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Book Milford Sound Cruises
Select your experience
- Best for budget-conscious travelers and backpacking enthusiasts traveling through Milford Sound.
- Book this if you’re after a flexible Milford Sound experience that won't break the bank, with live commentary and complimentary tea or coffee included.
- What’s unique: The flexibility to tailor your adventure, perfect if you're staying in Milford Sound and want to combine nearby activities.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
- Best for budget-conscious travelers and backpacking enthusiasts traveling through Milford Sound.
- Book this if you’re after a flexible Milford Sound experience that won't break the bank, with live commentary and complimentary tea or coffee included.
- What’s unique: The flexibility to tailor your adventure, perfect if you're staying in Milford Sound and want to combine nearby activities.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
Inclusions
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Live commentary
- Complimentary tea or coffee onboard
Exclusions
- Other food and beverages (available for purchase onboard)
- Tip: head to the upper deck when approaching Stirling Falls – the captain often maneuvers the boat close enough for you to feel the spray.
- Wheelchairs and prams/strollers can be brought on board as long as they fold to fit through the entrance of the boat.
- 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.
- Best for solo travelers looking for an interactive, small-group Milford Sound cruise or active adventurers wanting a more immersive encounter with a Milford Track trek.
- Book this if you want flexibility between a scenic cruise only or combine it with a guided walk on the famous Milford Track for a land and sea adventure.
- What's unique: a comprehensive Milford Sound experience with the option to explore by both water and land, with the walk offering up-close interaction with the environment.
- Sights seen: Unobstructed views in a small-group setting of Arthur River, Lake Ada, Giant's Gate waterfall, Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and more.
- Best for solo travelers looking for an interactive, small-group Milford Sound cruise or active adventurers wanting a more immersive encounter with a Milford Track trek.
- Book this if you want flexibility between a scenic cruise only or combine it with a guided walk on the famous Milford Track for a land and sea adventure.
- What's unique: a comprehensive Milford Sound experience with the option to explore by both water and land, with the walk offering up-close interaction with the environment.
- Sights seen: Unobstructed views in a small-group setting of Arthur River, Lake Ada, Giant's Gate waterfall, Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and more.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Complimentary tea and coffee on board
- Small boat cruise of up to 75 people
- Live commentary on cruise
Milford Track Guided Walk (if option selected)
- 3.5-hour Milford Track guided walk
- English-speaking guide for walk
- Small group of up to 12 people for guided walk
- Round-trip water taxi transfers from Deep Water Basin to Sandfly Point
- Safety gear for guided walk
- Tip: 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- 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
- Lunch (as per option selected)
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Best for solo travelers and couples who want to experience the immersive beauty of Milford Sound in an intimate and personal setting.
- Book this if you’re after a premium Milord Sound Cruise that lets you take in its unique beauty in a quieter and comfortable setting.
- What’s unique: The 2.5-hour cruise lets you take in Milford Sound without a large crowd while enjoying a carefully curated canape menu and some champagne.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, Keas, Fiordland crested penguins, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
- Best for solo travelers and couples who want to experience the immersive beauty of Milford Sound in an intimate and personal setting.
- Book this if you’re after a premium Milord Sound Cruise that lets you take in its unique beauty in a quieter and comfortable setting.
- What’s unique: The 2.5-hour cruise lets you take in Milford Sound without a large crowd while enjoying a carefully curated canape menu and some champagne.
- Sights seen: Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Rock, Keas, Fiordland crested penguins, New Zealand fur seals on Seal Rock, and more!
Inclusions
- 2.5-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Expert nature guide
- Small group experience
- Live commentary on cruise
- Curated canape menu
- A glass of Mumm Champagne
- Reserved seating
- Round-trip transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau (based on option selected)
- Tip: If you are driving up from Queenstown, stay overnight in Te Anau as the trip to and back from Milford Sound can get very tiring.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- Guests must inform the operator of their dietary requirements when making their booking.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- 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.
3 best ways to experience Milford Sound cruises
Standard Milford Sound cruise
Why choose this experience?
- Once you’ve arrived at Milford Sound, all you need now is to get into the waters and view the surrounding peaks from the town’s incredible vantage point!
- Get an expert guide in every cruise. Choose from a variety of upgradable options that include small-group tours, premium experiences, meal options and overnight stay.
Recommended experiences:
- 2-Hour Milford Sound Cruise
- Overnight Milford Sound Cruise
Milford Sound cruises with coach transfers
Why choose this experience?
- If you’re staying at nearby towns like Queenstown or Te Anau, this is a more convenient and safer option that offers comfortable coach transfers with a driver experienced in navigating in alpine road conditions.
- Along with a standard cruise, catch glimpses of attractions like Mirror Lakes, The Divide and Lake Gunn on your way to Milford Sound and hear stories about them from your expert guide.
Recommended experiences:
- From Te Anau: Milford Cruise, Lunch & Return Transfers
- From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
Milford Sound cruise with scenic flyover
Why choose this experience?
- A more adventurous and scenic option, choose to fly above the Southern Alps either one way or both ways while traveling between Queenstown and Milford Sound.
- Although a pricier option, you get your bang for the buck with a small-sized group, hotel pickups and brilliant top views of the Fiordland National Park, Lake Wakatipu and more.
Recommended experiences:
- From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise
What to expect on a Milford Sound cruise?
Check-in
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the time mentioned on your voucher to allow sufficient time to check-in and settle down in the boat before departure. The captain may also share some tips and safety measures for you to follow during the cruise.
Route
All Milford Sound cruises more or less follow the same route - the boat goes along the left side of the fiord out towards the Tasman Sea. Once you’ve reached the open water or Anita Bay, the boat turns back to cruise along the right side of the fiord and then drops you back at the Milford Sound wharf.
Key sights
Along your journey, the captain will make several short stops at notable attractions like Mitre Peak, Copper Point, Fairy Falls and more. Listen to your cruise guide for fascinating local tales and historical facts about each tourist point. If there’s enough time on your cruise, you may even take short walks along the shore to view them up close.
Boat options
Choose between two popular catamarans for your cruise, the Maiden of Milford and the Gem of the Sound. Get brilliant panoramic views of the nearby peaks through giant windows or a glass ceiling. Just so you don’t miss anything, the boat also has a live feed that will be cast through the journey.
Know before you visit
Timings
Best time to visit
Boarding point
Transfers
Facilities
What to bring
Rules
Special requests
A standard Milford Sound cruise lasts about 2 hours. However, some premium cruises can last up to 3 hours to include more stops along the way.
Several operators offer Milford Sound cruises in multiple slots, some that begin as early as 8:45am. The last cruise departs at 3:30pm.
You’ll see a lot more cruises towards midday to accommodate tourists traveling from Queenstown or Te Anau.
Boarding time: The timings mentioned on your voucher is the departure time of your cruise. Arrive at least 15 minutes before this time to comfortably board your cruise and settle down before departure.
Peak season: Summer (Dec to Feb)
Low season: Winter (Jun - Aug)
Milford Sound makes for a wonderful visit at any time of the year, except for winter when it gets quite cold on the fiord.
Summer (13 to 15°C) has warm weather, plenty of daylight, frequent showers and floating mist at Milford Sound. However, it also brings the most tourists and afternoon cruises can get extremely crowded.
Spring (Sep - Nov) and Autumn (Mar to May) are also great times to take a Milford Sound cruise, especially if you prefer lesser crowds. Spring-time includes clear skies and lush waterfalls and fewer showers compared to the summer. Autumn has far lesser crowds with more affordable cruise options and the weather is also quite pleasant
Milford Sound jetty: Milford Sound Visitor Centre (Terminal and Boat Harbour, 1 Milford Sound Highway, Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand. Find on Maps
At any time, multiple vessels are preparing and departing for their journey near the jetty. Follow the directions mentioned on your voucher to reach the exact boarding point location for your cruise.
By bus: The nearest bus stop is the Milford Sound stop that’s located right next to the wharf. Coaches will stop here for you to proceed to boarding.
By car:
- From Te Anau - Distance: 117 km, Travel time: 2 hours
- From Queenstown - Distance: 286 km, Travel time: 4 hours
Parking:
- Milford Sound public car park (800 m) is the nearest paid parking facility.
Although the roads to Milford Sound are well maintained, it has its challenges. During the winter, icy road conditions can get especially dangerous if you don’t have experience navigating them.
Instead, we highly recommend that you pick a day trip that offers comfortable return transfers to and from Te Anau or Queenstown. Most day trips have air conditioned coaches with expert drivers who will take care of the commute for you.
Depending on your tour, you will either be picked up near a prominent landmark in either Queenstown or Te Anau, or you can mention the name of your accommodation while booking your tickets to get hotel transfers.
- Expert nature guide
- Trained crew
- Wheelchair accessibility (confirm while booking)
- Reserved seating
- Private cabins (for overnight cruise)
- Dress warm: Temperatures on the water can get quite chilly, even when the sun is out. Carry additional layers to keep yourself warm.
- Carry rain gear: Being the wettest region in New Zealand, rains can be unexpected and cruises will continue operating even in light showers.
- Wear sturdy shoes: We recommend boots or closed shoes with good grip. Even if there are no showers, you will need sturdy shoes for when you explore the waterfalls.
- Have some cash in hand: Keep some cash with you in local currency for when you want to buy snacks or souvenirs.
- Get your medication: If you’re prone to seasickness or have other pre-existing conditions, keep all the medicines you need with you as they may be unavailable onsite during emergencies.
- Bring insect repellents: Sandflies are common at Milford Sound so come prepared with insect repellents.
- Don’t forget sun protection: UV radiations are usually quite high in alpine regions, even if the sun isn’t out. Protect yourself with sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Pay attention to the safety briefing: Your guide will share important information about remaining safe on the boat during the cruise. Pay attention and follow the rules to the tee.
- Look out for deck obstructions: The outdoor deck on the boat can have a few obstructions so you’ll need to watch your footing.
- Stay on designated paths: If you’re getting off the boat to explore the area on foot, stay on designated pathways and avoid crossing any barricades for your own safety.
For those with mobility issues: Some Milford Sound cruises are accessible by wheelchairs and other mobility aids. Inform your cruise operator beforehand to keep the main access areas close by.
Foldable wheelchairs are ideal: Some cruises, although wheelchair accessible, can only be accommodated if they can be folded.
Dietary restrictions and vegetarian meals: The meal included cruises provide both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. You can also request for special dietary accommodations like gluten-free food, allergies or vegan options.
Note: We suggest that you mention any special requests while booking your tickets to keep your cruise operator informed.
Popular sights along a Milford Sound cruise
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Frequently asked questions about Milford Sound cruises
What can I expect on a Milford Sound cruise?
Milford Sound cruises begin at the wharf and take you along the left side of the fiord, covering important sights along the way. The boat turns around once you reach Anita Bay or Tasman Sea to cover the sights on the other side of the fiord.
Are Milford Sound cruises kid-friendly?
Yes! Milford Sound cruises are perfect for families, offering plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty. There are kid-friendly amenities, and the shorter cruises make it easy for children to stay engaged.
Are there accommodations near Milford Sound?
There is just one accommodation option at Milford Sound, the Milford Sound Lodge. However, several stay options are available at nearby towns in Te Anau and Queenstown and you can easily book a day trip from these towns to Milford Sound. We suggest that you make your hotel bookings in advance to ensure availability.
What boat options are available for Milford Sound cruises?
Milford Sound cruises are usually conducted on comfortable catamarans that remain quite stable even in rough waters. You can choose between 2 different catamarans, Maiden of Milford and Gem of the Sound.
What sights will I see on a Milford Sound cruise?
Milford Sound cruises cover several points of interest along the fiord, including Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, Bowen Falls, Lion Mountain, and wildlife such as fur seals basking on Seal Rock.
What should I bring on a Milford Sound cruise?
We suggest that you bring warm layers as it gets quite cold in the fiord. Along with this, get sunscreen, sturdy boots and any necessary medication you might need as there aren’t many pharmacies available nearby.
What time of day is best for a Milford Sound cruise?
Early morning and late afternoon cruises are ideal for avoiding the crowds. The lighting is softer during these times, enhancing the fjord’s dramatic scenery.
Can I purchase food or drinks onboard?
Many cruises offer snacks and beverages for purchase onboard, and some premium options even provide lunch. Be sure to check your specific cruise for details.
How do I reach Milford Sound for my cruise?
You can drive from Te Anau or Queenstown or take a shuttle service that offers pick-up and drop-off options. We suggest that you get a day trip that includes transfers as the road conditions can get dangerous unless you have experience in navigating alpine roads.
Are there restrooms on the cruise boats?
Yes, your boat will have accessible restrooms onboard.
How far in advance should I book my Milford Sound cruise?
It's advisable to book your cruise at least a few weeks in advance, especially during the peak tourist season from December to February, to secure your preferred time slot.
What wildlife can I expect to see during a Milford Sound cruise?
Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, penguins, and occasionally whales on your Milford Sound cruise. You can also spot a few rare native birds in the area.
Are service animals allowed on Milford Sound cruises?
Yes, service dogs are generally allowed onboard. However, it's recommended to confirm specific policies with your cruise provider while booking.
Is there parking available near Milford Sound cruise terminals?
Yes, there is a designated parking area near the Milford Sound cruise terminals.
Do Milford Sound cruises run year-round?
Yes, Milford Sound cruises operate throughout the year. However, extremely adverse weather conditions like heavy winds and thunderstorms may lead to rescheduling or cancellation of the cruise.
Are Milford Sound cruises accessible for those with disabilities?
Many cruises offer accommodations for those with disabilities. However, we suggest that you check the accessibility services available and make any special requests while booking your tickets.
Do I need to bring cash, or can I use cards on the cruise?
Most Milford Sound cruises accept both cash and card payments for onboard purchases, but it's advisable to bring some cash in the local currency just in case.