Milford Sound: Wilderness Cruise with Nature Guide

Highlights

  • Experience the spray of a waterfall as you cruise close to sheer rock faces

  • Cruise the full length of the fiord towards the Tasman Sea

  • Enjoy commentary from specialist nature guides

  • Benefit from great views from both the outdoor decks and indoor lounges

  • Look out for dolphins, seals and penguins

  • Enjoy locally curated food options, craft beer and barista coffee from onboard cafe

Summary

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Milford Sound/Piopiotahi. Discover unparalleled landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and inquisitive wildlife on a 2-hour tour of what's been called the "eighth wonder of the world".

Tour info

Duration
2 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary

Why take this tour?

Experience the natural wonderland of Milford Sounds sheer cliffs and get up close to thundering waterfalls. Your experienced skippers customize the cruise route on the day depending on the weather and wildlife sightings to ensure you see the best of Milford Sound. Keep a lookout for wildlife, including seals, dolphins and the Fiordland Crested penguins. 

The purpose-built Haven Vessel has large windows, spacious decks and relaxed lounges which offer uninterrupted views of the dramatic Fiordland landscape. Soak in the views with delicious locally sourced food and a selection of beverages. The Haven Vessel hosts a fully licenced bar with tap beer from local breweries; barista coffee and organic tea options as well as a curated A la Carte menu and Café style cabinet foods available to purchase.  Sit back, relax and take in the magnificent views of Milford Sound. 

What’s included?

  • • 2-hour Milford Sound cruise

  • • State of the art vessel with indoor and outdoor areas

  • • Commentary by knowledgeable nature guides

  • • Food and drinks can be purchased from licensed bar on board

Things to know

Before you book

  • • You might like to spend the night in Te Anau as the trip to Milford and back from Queenstown can be tiring. Leave plenty of time to stop at the many scenic trails and lookouts along the way

  • • Allow 5-6 hours (one-way) driving time from Queenstown and 3 hours (one-way) from Te Anau

  • • Bring sensible clothing and footwear for cool and wet weather to fully appreciate your visit

  • • Driving conditions during winter (May to September) can be difficult and extreme care is needed. During winter it is mandatory to carry snow chains in your vehicle, available for hire from most petrol stations

  • • Parking fees apply as per the Milford Sound Tourism LTD

  • • Alternative vessels or coaches may be used, for example during survey periods

Before you go

  • • Check-in is required at Milford Sound Visitor Terminal at least 20 minutes prior to departure

  • • The vessel used may be the Milford Haven or Milford Mariner

  • • Parking in Milford Sound is subject to parking fees set by the government group in charge of the National Park. Please allow up to 1 hour in busy seasons to find a parking spot and walk to the visitor terminal

  • • Bring non-slip shoes or boots, a waterproof jacket, a warm sweater or fleece jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a camera

Cancellation Policy

    Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

About operator:

Our family business was founded in Fiordland in the 1950’s by tourism and conservation pioneers Les and Olive Hutchins. 
Sixty years later, we offer tourism experiences from Stewart Island to Queenstown; including world renowned cruises through Milford and Doubtful Sounds, the Te Anau Glowworm Caves and heritage steamship TSS Earnslaw.
For us, the aim is still quite simple – to share the natural heritage and astounding beauty of the region with visitors – just as our founders intended.