Milford Sound Tours

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
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Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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2-Hour Milford Sound Cruise
Sightseeing Cruises
4.5(74)
2-Hour Milford Sound Cruise
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from
NZ$125
From Queenstown: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers
Lunch Cruises
4.5(22)
From Queenstown: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers
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Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$245
From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Nature Walk, Lunch & Return Transfers
Lunch Cruises
4.5(27)
From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Nature Walk, Lunch & Return Transfers
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Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$185
From Queenstown: Scenic Flyover & Milford Sound Cruise
Airplane Tours
3.8(4)
From Queenstown: Scenic Flyover & Milford Sound Cruise
Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$485

2-Hour Milford Sound Cruise

from
NZ$125
Free Cancellation

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

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Mobile Ticket
2 hr.

From Queenstown: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers

from
NZ$245
Free Cancellation

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

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Transfers Included
Hotel Pickup
Meals Included
4 hr. 30 min. - 12 hr.

From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Nature Walk, Lunch & Return Transfers

from
NZ$185
Free Cancellation

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

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Transfers Included
Hotel Pickup
Meals Included
8 hr. - 9 hr.

From Queenstown: Scenic Flyover & Milford Sound Cruise

from
NZ$485
Free Cancellation

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

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Transfers Included
Hotel Pickup
4 hr. 30 min. - 8 hr.
Milford Sound Scenic Flyover Tour from Queenstown
Day Trips
Milford Sound Scenic Flyover Tour from Queenstown
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Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$440
Milford Sound Cruise with Underwater Observatory Access
Sightseeing Cruises
5.0(1)
Milford Sound Cruise with Underwater Observatory Access
Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$165
Milford Cruise, Underwater Observatory Tickets, Kayaking & Lunch
Lunch Cruises
Milford Cruise, Underwater Observatory Tickets, Kayaking & Lunch
Mobile Ticket
from
NZ$295

Milford Sound Scenic Flyover Tour from Queenstown

from
NZ$440
Free Cancellation

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

Instant Confirmation
Mobile Ticket
Transfers Included
Hotel Pickup
1 hr. 19 min.

Milford Sound Cruise with Underwater Observatory Access

from
NZ$165
Mobile Ticket
3 hr.

Milford Cruise, Underwater Observatory Tickets, Kayaking & Lunch

from
NZ$295
Mobile Ticket
Meals Included
6 hr.

Milford Sound Tours | Your Guide to an Unforgettable Fiord Experience

Going on a Milford Sound tour is stepping into a postcard come to life. Imagine towering waterfalls rushing down emerald forests, sheer cliffs reaching for the clouds, and a mirror-like fiord reflecting the scenery above. Milford Sound tours offer something for everyone - from peaceful cruises to thrilling sky adventures.

Choose your journey by land or air: coach tours with cruises or flights with cruises. No matter where you start, whether Queenstown, Te Anau, or Milford Sound, there's a tour curated just for you to create unforgettable memories.

Why Take a Milford Sound tour?

Couple enjoying the view at Milford Sound
  • Expert insights: Gain in-depth knowledge about Milford Sound's geology, wildlife, and history through informative commentary from experienced guides.
  • Hassle-free transfers: Your tours come with round-trip transfers via glass-roof AC coach from either Queenstown or Te Anau so that you can enjoy the scenery, uninterrupted. 
  • Efficient exploration: Maximize your time with a guided tour, ensuring you cover key landmarks like Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, and Stirling Falls efficiently.
  • Comfortable luxury cruises: Experience the attraction in comfort on specialized vessels, whether it's the glass-roofed Gem of the Sound or the spacious Maiden of Milford.
  • Aerial views: Hop on a guided scenic flight tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound and experience views like none other from the sky. 
  • Milford Track: Go beyond the cruises and roads and venture into a slice of Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks with a local expert. A complete adventure through and through.

Which Milford Sound tour is right for you: Milford Sound road trips vs. scenic flights?

Milford Sound is best experienced through tours. No matter your choice, Milford Sound promises an unforgettable adventure. Make sure to choose the tour that best suits your travel style. Here are some factors to consider to help you choose:

  • Time: Coach journeys take longer (around 4-5 hours each way) compared to scenic flights (30-45 minutes). So if you’re short on time and based in Queenstown, Scenic Flights might be more suited for you (provided you’re okay with heights)
  • Budget: Scenic flights are generally more expensive than coach tours. So if saving money is your priority, and don’t mind a longer tour, go for a coach tour from Queenstown or Te Anau. If you’re already at Milford Sound, the tours are even more cost-friendly as they eliminate travel costs. 
  • Experience: Coach tours offer the chance to explore the stunning scenery of Fiordland on the way to Milford Sound and you get to see spots up close. Scenic flights provide a thrilling aerial perspective you won't get on the road. It’s a unique way to experience Milford Sound. If you’re in Queenstown, you can opt for a one-way coach tour and a return flight tour to get the best of both worlds. 
  • Fitness: Cruise and flight tours are suitable for all fitness levels and are accessible, while Milford Track tour hikes require a moderate level of fitness.
  • Guided tours: Regardless of your choice all tours are guided and you’ll be getting expert live commentary on the road, in the air, and on the cruise.

Your Milford Sound tour options explained

Flight to Milford Sound with Cruise from Queenstown

From Queenstown

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes to 12 hours (depending on choice of ticket)

  • Get round-trip transfers between Queenstown and Milford Sound via luxury coaches or flights. The choice is yours!
  • Hop on a Milford Sound cruise to observe glacier-carved fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife while savoring a delicious lunch.
  • Learn about Milford’s history from your cruise’s expert skipper or flight pilot. 
  • Opt for a hassle-free journey with hotel pick-ups and drop-offs on your Milford Sound tour, letting you relax and soak in the stunning scenery without the stress of driving.
  • If you’re opting for a return flight, take a whole new route and see new sights like Lake Quill, Earnslaw Burn Glacier (featured in The Hobbit)  dotted below

Recommended experiences:

Guided wilderness Walks in Milford Sound

From Te Anau

Duration: 8 hours to 12 hours (depending on choice of ticket)

  • Enjoy the convenience of hotel pick-up and drop-offs in luxury glass-roof coaches, a picnic lunch, and complimentary tea & coffee on-board, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
  • Experience the convenience of a local driver/guide providing insightful commentary, enriching your understanding of Milford Sound's natural wonders and gems along the way. 
  • Upgrade to enjoy extended guided walks to Gertrude Valley, Lake Gunn and Homer Tunnel. 
  • Or, embark on a 5.5 km small-group guided walk along the legendary Milford Track, traversing ancient rainforests, mountains, and waterfalls, and learn about the UNESCO-listed national park's rich history and diverse wildlife, led by an experienced guide.
  • Cruise along Milford Sound and view iconic landmarks such as Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and Seal Point from the observation deck while enjoying live commentary from a knowledgeable onboard naturalist. 

Recommended experiences:

Lady enjoying the view at Milford Sound

From Milford Sound

Duration: 2 hours to 7 hours (depending on choice of ticket)

  • These tours are perfect if you’re looking to kickstart your adventure from Milford Sound itself. 
  • Opt for the extended 2-hour journey aboard a luxury catamaran featuring a unique glass roof for unparalleled views.
  • Take in the natural wonders of Mitre Peak, Lady Bowen Falls, and the majestic Stirling Falls, all while enjoying informative commentary from knowledgeable skippers.
  • Indulge in a warm cup of tea or coffee, either nestled in the inviting lounge or on the viewing deck, as you keep an eye out for the charming and playful seals, dolphins, and the distinctive Fiordland crested penguins.
  • Or start your journey at Milford Track with your expert guide will leading you on a 5-hour walk through lush rain forests, ending at the Giant's Gate Waterfall. Then, opt for a cruise upgrade to seamlessly extend your Milford Sound experience.

Recommended experience:

Sights covered on your Milford Sound tour

Milford Sound Cruise

Milford Sound Cruise

Cruise through the fjord and watch the grandeur of Mitre Peak and the cascading Stirling Falls. Marvel at the stunning Bowen Falls as seals and dolphins grace the waters.

Small Group Guided Walking Tour, Milford track

Milford Track

Explore the world-famous Milford Track, one of New Zealand's Great Walks, featuring awe-inspiring landscapes and diverse ecosystems, attracting hiking enthusiasts from around the globe.

Mitre Peak, Milford Sound

Mitre Peak

Towering over Milford Sound, Mitre Peak's iconic silhouette is a breathtaking sight, rising majestically from the dark waters, creating a postcard-perfect backdrop.

Giant Gate Waterfall at Milford Sound

Giant Gate Waterfalls

Witness the impressive Giant Gate Waterfalls, a towering cascade that adds a dramatic touch to the lush landscape, surrounded by native flora.

Milford Sound, Fiordland National Park

Mirror Lakes

Reflecting the surrounding peaks, these tranquil lakes offer mirror-like reflections, creating a serene setting with the backdrop of the Earl Mountains.

Earnslaw Burn Glacier Track

Earnslaw Burn Glacier

Admire the glacial beauty of Earnslaw Burn, a stunning glacier framed by rugged terrain, providing a glimpse into the ancient forces shaping the region.

View of Tasman sea with Olivine Ice Plateau, Mt. Tutoko, and the Tutoko Glacier

Olivine Ice Plateau

Experience the surreal Olivine Ice Plateau, a high-altitude expanse of ice, showcasing the pristine wilderness and the unique geological features of Fiordland National Park.

View of mountains from Monkey Creek, Fjordland, South Island, New Zealand

Monkey Creek

Stop at Monkey Creek, a refreshing mountain spring, where you can savor the pure alpine water and perhaps spot native birdlife amidst the scenic surroundings.

Entrance to the Homer Tunnel in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park on the road to Milford Sound.

Homer Tunnel

Venture through the engineering marvel of Homer Tunnel, a tunnel carved through solid rock, adding an adventurous element to your journey into Milford Sound.

Handy travel tips for your Milford Sound tour

  • Rain gear essentials: Milford Sound is renowned for its rainfall, so pack waterproof clothing and sturdy footwear. Consider a rain jacket with a hood, waterproof pants, and waterproof hiking boots to stay dry during potential drizzles.
  • Warmth for little travelers: If traveling with young ones on a flight, bring a muffler or scarf to keep them warm. Ear muffs are also provided on flights.
  • Accessibility guaranteed: Flight tours and Milford Sound cruise tours are accessibility-friendly. 
  • Comfortable layering: Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. Milford Sound can experience temperature variations, so having a combination of warm and breathable layers allows you to stay comfortable throughout the day.
  • Coach Transfers: Opt for a coach transfer for hassle-free journeys. Navigating the steep and winding roads of Milford Sound can be challenging especially due to the constant rains. A comfortable coach ride not only ensures safety but also allows you to enjoy the scenic journey without the stress of driving.
  • Binoculars for Wildlife Enthusiasts: Bring binoculars to enhance your wildlife-spotting experience during the cruise. Seals, dolphins, and penguins often make appearances, and binoculars allow you to appreciate these incredible creatures up close.
  • Tech Essentials for Photography: For photography enthusiasts, ensure your camera or smartphone is well-protected against potential rain. Pack a waterproof cover or a sealable plastic bag to safeguard your devices while capturing the stunning landscapes.
  • Seasickness Preparedness: If you're prone to seasickness, consider taking preventive measures before the cruise. Motion sickness bands or medications can help ensure a more enjoyable experience on the water.
  • Eco-Friendly Practices: Respect the natural environment by adhering to eco-friendly practices. Refrain from feeding wildlife, stay on designated trails during walks, and dispose of any waste responsibly to preserve the pristine beauty of Milford Sound for future generations.

Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Sound Tour

How much does a Milford Sound tour cost?

Milford Sound tour costs begin at NZ$125. Things like tour duration, covered areas, and inclusions contribute to the tour price. Prices are dynamic, and we suggest exploring our curated collection of experiences to check real-time availability and for best prices.

Which is the best Milford Sound tour?

You can choose the best Milford Sound tours for you based on location, time and budget. If you are already at Milford Sound, you can opt for the Milford Sound Cruise or a Milford Track Tour. If you are traveling on from Queenstown or Te Anau opt for tours which features a cruise with complimentary lunch and round trip transfers. To experience Milford Sound from the sky, opt for a scenic flight tour.

Why should I opt for a Milford Sound tour and what does it include?

You should opt for a guided Milford Sound tour for hassle-free round trip end-to-end transfers from your hotel and to experience the surreal beauty of the fiord, and its surrounding areas like Bowen Falls, Milford Track, and Mitre Peak, with an expert local guide. You can also hop on a Milford Sound Cruise and enjoy lunch onboard with complimentary tea or coffee as part of your tour.

How long does a Milford Sound tour last?

The duration of your Milford Sound tour depends on the tour option you select and the inclusions. A tour may take anywhere between 2 hours to 12 hours.

What is the cancellation policy for a Milford Sound tour?

For most Milford Sound tours, you can cancel your tickets up to 24 hours before your experience begins and get a full refund issued.

Are Milford Sound tour suitable for children?

Yes, most Milford Sound Tour options are suitable for people of all ages. It might even instill a sense of appreciation for the wonders of nature in children. However, some tours including Milford Track might not be suitable for children under 8 years old.

Are Milford Sound tours accessibility friendly?

Flight tours and Cruise tours in Milford Sound are accessibility friendly. However, Milford Tracks are not advisable for folks with reduced mobility.