Queenstown to Milford Sound Tours

Best-priced Milford cruise, with peak slot availability.

• Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute to 2-hour scenic cruise with expert commentary, indoor lounges and open decks, free tea/coffee, frequent wildlife sightings, multilingual audio, and flexible timings for self-drivers.
• Why choose this: Best for self-drivers wanting flexible, with frequent departures, ideal for Queenstown day trips.
• Upgrades: Elevate your trip with scenic flights from Queenstown for aerial views of the Southern Alps and fjord, cutting travel to just ~5 hours instead of a 13-hour coach ride.

Inclusions

• 1-hour 45-minute to 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
• Expert skipper commentary
• Complimentary tea & coffee
• Wildlife spotting opportunities
• Access to outdoor viewing decks
• Indoor heated lounge area
• Multi-language audio guide app

Scenic flight transfers from Queenstown (if option selected)

• 35 minutes each way flying time
• Guaranteed window seats
• Expert pilot commentary

Exclusions

• Other food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.
• Carry warm, weather-appropriate clothing and a waterproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly on the water.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• Dangerous or hazardous items are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

• Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
• There may be steps and uneven surfaces on board; guests with limited mobility should take caution.

Additional information

• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
• Cruises operate in most weather conditions; cancellations are rare and only occur in extreme circumstances.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Restrooms are available on board.
• The cruise duration and route may vary depending on weather and operational requirements.
• Infants and children may require a booked ticket; check your ticket details before arrival.

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

Pair aerial vistas with a small-group cruise for a faster, more immersive fiord escape.

• Day out to: Milford Sound from Queenstown, with round-trip scenic flights and a 2-hour small-boat cruise.
• You'll get: Round-trip transfers with hotel pickup, a 2-hour small-group Milford Sound cruise, and live commentary on board.
• Milford Sound: Glide past sheer cliffs and waterfalls on a 2-hour cruise, with your small group soaking in Fiordland's dramatic scenery.
• Scenic flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound: Admire sweeping views of mountains, valleys, and lakes as you fly between Queenstown and Milford Sound with live pilot commentary.
• Upgrades: Choose round-trip scenic flights or coach out, flight back, and add reserved cruise seating and picnic lunch for extra comfort.

Inclusions

• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
• Round-trip transfers between Queenstown and Milford Sound
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Live commentary on board
• Small-group experience
• Round-trip scenic flights between Queenstown and Milford Sound [as per option selected]
• Coach transfer from Queenstown to Milford Sound with scenic flight back to Queenstown [as per option selected]
• Reserved seating on the Milford Sound cruise [as per option selected]
• Lunch [as per option selected]

Exclusions

• Food and beverages not specified in inclusions

What to bring

• Photo ID: Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking and variable weather.
• Warm layer: Bring a warm jacket, as Milford Sound weather can be cool even in summer.
• Sun protection: Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
• Essentials: Carry a water bottle and any personal medication you may need.

Accessibility

• Mobility needs: This activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility.
• Boarding: Guests must be able to board and disembark aircraft, coaches, and boats independently or with minimal assistance.
• Restrooms: There are no wheelchair-accessible restrooms available during the tour.
• Passenger weight note: Passengers weighing 140 kg, 308 lb, or more should make a note during booking.
• Helicopter weight limit: For helicopter activities, the weight limit is 116 kg, 255 lb.
• Weight discrepancy: A discrepancy over 15 kg, 33 lb, from the declared weight at check-in may lead to rescheduling, subject to availability.

What’s not allowed

• Large luggage: Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted on the aircraft, coach, or cruise.
• Substances and smoking: Alcohol, illegal substances, and smoking, including e-cigarettes, are prohibited on all transport and during the cruise.
• Drones and equipment: Drones and professional photography equipment are not allowed without prior permission.
• Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Additional information

• Weather and flights: All flights are subject to weather, and the experience operates except when the operator deems it unsafe.
• Children and infants: Infants must sit on laps, child pricing applies for ages 2 to 11, and children under 2 travel free but must be in the booking.
• Arrival time: Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
• Itinerary changes: The itinerary and duration may vary depending on weather, traffic, and operational requirements.
• Food and drinks: Food and drinks are not included unless specified in your ticket, but you may bring your own snacks.
• Restroom access: Restroom facilities are available on the cruise vessel but may be limited during other parts of the tour.
• Special requirements: Please inform the operator in advance of any dietary requirements or medical conditions.
• Weather prep: Dress appropriately for changing weather conditions in Milford Sound.
• Flight availability: Flight activities are subject to availability and require confirmation with the airline partner.
• Alternative operator: If the regular flight operator is unavailable, an alternative operator may be arranged, which could incur an additional cost.
• Lunch options: Lunch is included only if you select a picnic lunch option at booking.

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

Let expert guides handle logistics on scenic full-day itinerary with transfers and cruise included.

• Full day out to: Milford Sound from Queenstown, with round-trip coach transfers.
• You'll get: A 1-hour 45-minute sightseeing cruise with live commentary through the fjord's cliffs and waterfalls.
• Options: Choose coach, luxury car, or scenic flights, boutique boats with 3 decks and priority seating, walks, groups, tea/coffee, hotel transfers, and taxes.
• Milford Sound cruise: Sail beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls on a 1-hour 45-minute cruise with live onboard commentary.
• Mirror Lakes: Pause for a short walk by mirror-like pools framed by peaks, with photo stops in Eglinton Valley and at Monkey Creek.

Inclusions

• Milford Sound cruise with live commentary
• Guided nature walks and scenic stops at Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley and Monkey Creek [as per option selected]
• Round-trip AC coach transfers [as per option selected]
• Round-trip transfers in a luxury vehicle [as per option selected]
• Round-trip scenic flights from Queenstown, 35 minutes each way [as per option selected]
• Hotel transfers from Queenstown [as per option selected]
• Boutique small-boat cruise, maximum 15 guests [as per option selected]
• Access to cruise vessels with 3 viewing decks [as per option selected]
• Priority seating on board [as per option selected]
• Small-group tour [as per option selected]
• Tea and coffee on board the cruise [as per option selected]
• All taxes and fees [as per option selected]

Exclusions

• Food and drinks not specified in inclusions, available to purchase onsite

What to bring

• ID: Bring a valid photo ID that matches the name on your booking.
• Footwear: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and outdoor activities.
• Clothing: Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
• Sun protection: Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Essentials: Carry a refillable water bottle and any personal medications you may need.
• Camera: Bring a camera to capture the scenic views.
• Money: Bring cash or an EFTPOS or credit card for meals, souvenirs, and extras not covered by the ticket.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair access: This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• Mobility needs: The tour involves walking on uneven surfaces and boarding or disembarking from vehicles and boats.

What’s not allowed

• Large bags: Large luggage and suitcases are not permitted on the coach or cruise.
• Smoking: Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not allowed on the coach or cruise vessel.
• Substances: Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Pets: Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Additional information

• Weather: The tour operates in all weather conditions, and the itinerary may be adjusted for safety or comfort.
• Children: Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Infants: Infant seats are available on request, so please inform the operator in advance if required.
• Meals: Meals are not included unless specified in your ticket variant, and you may bring snacks or buy food at stops.
• Facilities: Restroom breaks are provided during the journey, but facilities can be limited in remote areas.
• Arrival time: Please arrive at the meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure, as late arrivals may not be accommodated.
• Duration: The full-day tour lasts approximately 12 to 13 hours, including transfers; flight options include shorter flight sectors if selected.

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

Shorter travel, calmer crowds, the Te Anau advantage.

• Everything you get: Return coach from Te Anau with expert driver-guide, early cruise slots to beat peak crowds, scenic stops at key viewpoints, live commentary, and a relaxed 8 to 9-hour schedule that pairs well with glowworm cave visits.
• Why choose this: Best for families and planners who want less time on the road and more time in Milford Sound. Starting closer means a smoother, calmer day with fewer travel hassles.
• Upgrades: Opt for an intimate small-group tour and a small-boat boutique cruise for a more personal experience.

Inclusions

• Full-day guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau
• 2-hour Milford Sound scenic cruise
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Return transfers from Te Anau with stops for short walks
• Live commentary on board

Exclusions

• Lunch & refreshments (available to purchase onsite)

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as conditions can change quickly.
• Bring a rain jacket or waterproof outerwear, as the area is known for frequent rainfall.
• Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
• Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks, as options may be limited during the tour.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the scenic views.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on the coach or cruise vessel.
• Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited during the tour.
• Large luggage and suitcases are not allowed; bring only a small day bag.
• Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
• The tour may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility due to steps and uneven surfaces.

Additional information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions; cruises may proceed in rain or shine.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Please arrive at the designated meeting point at least 15 minutes before departure.
• Restroom facilities are available on the coach and cruise vessel.
• The itinerary and stops may vary depending on weather and road conditions.
• Infants aged 0–4 may travel free of charge but must be included in your booking.
• Meals are not included; please bring your own food or purchase at available stops.
• The experience includes return transfers between Te Anau and Milford Sound.

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

Milford’s most personal road-to-sea journey in a small group.

• Everything you get: Return transport from Queenstown in a modern small-group minibus, frequent scenic stops in Fiordland National Park, and a boutique Milford Sound cruise. Includes a gourmet picnic lunch, surprise snacks, expert driver-guides, and fast-tracked boarding.
• Why choose this: Best for families and explorers who want more. With small groups, personal guiding, and tailored stops, you’ll enjoy a crowd-free journey that feels immersive, flexible, and deeply connected to New Zealand's Fiordland.

Inclusions

• Full-day Milford Sound tour from Queenstown
• Small-group return travel by premium minivan
• Hotel pickup and drop-off at select stops
• Guided commentary by local English-speaking driver
• Scenic photo stops in Fiordland National Park
• Boutique Milford Sound sightseeing cruise
• Gourmet picnic lunch with snacks and water

Exclusions

• Child safety car seat for children under 8 years old (NZ$20 per seat if not providing your own)
• Hotel pickup from unlisted properties
• Alcohol, drinks, or additional meals not listed

• 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

What to bring

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as there will be some walking on your tour.
• Bring clothing for all weather conditions, including a rain or wind jacket.
• Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, rain gear, insect repellent, and weather-appropriate clothing.

What’s not allowed

• Non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed.
• Electric wheelchairs are not allowed.
• Bikes are not allowed.
• Alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• Children under 8 years old are required to travel in a child safety car seat. These can be supplied for NZ$20 per seat or you may bring your own. Please advise the ages of children when booking.
• Kindly advise of any dietary requirements when booking.
• You will receive an email with important pickup details the day before your tour. Please read this carefully.
• This is a small-group tour by minivan.
• The weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable; it is recommended to bring clothing for all weather conditions.

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

Go further, worry less with Queenstown/Te Anau transfers and/or lunch included.

• Everything you get: Up to 2 hours exploring the outer fjord, with onboard nature specialists sharing insights, indoor seating and café for comfort, wheelchair access, multiple waterfall passes, and free tea/coffee to keep you refreshed.
• Why choose this: Best for travelers who value convenience and comfort. Skip the stress of self-driving and let transfers handle the logistics.
• Upgrades: Choose transfers from Queenstown (approx. 4 hrs each way) or Te Anau (approx. 2 hrs each way), plus option to add a picnic lunch.

Inclusions

• Up to a 2-hour extended cruise of Milford Sound
• Expert naturalist commentary
• Complimentary tea & coffee onboard
• Access to a licensed bar onboard
• Wildlife spotting guide
• Indoor and outdoor viewing decks
• Full-day tour to Milford Sound with round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)
• Picnic lunch (check menu here) (if option selected)

Exclusions

• Other food & alcoholic beverages (available to purchase onboard)
• Parking at terminal

What to bring

• Bring a valid photo ID matching the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
• Dress warmly and in layers, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
• Bring a waterproof jacket and comfortable, non-slip footwear.
• Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery.
• Bring your preferred payment method for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.

What’s not allowed

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted on board.
• Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is strictly prohibited on the vessel.
• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.
• Large luggage and bulky items are not permitted on the cruise.

Accessibility

• The cruise is not wheelchair accessible. Guests with limited mobility may find access challenging.

Additional information

• Please arrive at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure time for check-in.
• The cruise operates in all weather conditions; cruises may be subject to change or cancellation in extreme weather.
• Milford Sound is a natural environment so wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
• Children must be supervised by an adult at all times.
• Restrooms are available on board.
• Commentary is provided during the cruise to enhance your experience.
• Infants aged 0–3 can join free of charge but must be included in your booking.
• Seating is available both indoors and outdoors, but is not assigned.

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

Enjoy a fully private cabin with dedicated host and gourmet menu for a relaxed uncrowded cruise.

• Full day out to Milford Sound: Travel from Queenstown in a small-group Mercedes Sprinter, with round-trip road journey capped at 12 guests. Board the Pride of Milford for a cruise with priority access to the Captain's VIP Lounge, a fully private cabin, and enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch en route.
• You'll get: Dedicated host on board, menu of hot and cold dishes with beverages, a private outdoor viewing area, plus access to all other areas of the vessel.
• Why choose this: Helps you swap DIY trip admin for a single, preplanned Milford day so you can focus on the fiord and not the details.

Inclusions

• Milford Sound cruise
• Priority boarding and access to the Captain's VIP Lounge on the Pride of Milford
• Dedicated host throughout the cruise
• Freshly prepared picnic lunch
• Inclusive menu of hot and cold dishes and beverages
• Round-trip transfers from Queenstown in a Mercedes Sprinter
• Private outdoor viewing area
• Full access to the rest of the vessel

Additional information

• Tour type: This experience runs as a day trip with small-group transport from Queenstown.
• Transfers: Your ticket includes round-trip transfers in a Mercedes Sprinter.
• Group size: You travel with a maximum of 12 guests, keeping the group small and relaxed.
• Cruise vessel: Your Milford Sound cruise takes place on the Pride of Milford.
• VIP lounge: Your ticket includes access to the Captain's VIP Lounge, a fully private cabin.
• Host: A dedicated host looks after you throughout the cruise.
• Dining: You enjoy a freshly prepared picnic lunch plus a menu of hot and cold dishes and beverages.
• Outdoor access: You have a private outdoor viewing area and full access to the rest of the vessel.

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

The only Queenstown day trip combining a Te Anau farm tour with a Milford Sound nature cruise.

• Full day out to: Milford Sound and Te Anau Farm
• You’ll get: Glass-roofed coach transport, farm tour with morning tea, live commentary, 2-hour Milford Sound cruise, tea/coffee, and multilingual audio guide.
• Te Anau Farm Tour: Get hands-on with New Zealand’s rural traditions, see sheep shearing and working dogs, meet farm animals, and enjoy morning tea with local stories.
• Milford Sound Nature Cruise: Glide past waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife like seals and dolphins, with spacious indoor and outdoor viewing decks and engaging commentary.
• Upgrades: Opt for a picnic or buffet lunch to enjoy a delicious meal on board your Milford Sound cruise.

Inclusions

• Glass-roofed coach transportation
• USB charging ports onboard
• Farm tour in Te Anau
• Morning tea on the farm
• Live commentary
• 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
• Tea and coffee
• Audio guide via app
• 30 sections of route commentary
• Picnic lunch (based on the option chosen)
• Buffet lunch (based on the option chosen)

Exclusions

• Appropriate child restraints (must bring your own)

What to bring

• Bring warm clothing, sunglasses, a camera, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
• Wear suitable clothing and footwear for varying weather conditions, as you will visit a farm and board a cruise.

What’s not allowed

• Smoking is not permitted on any of the vessels.
• Appropriate child restraints are not provided by the activity provider. Please bring your own as without this you may be turned away and unable to travel.

Accessibility

• This experience is not wheelchair accessible.

Additional information

• The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is approximately 5 hours each way.
• Reservations may be amended to another date or time, subject to availability.
• The activity may be cancelled at any time due to unsafe weather conditions or maintenance.
• Scenic flights for the return journey are available on request, weather permitting.
• All vessels are fully licensed with a range of beverages and snack foods available for purchase.
• A free multi-language commentary app is available. Search 'Southern Discoveries' on the App Store or Google Play.

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

Glass-roof transport, extended fiord cruise, guides and a picnic lunch make planning effortless.

• Full day out to Milford Sound: Travel from Queenstown in a small-group glass-roof Mercedes vehicle with hotel return transfers and commentary along Milford Road. Join a 2-hour Discover More cruise with indoor-outdoor viewing, onboard nature guide, picnic lunch and park fees included.
• You'll get: Small-group service in a glass-roof Mercedes plus Discover More, the longest and most immersive fiord cruise, both with engaging guide commentary.
• Why choose this: Combines an in-depth road journey and extended time on the fiord in a single, pre-planned day, so you skip complex logistics and enjoy the scenery.

Inclusions

• Return small-group transport from Queenstown in a glass-roof Mercedes Sprinter, max 12 guests
• Wi-Fi, USB/USB-C charging and a chilled water dispenser onboard the vehicle
• Driver-guide commentary along the Milford Road throughout the journey
• Milford Sound Discover More Cruise, the longest cruise itinerary on the fiord
• Up to 2 hours 15 minutes cruising the full length of the fiord, with indoor cabins and outdoor viewing decks
• Onboard Nature Guide covering Milford Sound's geology, wildlife (fur seals, dolphins, Fiordland crested penguins) and history
• Picnic lunch included onboard, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available at booking
• All national park entry and cruise fees

Additional information

• Hotel transfers: Your round-trip small-group transfer operates from Southern Discoveries Visitor Centre and Frankton Bus Shelter.
• Vehicle type: You travel in a glass-roof Mercedes Sprinter with live driver-guide commentary along Milford Road.
• Cruise details: Your Milford Sound Discover More Cruise lasts just over two hours with indoor cabins and outdoor viewing decks.
• Onboard guide: An onboard Nature Guide shares insights into Milford Sound's geology, wildlife, and history throughout the cruise.

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