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Queenstown to Milford Sound Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Queenstown
Start your trip here; enjoy the views, grab a coffee, and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Passes by
Wye Creek Track
Lake Te Anau Lion Lookout Point
1
Te Anau
Free Admission
Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Stretch your legs and explore as the coach stops here for a midway break.
Passes by
Lake Mistletoe Walking Track
Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes
Lake Gunn
Hollyford Lookout
Lake Marian Track
Homer Tunnel
The Chasm
2
Milford Sound Terminal
Tickets included
The gateway to Milford Sound, where you can embark on a cruise to explore one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
12
END POINT
Queenstown
- 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
- Complimentary tea and coffee on-board
- Small-group experience (as per 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.
Reviews
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4.5
148 ratings
96
36
10
1
5
Guests from Australia, United States, India and over 21 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
LIU,
Apr 2025Verified booking
1.The driver & captain introduced the views very clearl ! 2.Milford sounds very beautiful! 3.There are many places to visit during the trip!
Zarir
Jun 2025Verified booking
Lynette was a great tour guide and very knowledgeable about the history of the region and the stops and locations were wonderful.
Christine
Apr 2025Verified booking
I had the vegetarian pie and must say that it was inedible. The filling consisted of some mushed up vegetables and was without any kind of seasoning. I had also thought that there would be walks to speak of. Instead we were dropped of somewhere and picked up again 10 minutest later by the driver at the other end of the carpark. You should not include these kind of walks in the tour description. It is misleading.
Ires
Apr 2025Verified booking
everything was excellent from the staffs and the scenery too
NANA
May 2025Verified booking
Sian
May 2025Verified booking
Celina
May 2025Verified booking
Luca
May 2025Verified booking
Aichun
Apr 2025Verified booking
Jinky
Apr 2025Verified booking
Achini
Apr 2025Verified booking
Wai
Apr 2025Verified booking
Huiwen
Apr 2025Verified booking
Katherine
Apr 2025Verified booking
Tanja
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ferdinand
Mar 2025Verified booking
Charity
Mar 2025Verified booking
Tal
Mar 2025Verified booking
Curtis
Apr 2025Verified booking
Air nz turned the plane around and the head out staff offered no help or adjustment of tour and left us out to dry was fucking bullshit, head out kept all the money paid and said not our problem the plane was turned around and because it was less than 24hr notice they couldnt do shit!! We were in the fucking air how were we suppose to contact headout in the notice period when air nz made the call to turn around!!?? I will not be recommending using head out at all!!! I will tell everyone to avoid them!!!
Xiguo
Feb 2025Verified booking
The view is awesome. The travel guide Jeff was excellent. He explained the history and all relevant information to Milford sound, which made our trip a remarkable experience.
Marc
Jan 2025Verified booking
Scarlet, the busdriver to Milford was amazing. What we didn't lile was the glassroof of the bus, which let so much sum through. If you buy a glassroof the next time, please make sure you order an option to block the sun.
Gloria
Jan 2025Verified booking
I liked that we got a very experienced driver and guide. It was an older gentleman who was very clear about the expectations during the whole trip. He was very kind and gracious to talk to us about any aspect of the country and culture we had questions about. He was very professional and his time to provide a one-of -a kid experience was very much appreciated.
KONSTANTINOS
Feb 2025Verified booking
Everything was very good. I had a very good and unique experience. I would gladly do it again!
This review is translated. Show original review.
LIN,
Mar 2025Verified booking
Aman
Mar 2025Verified booking
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION8 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Te Anau
Start your trip here; enjoy the views, grab a coffee, and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Passes by
Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes
Hollyford Lookout
Homer Tunnel
1
Milford Sound Terminal
Tickets included
The gateway to Milford Sound, where you can embark on a cruise to explore one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
5
END POINT
Te Anau
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- 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 looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- 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
- Complimentary tea & coffee on-board
- 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 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.4
109 ratings
63
35
4
3
4
Guests from Australia, Germany, United Kingdom and over 17 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Ivan
May 2025Verified booking
Spectacular in its completeness, Brian a genius of driving and explanation.
View original review in Spanish
Phavit
Apr 2025Verified booking
The transfer was really good, also the driver was really nice and kinds to everyone. The coach was comfortable and the cruise was excellence.
Angela
Mar 2025Verified booking
Everything! The bus ride to the cruise was great. The commentary was informative and gave so much information along the way. The transfer to the boat was seamless and the ride back restful. The cruise commentary was appreciated and all staff friendly. Thanks everyone.
Ian
Apr 2025Verified booking
The driver was awesome and very entertaining
Jacob
Mar 2025Verified booking
RealNZ was easy to travel with! We would definitely use them again in the future.
Penelope
May 2025Verified booking
LAURENT
May 2025Verified booking
JEAN-JOSEPH
Apr 2025Verified booking
Richard
Apr 2025Verified booking
Dominique
Apr 2025Verified booking
George
Apr 2025Verified booking
Olaf
Mar 2025Verified booking
Robert
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fiona
Mar 2025Verified booking
Chou our driver was great, very informative and funny. The weather was perfect, thank you for arranging that. The trip on the water was spectacular, more than we expected. The guide on the ship was excellent. Booking was easy, the directions were great.
Ian
Feb 2025Verified booking
The bus trip was very informative and relevent - Thank you Scarlet. The cruise was beautiful and well worth it. Friendly staff on the boat with good commentary and a nice lunch.
Gabriela
Feb 2025Verified booking
Very professional and friendly guide/driver (Caren?), beautiful landscape. One thing to mention: we didn't know that the bus was coming from Queenstown and that it was nearly full. We joined the party in Te Anau and had to take the seats at the very rear of the bus. That is not okay, especially when you are very early at the meeting point!
Sharon
Jan 2025Verified booking
The guides on the bus and the boat were both very knowledgeable and made it a most enjoyable experience. Would recommend
Dr.
Mar 2025Verified booking
The bus driver was great. He gave a huge amount of interesting information.
Mitchell
Feb 2025Verified booking
Great tour and driver Awesome experience
vedantam
Jan 2025Verified booking
Good service, commentary and food / drink at the bar.
Nico
Mar 2025Verified booking
Bryce
Mar 2025Verified booking
Francelle
Mar 2025Verified booking
Norbert
Mar 2025Verified booking
Anne-Marie
Mar 2025Verified booking
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours 30 minutes
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Queenstown
Start your flight from Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand, known for its stunning lake and mountain views.
Passes by
Central Otago
Lake Wakatipu
Mt Aspiring National Park
Fiordland National Park
5
END POINT
Queenstown
- 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.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.7
38 ratings
31
5
0
1
1
Guests from Australia, United States, Germany and over 6 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
John
May 2025Verified booking
Milford Sound Flights needed to cancel our booked morning trip, but managed to get us in on the afternoon trip. Much appreciated.
Seyyedmehdi
Apr 2025Verified booking
Clayton
Apr 2025Verified booking
Beiting
Feb 2025Verified booking
Everything is amazing. A comfortable trip within only 5 hours driving from Queen's town. The plane is extremely amazing. The scenery is beautiful. Enjoy myself whole day.
HYOJI
Jan 2025Verified booking
Smooth and pleasant flight with phenomenal views of mountain chains. The milfordsound cruise was not too busy. Could see a penguin swiming in ocean, seals enjoying sun bathing. Perfect day! Lovely experience!
Philippus
Mar 2025Verified booking
Christopher
Mar 2025Verified booking
Andre
Feb 2025Verified booking
David
Jan 2025Verified booking
Joel
Jan 2025Verified booking
Snezana
Dec 2024Verified booking
Krystyna
Nov 2024Verified booking
Rob
Nov 2024Verified booking
Matthew
Oct 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Oct 2024Verified booking
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Sep 2024Verified booking
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Sep 2024Verified booking
Headout Guest
Sep 2024Verified booking
Charleen
Oct 2024Verified booking
The Milford Sound Flight was fantastic and the boat cruise was phenomenal. Unfortunately we nearly missed the whole experience because we were not picked up from our hotel as the email stated. Someone forgot to pick us up!! We had to get a taxi and rush to the airport where the flight was loaded & ready to go! 5 mins later & we would've missed it 😢
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION13 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus
START POINT
Queenstown
Start your journey in the stunning city of Queenstown on a comfortable AC minibus where your guide will guide you past some of the area’s top highlights.
1
Lake Wakatipu
Free Admission
Photo stop, Sightseeing
Passes by
Devils Staircase
2
Lake Te Anau
Free Admission
The largest lake in the South Island, Lake Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park. Meet some of the local animals or wildlife and then stop at Te Anau Downs, the starting point for the Milford Track, to hear the stories and admire the views.
3
Eglinton Valley
Free Admission
Eglinton Valley is a stunning flat-floored valley surrounded by towering peaks. Its vibrant grasslands make it a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or a photo stop.
4
Mirror Lakes
Free Admission
A short walk from the highway, Mirror Lakes offers reflective views of the surrounding mountains. On calm days, the reflections are almost perfect, creating an optical illusion.
5
Lake Gunn
Free Admission
Photo stop, Sightseeing
Passes by
Hollyford River
6
Darran Mountains
Free Admission
The Darran Mountains are a rugged mountain range within Fiordland National Park, offering jaw-dropping vistas and a chance to click photos of some large, cheeky, and colourful birds.
Passes by
Homer Tunnel
7
Milford Sound
Tickets included
Embark on a 2-hour cruise of Milford Sound, a breathtaking fjord known for the towering Mitre Peak rising sharply from its waters and the famous Pop's View Lookout that offers panoramic views of the Hollyford Valley and beyond.
11
END POINT
Queenstown
- Best for guests looking for a more intimate setting and nature and history enthusiasts looking to catch scenic views with animal encounters and culture.
- Book this if you want a cost-effective way to enjoy mountain views, history, culture, and up-close encounters with native animals.
- What's unique: See local wildlife at Lake Te Anau, Kea, the world’s largest alpine parrot at Darren Mountains and New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks of Milford Sound.
- Sights seen: Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, Devils Staircase, Lake Te Anau, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River & Falls Creek, Darran Mountains, Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound, Mitre Peak, Pop's View Lookout.
- Best for guests looking for a more intimate setting and nature and history enthusiasts looking to catch scenic views with animal encounters and culture.
- Book this if you want a cost-effective way to enjoy mountain views, history, culture, and up-close encounters with native animals.
- What's unique: See local wildlife at Lake Te Anau, Kea, the world’s largest alpine parrot at Darren Mountains and New Zealand fur seals basking on the rocks of Milford Sound.
- Sights seen: Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, Devils Staircase, Lake Te Anau, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River & Falls Creek, Darran Mountains, Homer Tunnel, Milford Sound, Mitre Peak, Pop's View Lookout.
Inclusions
- Small group guided tour
- Tour guide
- Round-trip transfers
- Milford sound cruise
- Cruise entry
- Minibus
- Start from Queenstown.
- The following stops will be included on the way to and back from Milford Sound.
Minibus
- Queenstown
- Lake Wakatipu
- Devils Staircase
- Lake Te Anau
- Eglington Valley
- Mirror Lakes
- Lake Gunn
- Hollyford River & Falls Creek
- Darran Mountains
- Homer Tunnel
Cruise
These are the sights you can look out for during the cruise:
- Milford Sound
- Mitre Peak
- Pop's View Lookout
- Return to Queenstown
- Tip: Keep an eye out for white-headed woodpeckers and martens when you take a short stroll around Mirror Lakes.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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Snapshots from our guests
4.5
45 ratings
27
16
1
0
1
Guests from Australia, Italy, United States and over 10 countries have loved this experience
What our guests say
Zarir
Jun 2025Verified booking
Lynette was a great tour guide and very knowledgeable about the history of the region and the stops and locations were wonderful.
NANA
May 2025Verified booking
Celina
May 2025Verified booking
Luca
May 2025Verified booking
Achini
Apr 2025Verified booking
Ferdinand
Mar 2025Verified booking
Charity
Mar 2025Verified booking
Xiguo
Feb 2025Verified booking
The view is awesome. The travel guide Jeff was excellent. He explained the history and all relevant information to Milford sound, which made our trip a remarkable experience.
Aman
Mar 2025Verified booking
Dirk
Mar 2025Verified booking
Elizabeth
Feb 2025Verified booking
ROBYN
Feb 2025Verified booking
Luke
Jan 2025Verified booking
ISHA
Dec 2024Verified booking
Warren
Dec 2024Verified booking
Marvin
Nov 2024Verified booking
We loved the natural beauty of Milford Sound and coming up close to the waterfall for a glacial wash. The driver of Altitude Tours passenger van Erik was super interesting like a walking encyclopedia and made the trip a real joy.
Headout Guest
Nov 2024Verified booking
Our guide Albert was very knowledgeable about the whole area of Queenstown. It was a great relaxing drive with great views. Milford sound was breathtaking. Would highly recommend this tour.
Headout Guest
Nov 2024Verified booking
We knew from the pictures that Milford Sound would be spectacular. Two things made this even better. Our guide Lynette clearly loves people and her job sharing her knowledge. As importantly, she's a safe and smooth driver which can be a big deal traveling 8 total hours in a bus on the narrow and twisty roads. The captain of the boat found opportunities to get us up close to a group of seals and then a couple of penguins. He also took us almost underneath a waterfall which was an amazing experience. Dress for cold and wet as we did and you won't have to run inside. We usually like to do our own discovering on trips but we're really glad we signed up for this full-day tour.
Carlo
Dec 2024Verified booking
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Nov 2024Verified booking
- A treat for nature lovers, experience a full-day tour of Doubtful Sound as you begin your odyssey from Te Anau through rolling hills and lush valleys.
- Enjoy a complimentary coffee/tea while learning about Doubtful Sound’s glacial origins and rich Maori heritage from your guide.
- Set sail on Lake Manapouri’s tranquil waters, then cross the breathtaking Wilmot Pass for panoramic views of verdant rainforests and rugged peaks.
- Marvel at the diverse wildlife – from whales and albatrosses to the elusive Fiordland crested penguins against a backdrop of stunning beauty.
- Pick up your cameras and snap incredible pictures of the Browne Falls while relaxing on a 3-hour catamaran cruise.
- A treat for nature lovers, experience a full-day tour of Doubtful Sound as you begin your odyssey from Te Anau through rolling hills and lush valleys.
- Enjoy a complimentary coffee/tea while learning about Doubtful Sound’s glacial origins and rich Maori heritage from your guide.
- Set sail on Lake Manapouri’s tranquil waters, then cross the breathtaking Wilmot Pass for panoramic views of verdant rainforests and rugged peaks.
- Marvel at the diverse wildlife – from whales and albatrosses to the elusive Fiordland crested penguins against a backdrop of stunning beauty.
- Pick up your cameras and snap incredible pictures of the Browne Falls while relaxing on a 3-hour catamaran cruise.
Inclusions
- Full-day Doubtful Sound Wilderness tour
- Knowledgeable nature guide
- Coach transfers from Te Anau to Manapouri
- 3-hour Doubtful Sound cruise
- Lake Manapouri cruise
- Coach trip over Wilmot Pass
- Complimentary tea & coffee
Exclusions
- Food & beverages
- Drinks from the open bar
- Hall Arm is a scenic masterpiece that showcases nature's beauty at its finest. Get your camera ready when you pass and prepare for a visual treat.
- Due to the multi-leg journey and floating wharf access, guests will need to have a reasonable level of mobility.
- Pack a waterproof jacket, warm sweater/fleece jacket, and non-slip shoes/boots for a weather-ready kit; who knows when the skies might decide to be moody?
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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4.3
114 ratings
36
78
0
0
0
What our guests say
John
Mar 2025Verified booking
Very well organized and informative. In particular, enjoyed the narration by Chris as we drove from Te Anau to Manapouri and back. Great guy!
Horacio
Apr 2025Verified booking
Amazing!!..A very different and profound experience..
GROUX
Mar 2025Verified booking
Klaus
Mar 2025Verified booking
Gregory
Mar 2025Verified booking
Fantastic experience the whoke journey was amazing and informative we we very lucky with beautiful weather however this impacted the number of waterfalls . the team were very interesting and knowledgeable which kept the experience engrossing. Just loved it
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Dec 2024Verified booking
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Milford Sound ToursQueenstown to Milford Sound Tours
What to expect on your tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound
Transfers and pickups
Every tour from Queenstown has its own charm. Choose the classic coach journey for a relaxed, all-day trip with scenic stops and helpful commentary, or opt for a scenic flight that provides aerial views of New Zealand’s diverse landscapes. Enjoy hassle-free hotel pick-ups and return transfers so you can focus on the experience.
Choosing the best Queenstown to Milford Sound tour
Queenstown to Milford Sound by coach
- Best for: Solo travelers, friends, and families
- Price: Starting from NZ$260
- Duration: 12-13 hours
Why choose this experience?
Perfect to see the best views on a budget. Day trips usually include walks, guided tours, and cruise experiences.
Recommended experience
Milford Sound tour with cruise and walks
Queenstown to Milford Sound scenic flight
- Best for: Couples and luxury travelers
- Price: Starting from NZ$675
- Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes to 13 hours
Why choose this experience?
A time-saving option that gives you amazing aerial views, scenic flights are perfect for everyone who wants to make the most of their day.
Recommended experience
Milford Sound scenic flight
Premium experience
- Best for: Couples
- Price: From NZ$239
- Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes to 13 hours
Why choose this experience?
Make your journey even more remarkable with premium add-ons like private cabins and delicious meals cooked onboard.
Recommended experiences:
Premium Milford Sound Cruise Tickets
See all photos
Plan your Queenstown to Milford Sound tour
Boarding point
Transfers
Scenic flight
Food & dining
Facilities & accessibility
Accommodation
Tips
- Boarding point: Your adventure begins in Queenstown with convenient hotel pick-ups.
- Start times: Coaches typically depart as early as 7:15am. For the premium cruise, coaches depart at 6:30am and 7am. Scenic flights are available from 10am and again at 12:30pm. Check your voucher for precise boarding details and arrive at least 15 minutes early.
- Many experiences offer hotel transfers. Remember to add your hotel name while booking for a smooth pick-up.
- You can find your cruise boarding point location by following the directions mentioned on the voucher.
- For day trips, comfortable AC coaches are available, along with a tour guide. These will take you from Queenstown to Milford Sound within 12 hours. The day tours start from 6:30 am, 7am, and 7:15 am.
- The overnight Milford Sound cruise goes up to 31 hours. This is the most premium option with private cabins and an onboard chef to prepare a 3-course dinner.
- Taking a flight can give you unparalleled aerial views of the lush flora and picturesque blue waters along the way.
- The flyover from Queenstown over Milford Sound and back to Queenstown is approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. You can take a morning flight at 10am and another one at 12:30pm.
- Passengers weighing 140 kg (308 lb) or more should make a note during booking. For helicopter activities, there is a weight limit of 116 kg (255 lb).
- This experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility.
- On the move: Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee during your coach transfer from Queenstown.
- At Milford Sound: Some tours include meal packages, such as a three-course dinner under the stars, while others offer lighter options. If you have dietary requirements, be sure to mention them when booking.
- Onboard comfort: Depending on your tour, you might have access to modern washrooms, comfortable observation decks, and cozy lounges to relax during the journey.
- Accessibility: Many tours are designed with accessibility in mind. If you require wheelchair access, notify your operator in advance (foldable wheelchairs are often preferred on some vessels).
Where to stay:
- QT Queenstown – A stylish hotel in the heart of Queenstown with great mountain views.
- Millennium Hotel Queenstown – A family-friendly option right in town.
- Heritage Queenstown – A boutique hotel that blends modern comforts with local character.
- Safety briefings: Always listen to your guide’s safety instructions during the journey.
- Footwear: Surfaces can get slippery, especially when wet. Wear sturdy shoes or boots even if you’re not hiking.
- Wet weather: Milford Sound is very rainy, and cruises run in most conditions. Bring a raincoat or umbrella to stay dry.
- Cash: Carry some local currency or a credit card for snacks and souvenirs.
- Medication: Bring any necessary medication, especially if you’re prone to seasickness or have a medical condition.
- Insect repellent: Sandflies are common. Use repellent to avoid bites.
Frequently asked questions about Queenstown to Milford Sound tours
How much does a Queenstown to Milford Sound tour cost?
Queenstown to Milford Sound tours start from NZ$239 depending on your choice of transport, additional experiences, and tour inclusions.
What’s included in the Milford Sound tour from Queenstown?
The tour includes round-trip transportation, flight to Milford Sound, a boat cruise, with the option of guided tours by expert nature guides. Some packages also offer meals or refreshments on board when selected during the booking.
What’s the best time of year to visit Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is a year-round destination. Summer (December to February) offers long days and warmer weather, while winter (June to August) brings fewer crowds and stunning snow-capped mountains. Check out our best time to visit guide for more tips.
Are meals provided during the Milford Sound tour?
Some tour packages include lunch or refreshments on board the cruise. However, it’s a good idea to bring snacks and water, especially for the bus ride between Queenstown and Milford Sound, as stops for food can be limited.
Can I book a private tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound?
Yes, private tours are available for those looking for a more personalized experience. These offer greater flexibility in terms of timing and stops along the way. Be sure to check with the operator for availability and pricing.
Is transportation from my hotel in Queenstown included?
Most tours offer hotel pick-up and drop-off services in Queenstown. Be sure to confirm this when booking, as some packages may require you to meet at a designated location.
What’s the difference between morning and afternoon Milford Sound cruises?
Morning cruises are generally quieter, offering a more serene experience with fewer boats on the water. Afternoon cruises may be busier but often feature the best light for photography, especially in the summer months.
Can I expect to see wildlife during the Milford Sound cruise?
Yes, wildlife sightings are common. Keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks, playful dolphins, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot penguins.
What should I wear for the Milford Sound tour?
Dress in layers as the weather in Fiordland can change quickly. It’s also recommended to bring waterproof clothing, especially for the cruise, as waterfalls are often close to the boat. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking during scenic stops.
Is the tour suitable for families with children?
Absolutely! The Milford Sound tour is family-friendly, with plenty to see and experience for all ages. Many tours accommodate families with the options to make the trip more comfortable for little ones.
What happens if it rains during the Milford Sound tour?
Rain is common in Milford Sound and often enhances the experience, as the waterfalls become more dramatic and plentiful. Tours generally operate in all weather conditions, and rain gear is recommended for a more enjoyable experience.
Are there restrooms available during the tour?
Yes, there are restrooms on the tour buses and on the Milford Sound cruise. However, rest stops along the road from Queenstown to Milford Sound may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Is Milford Sound accessible for travelers with limited mobility?
While some tours are wheelchair-accessible, it’s important to check with the operator before booking. The cruise itself is often accessible, but the road journey and certain stops along the way may have limited facilities.
Are there any additional costs during the tour?
Depending on the tour, there may be optional extras like meals, souvenirs, or additional adventure activities. Be sure to check what’s included in your package and bring some cash or a card in case you want to purchase anything.
Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Wi-Fi is generally not available on the tour bus or cruise, as much of the journey passes through remote areas without connectivity. Enjoy the natural beauty and disconnect for a day.
From happy customers
Melissa
New Zealandavr., 2025
+ 1 more
I really liked the Mitre Peak's boat. We were not too many on it and thanks to its size, we could get very close from the falls.
The crew was nice and having hot drinks available is a big plus!
Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise
Liu,
Taiwanavr., 2025
1.The driver & captain introduced the views very clearl !
2.Milford sounds very beautiful!
3.There are many places to visit during the trip!
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
David
Australiamars, 2025
Personalised table for 2 and the knowledgeable hosts and guides made it well worth the $$$.
Food was good and topped off with a cheese board.
The all female crew only added to the experience.
Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne
R
New Zealandmars, 2025
From the moment we stepped on board the cruise boat we could sense a good vibe ,after receiving our complementary glass of champagne and canapés everyone were ready for a great time ,the crew were very friendly and helpful with any of our questions.The cruise itself out to the Tasman Sea was very enjoyable with the onboard nature expert explaining many points of interest.On reflection we can honestly recommend the whole experience.
Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne
Gilbert
United Statesmars, 2025
+ 1 more
The sound itself. It was an unforgettable spectacle. I was stressed about the rain as we got close to the facility, but it turned out perfectly: the rain engorged the waterfalls so they were more spectacular, and the rain slacked off soon after we sailed, and ceased completly about midway. So we got good visibility and great waterfalls. The food was decent, although it was hard to find a place to eat it while we kept getting up to gawk at more wonders outside. We agreed we were in awe and it was one of the most remarkable experiences of our lives.
Milford Sound Cruise
Kevin
United Kingdommars, 2025
We had the most amazing weather to begin with. Plus the crew and the boat captain (doing the commentary/speaking) was so fun it made the experience even better! 💯 recommend it!
Milford Sound Cruise
Fiona
New Zealandmars, 2025
Chou our driver was great, very informative and funny. The weather was perfect, thank you for arranging that. The trip on the water was spectacular, more than we expected. The guide on the ship was excellent. Booking was easy, the directions were great.
From Te Anau: Milford Cruise & Return Transfers
Beiting
févr., 2025
Everything is amazing. A comfortable trip within only 5 hours driving from Queen's town. The plane is extremely amazing. The scenery is beautiful. Enjoy myself whole day.
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise