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Small boat cruising near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a cruise at Milford Sound, viewing the fjord's towering cliffs and clear waters.
Cruise boat near waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Fur seal resting on a rock at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Couple taking selfie on Milford Sound cruise with waterfall in background.
Guided group exploring lush forest on Milford Sound wilderness walk.
Hikers on Milford Track bridge near waterfall, Te Anau, New Zealand.
Bridge over forest stream in Milford Sound, New Zealand, with hikers on a Small-Boat Cruise tour.
Group on bridge with waterfall view during Giant Gate Falls walking tour.
Small boat cruising near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a cruise at Milford Sound, viewing the fjord's towering cliffs and clear waters.
Cruise boat near waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Fur seal resting on a rock at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Couple taking selfie on Milford Sound cruise with waterfall in background.
Guided group exploring lush forest on Milford Sound wilderness walk.
Hikers on Milford Track bridge near waterfall, Te Anau, New Zealand.
Bridge over forest stream in Milford Sound, New Zealand, with hikers on a Small-Boat Cruise tour.
Group on bridge with waterfall view during Giant Gate Falls walking tour.
Small boat cruising near waterfall in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a cruise at Milford Sound, viewing the fjord's towering cliffs and clear waters.
Cruise boat near waterfall at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Fur seal resting on a rock at Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a boat tour at Milford Sound with scenic fjord views.
Couple taking selfie on Milford Sound cruise with waterfall in background.
Guided group exploring lush forest on Milford Sound wilderness walk.
Hikers on Milford Track bridge near waterfall, Te Anau, New Zealand.
Bridge over forest stream in Milford Sound, New Zealand, with hikers on a Small-Boat Cruise tour.
Group on bridge with waterfall view during Giant Gate Falls walking tour.

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

from
NZ$169
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr - 7 hr
Guided tour
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Timeline
Map
Milford Sound Terminal
Start point

Milford Sound Terminal

Get direction

Passes By

Milford Sound Terminal
End point

Milford Sound Terminal

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

TOTAL DURATION5 hours 30 minutes - 6 hours 30 minutes
Timeline
Map
Milford Sound Terminal
Start point

Milford Sound Terminal

Get direction
Deepwater Basin Departure Point

1. Deepwater Basin Departure Point

Start your adventure at Deepwater Basin, where a short water taxi crossing whisks you across to legendary Sandfly Point, the official end of the Milford Track. This ride offers your first taste of Fiordland’s wilderness, with dramatic peaks rising from the fiord and the sense of entering somewhere remote and special.

Sandfly Point (Milford Track Official End/Start)

2. Sandfly Point (Milford Track Official End/Start)

Arthur River Valley Floor

3. Arthur River Valley Floor

Lake Ada Viewpoint

4. Lake Ada Viewpoint

Giant Gate Falls & Swing Bridge

5. Giant Gate Falls & Swing Bridge

Sandfly Point

6. Sandfly Point

Milford Sound Visitor Terminal & Wharf

7. Milford Sound Visitor Terminal & Wharf

Passes By

Milford Sound Terminal
End point

Milford Sound Terminal

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests

  • Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
  • Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
  • Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.

Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests

  • Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
  • Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
  • Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour Milford Sound cruise on a boutique boat
  • Maximum 75 passengers only
  • Expert skipper & guide
  • Close-to-waterfall positioning
  • Wildlife encounter opportunities
  • Onboard commentary

Guided Milford Track walk (if option selected)

  • 10min boat to Sandfly Point
  • Up to 4 hours hiking time
  • Expert hiking guide
  • Track safety briefing and safety gear

Exclusions

  • Lunch & personal snacks (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

  • Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
  • Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as conditions can change rapidly in Milford Sound.
  • Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and it may be cold or wet.
  • Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
  • Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
  • Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
  • Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks, especially if your experience includes a guided walk.

What’s not allowed

  • Smoking is not permitted on board the boat or during the guided walk.
  • Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
  • Drones and other aerial devices are not allowed in Milford Sound.
  • Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
  • Safety is a priority, so the Milford Track guided walk is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years and over the age of 75 years.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
  • The guided walk and boat may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
  • This hike is suitable for people in moderate shape. You'll walk about 7 miles on uneven terrain, with some uphill sections. Expect to be on your feet for around 3.5 hours. Be prepared for wet weather and wear sturdy shoes.

Additional information

  • The experience operates in all weather conditions; cruises and walks may proceed in rain or shine.
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
  • Restroom facilities are available on board the boat.
  • The guided walk portion may involve uneven or slippery surfaces—participation is at your own risk.
  • Life jackets and safety briefings are provided before departure.
  • Photography is encouraged, but please be mindful of other guests and wildlife.
  • Mobile phone coverage is limited in Milford Sound.
  • Pack wisely for the trek. Carry essentials like a lightweight backpack, rain gear, quick-drying clothes, and trekking poles for added support.
  • 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.