12 guests
- Tea break at Giant Gate Waterfall
- Complimentary tea & coffee on the cruise
- Pick up from your Te Anau accommodation
- Check-in at Milford Sound boat terminal
- Water taxi ride to Sandfly Point
- Guided walk to Giant Gate Waterfall on Milford Track along Arthur River & Lake Ada
- Tea break at Giant Gate Waterfall
- Milford Sound cruise
- Drop off to your Te Anau accommodation
- Tip: Carry a bird guidebook or a birdwatching app. The track is home to various bird species. You might spot rare birds like the Fiordland tomtit or the South Island robin.
- Please wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the hike.
- The hike is not suitable for children under 8 years old.
- This hike requires some fitness, as the track covers an 11 km distance and typically takes around 3.5 hours to complete.
- The average walking speed is approximately 3 km per hour, and there's a modest 50-meter elevation gain.
- Bring a day pack with a warm top (synthetic or wool), a waterproof jacket, warm hat and gloves, insect repellent, snack, suitable outdoor, active wear (avoid jeans and streetwear), and a change of clothes and dry shoes for wet days.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Experience a unique perspective of Milford Sound with the Milford Sound Scenic Flyover, offering breathtaking aerial views.
- Delight in the opportunity to enjoy a window seat during the flight, thanks to the seat layout that ensures everyone can enjoy the remarkable scenery.
- Enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off from your Queenstown accommodation and take a flight over the majestic Southern Alps towards Milford Sound.
- Marvel at the panoramic vistas of Lake Wakatipu and glacier-fed braided rivers as you soar into the stunning Mt. Aspiring National Park.
- Traverse the awe-inspiring landscapes of Fiordland National Park, witnessing the rugged beauty of the West Coast and the vastness of the Tasman Sea.
- Experience all this magic with a small cozy tour group of just seven passengers.
- Experience a unique perspective of Milford Sound with the Milford Sound Scenic Flyover, offering breathtaking aerial views.
- Delight in the opportunity to enjoy a window seat during the flight, thanks to the seat layout that ensures everyone can enjoy the remarkable scenery.
- Enjoy hotel pick-up and drop-off from your Queenstown accommodation and take a flight over the majestic Southern Alps towards Milford Sound.
- Marvel at the panoramic vistas of Lake Wakatipu and glacier-fed braided rivers as you soar into the stunning Mt. Aspiring National Park.
- Traverse the awe-inspiring landscapes of Fiordland National Park, witnessing the rugged beauty of the West Coast and the vastness of the Tasman Sea.
- Experience all this magic with a small cozy tour group of just seven passengers.
Inclusions
- Professional English-speaking pilot
- Hotel pick-up & drop-off Queenstown
- Child/booster seats and baby earmuffs are available on request
- 11 seater van for transfers
- Guaranteed window seat
- From check-in 30 minutes before departure, to landing back at Queenstown Airport, is approximately 2 hours. Please note, this does not include time for self-driving or using our complimentary transfers.
- Bring along any essential medication, sunglasses, camera, warm clothing layers, comfortable footwear, and water bottle.
- Even though the aircraft is heated, it is recommended to bring light warm clothing layers.
- Your scenic flyover from Queenstown over Milford Sound and back to Queenstown is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.
- All seats on the aircraft are window seats. Passenger seat allocation however is at the Pilots’ discretion due to the weight and balance of the plane.
- Your experience may be subject to change due to weather conditions.
- The cruising altitude is weather-dependent and ranges between 5,000-10,000 feet.
- New Junior earmuffs for our young passengers. They have an impressive noise reduction rating of 22db and are approved to Global Safety Standards.
- For operational and safety reasons, we request passenger weights during booking to ensure compliance with aircraft weight limits and balance requirements. Please notify if any passenger is 140kg (308lb) or over. Helicopter activities have a weight limit of 116kg (255lb) and require prior notification. Exceeding your declared weight by 15kg (33lb) at check-in may result in rescheduling, subject to availability.
- This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Why go on a Milford Sound cruise?
Witness nature's majesty
From the distinctive Mitre Peak to the sprays of Stirling Falls cascading down over 1,500 feet and inky black waters that hold both fresh and seawater— nature’s artistry knows no bounds here.
Fauna that you’ll find nowhere else
Set your sights on rare species on your Milford Sound cruise tour like the New Zealand fur seals, a variety of dolphins, the endangered Fiordland Crested Penguin, the rare blue duck, alpine parrots, and if you’re lucky — a whale!
Milford magic on foot
Get the opportunity to go beyond the cruise and elevate your adventure with a guided small-group walking tour on the legendary Milford Track.
Rich history & local lore
Don’t just navigate waters but learn all about Milford Sound’s journey and role in the Maori culture as well as European settlers from your cruise’s expert skipper.
Exclusive views, limited crowd
Experience Milford Sound's beauty intimately with carefully curated tours that prioritize personal encounters over crowded decks.
Your Milford Sound cruise options
Ready for a Milford Sound adventure crafted just for you? Whether you're at Milford Sound itself, starting in scenic Te Anau, or launching from the vibrant Queenstown, we've curated the ultimate cruise experiences designed to perfectly complement your starting point.
From Te Anau
From Te Anau: Milford Track, Cruise & Return Transfers
- Get easy end-to-end transfers to and from Te Anau. Enjoy a unique combined experience in a small group — an expert guided trek on the Milford Track with a scenic cruise featuring live commentary.
- Duration: 12 hours
From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Nature Walk & Return Transfers
- Enjoy stunning views from a glass-roof coach on a Te Anau to Milford Sound journey with guided nature walks, a luxury catamaran cruise, and the option to upgrade for a delectable onboard lunch.
- Duration: 7-8 hours
From Queenstown
From Queenstown: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers
- These tickets get you the ultimate hassle-free Milford Sound adventure with a guided coach tour that starts with a hotel pickup, followed by a scenic cruise with lunch, and an optional flight return.
- Duration: 12 hours
From Queenstown: Scenic Flyover & Milford Sound Cruise
- Gain a unique perspective on this round-trip flight experience from Queenstown to Milford Sound, accompanied by an English-speaking guide, and relax on a cruise with reserved seating and complimentary snacks.
- Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
At Milford Sound
2-Hour Cruise of Milford Sound
- Relax on this 2-hour journey and look at Milford Sound’s best stops along the way. Learn from live commentary by the expert Skipper, and warm yourself with complimentary tea and coffee on-board
- Duration: 2 hours
Milford Track to Giant Gate Falls Small-Group Guided Tour
- Join a small, intimate group for a personalized 11km walking tour led by an expert English-speaking guide. Explore the Milford Track and Giant Gate Waterfalls, with an optional cruise for added adventure.
- Duration: 5-7 hours
Fjords, waterfalls, dolphins – what to expect on your Milford Sound cruise?
As one of the wettest and lushest places in the world, Milford Sound allows you to dip your toes into plenty of activities. Some of the top things to experience during your Milford Sound visit include:
Adventure galore
Perfect for: Thrill Seekers
Activities to look out for:
- Kayaking through crystal-clear waters
- Hiking along ancient trails
- Exploring underwater with scuba diving
- Heli-hiking or heli-fishing reveals hidden gems from the sky.
Guided tours
Perfect for: History geeks & hiking enthusiasts
Activities to look out for:
- Informative guided cruises around the fjord.
- Enjoy expert-led small-group walking tours on Milford Track, one of the Great Walks of New Zealand.
Natural sights
Perfect for: Nature lovers
Sights to look out for:
- Bridal Veil Falls & Lady Bowen Falls
- Playful seals and dolphins dancing in the fiords
- Beneath the surface, you’ll discover a world of black corals.
Scenic flights
Perfect for: Travelers looking for a unique experience
Sights to look out for:
- Mitre Peak & Pembroke Glacier.
- Milford's famous jade deposits, also known as pounamu or greenstone.
Milford Sound – 1, 2 & 3-day itineraries
If you're ready to kick-start planning an unforgettable journey to Milford Sound—a place where nature and adventure await at every turn, here are some itineraries that can help you make the most of your time:
Day 1: Arrival & Milford Sound essentials
Morning:
- Trek the Milford Sound Track with an expert guide.
Afternoon:
- Hop on a guided cruise to enjoy the fjord’s best gems while feasting on a lunch onboard.
- Explore the biodiversity below the water at Milford Sound Underwater Observatory.
Evening:
- Take a night walk at the Rainforest Camper Park.
- Enjoy the crystal clear skies and stargaze amidst Fiordland National Park. You’ll want to stay up for this view.
Day 2: More adventure awaits
Morning:
- Go kayaking in the fjord’s black inky waters.
- Get moving and hike through a nature trail in the rainforest with a local expert.
Afternoon:
- Enjoy a hearty meal at Pio Pio, Milford’s only fine-dining restaurant.
- For thrill-seekers: Get your blood pumping with a snorkeling, heli-hiking, or heli-fishing experience.
- For nature lovers: The lush Fiordland National Park awaits you. Walk foreshore and catch glimpses of rare flora and fauna.
Evening:
- Experience the region under the moonlight with a scenic overnight cruise.
Day 3: Leisure exploration
Morning:
- Take a stroll and complete missed spots, if any. Or revisit your favorite spot.
Afternoon:
- Head over to the Milford Sound Discovery Centre to go souvenir shopping and grab a bite at the cafe there whilst enjoying the moody skies.
Evening:
- Depart from Milford Sound: If you’re heading back to Queenstown, consider a scenic flight for a bird’s eye view and to see hidden gems up close.
- If you’re heading back to Te Anau, consider a detour to Doubtful Sound or Te Anau Glowworm Caves.
See all photos
Plan your visit to Milford Sound
Timings
Best time to visit
Getting there
Return transfers
Milford Track
Lodging
Food
Visitor tips
Timings:
- Guided cruises: 8:50 AM, 11:10 AM, 1:30 PM, and 3:55 PM (daily)
- Guided walking tours: 8:30 AM and 8:45 AM
- Day trips from Queenstown/Te Anau (with transfers): 7:30 AM onwards (Queenstown), November 1 to April 30: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM; May 1 to October 31: Daily 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (Te Anau)
- Milford Sound scenic flights: 9 AM
Duration:
- Guided cruises: Approximately 2 hours
- Guided walking tours: Approximately 6 hours
- Day trips from Queenstown/Te Anau (with transfers): Approximately 7 hours (half-day) and 12 hours (full-day)
- Milford Sound scenic flights: Approximately1 hour 20 minutes (without transfers) and 4 hours 30 minutes (with transfers)
Average temperatures:
- Spring (October to November): 7°C – 16°C
- Summer (December to March): 10°C – 19°C
- Autumn (April to Mid-May): 5°C – 12°C
- Winter (Late May to September): 1°C – 9°C
Wettest months: December and January.
The best time to explore Milford Sound's top sights is during spring (October to November) and autumn (March to mid-May). With cooler temperatures ranging from 4°C to 18°C, these seasons offer an optimal experience. Expect regular rainfall when traveling through this region. For a stunning view of snowy mountaintops, winter showcases a picturesque contrast but check for avalanche warnings as road closures may occur. between winter and summer depends on your personal preferences.
Milford Sound location
Milford Sound or Piopiotahi, is nested in the southwestern corner of New Zealand's South Island. It is located within Fiordland National Park. Find on Maps
From Te Anau
- Day-trip transfers: Enjoy modern coaches, end-to-end transfers, and expert guides with your day-trip tickets.
- Bus: One bus departs Te Anau for Milford Sound. It's an approximately 3-hour ride.
- Car: Milford Sound is a 1.5-hour drive from Te Anau. However, beware of challenging roads.
From Queenstown
- Day-trip transfers: Get seamless hotel transfers in modern glass-roof coaches with your Milford Sound day tour. tickets.
- Flight: Take a 90-minute scenic flight to Milford Sound with hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.
- Car: Milford Sound is an approximately 3 hours 30 minutes drive from Queenstown.
With Milford Sound day trip tickets, enjoy a stress-free journey, with end-to-end transfers and the freedom to savor every scene along the way.
- Hotel pick-ups & drop-offs: When booking your Milford Sound day trip online, opt for a pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Queenstown or Te Anau. Talk about convenience, at your doorstep.
- Reserved round-trip hassle-free commute: Ensure a stress-free commute with reserved round-trip transfers that are also curated for the complete Milford Sound adventure.
- Spacious & comfortable glass-roof coaches: Travel in comfort and style. Aboard spacious glass-roof coaches, that offer an unrivaled view of the scenic landscapes and moody skies.
- Scenic flight transfer options: If you want a unique commute option, take a scenic flight between Queenstown and Milford Sound. You can catch some of the rarest gems from up above.
Milford Track is one of the best Great Walks of New Zealand. It winds through rainforests and alpine passes in Fiordland National Park.
- Total distance: 53.5 km
- Best time to hike: End of October to end of April
- Great Walk season: End of October to April
- Off-Great Walk season: May to the end of October
- Hiking difficulty: Easy to medium
- Getting there: Milford track is only reachable via private modes of transport so consider booking a day trip or tour with transfers included for a worry-free visit.
- Tours: While it takes 4 days to complete the entire track, opting for a shorter Milford Track tour during your day trip is also feasible for those with limited time. It’ll allow you to explore the track and learn from an experienced guide.
One of the best ways to experience Milford Sound is by booking a cruise with onboard dining, where lunch is included. Enjoy complimentary snacks and hot beverages during your tour as well.
While there's only one dining restaurant in Milford Sound, there are a few small eateries to explore beyond your cruise:
- Pio Pio Restaurant: Enjoy fine dining in a World Heritage setting at Milford Sound's only restaurant. Indulge in locally sourced delights, a casual vibe, and 7-day availability for both lodge guests and day visitors.
- Discover Milford Sound Information Centre & Cafe: Stop for a bite to eat and learn more about the area at this spot. Enjoy barista-made coffee, light snacks, and lunch meals.
- Weatherproof your adventure: Pack rainwear as it rains in Milford Sound throughout the year. These are also handy during waterfall explorations.
- Essentials checklist: Don't forget medication, sunglasses, a camera, insect repellant, layers, comfy shoes, and a trusty water bottle.
- Sky-high comfort: When on a scenic flight, bring ear-muffs, especially for the little ones.
- Furry friends stay home: Pets aren't allowed on Milford Sound tours.
- Accessibility: For easy boarding, bring foldable wheelchairs and prams. However, adventure activities at Milford Sound are not accessible to people with disabilities.
- Strategic stays: Maximize your experience by staying in Te Anau or Queenstown for seamless transfers and a smoother stay.
- Mind the motion: If prone to motion sickness, consider bringing motion sickness bands or medication. The long journey and the boat ride can get a bit choppy.
Frequently asked questions about Milford Sound cruises
What types of Milford Sound cruises are there?
You can choose from a variety of Milford Sound cruise experiences, including guided cruises, small-group walking tours on the legendary Milford Track with an addition of cruises, combo cruises with nature walks, and scenic flights for an aerial perspective.
How long does a Milford Sound cruise last?
The duration of Milford Sound cruises varies based on the specific tour you choose. Guided cruises typically last around 2 hours, while combo tours with transfers can extend to a full-day experience.
What is included in a typical Milford Sound cruise package?
A typical Milford Sound cruise package includes guided commentary by expert skippers, opportunities to witness iconic sights like Mitre Peak and waterfalls, and complimentary amenities such as tea and coffee on-board. You can also opt for packages with walking tours, scenic flights, day trips, transfers and meals too.
How much does a Milford Sound cruise cost?
Prices for Milford Sound cruises vary based on the type of experience you select. A guided cruise starts from NZD 87.
What should I wear on a Milford Sound cruise?
We recommend wearing comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and bringing a waterproof jacket/rainwear, as Milford Sound experiences regular rainfall throughout the year. We also recommend dressing in warm layers.
What should I bring with me on a Milford Sound cruise?
Essentials to bring on a Milford Sound cruise include rainwear, medication, sunglasses, a camera, insect repellent, layers for changing weather, comfortable shoes, and a reusable water bottle.
Are Milford Sound cruises suitable for people with disabilities?
While the cruises are generally accessible, adventure activities may pose challenges for individuals with disabilities. Folding wheelchairs and prams are welcome, but certain activities may not be suitable.
What's the best time to take a Milford Sound cruise?
The best times to visit Milford Sound are during spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May). However, it's crucial to be prepared for regular rainfall, which occurs throughout the year.
Are there any restrictions on photography during the Milford Sound cruise?
There are no specific restrictions on photography during the cruise. Feel free to capture the breathtaking landscapes, waterfalls, and unique marine life.
Do Milford Sound cruise tours operate in all weather conditions?
While Milford Sound experiences rainfall throughout the year, the tours generally operate in various weather conditions. In case of adverse weather, alternative arrangements may be made.
Can I book a one-way Milford Sound cruise and return by another means of transport?
Yes, you have the flexibility to book a cruise, travel to Milford Sound by coach, and return via another means of transport, such as a scenic flight or coach, for a unique experience.
What languages are the guided commentaries on Milford Sound cruise in?
The guided commentaries are primarily in English, providing valuable insights into Milford Sound's history, culture, and natural wonders.
How can I get to Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is situated in the southwest of New Zealand's South Island. You can reach Milford Sound by various means, including guided coach tours from Te Anau or Queenstown, scenic flights, and private transfers. Additionally, day trips with transfers provide a seamless and convenient way to access Milford Sound.
Are there meals available on a Milford Sound cruise?
Yes, meals are available on Milford Sound cruises. The 2-hour cruise offers complimentary tea and coffee, while other experiences, such as the cruise with lunch or scenic flight and cruise combo, provide options for onboard dining, allowing you to savor delicious meals against the backdrop of Milford Sound's landscapes.