Explore Milford Sound on an award-winning boutique small-boat cruise that will get you closer to the cascading waterfalls and introduce you to the local wildlife. With limited passengers on board, you'll have the space to fully explore this magical place.
About this activity
- Free cancellation
- Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund
- COVID-19 precautions
- Special health and safety measures apply. Learn more
- Mobile ticketing
- Use your phone or print your voucher
- Duration 2 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Wheelchair accessible
Experience
Highlights
- Explore a fjord that was carved by glaciers over millions of years
- Cruise past mountains rising straight out of the sea
- Relax on a comfortable lounge-style sofas onboard
Full description
Your cruise will begin at one of the most scenic points of the journey. You can take in the magnificent view of Mitre Peak (New Zealand's most photographed mountain) and the Sinbad Gully. This place is home to the Kakapo (world's heaviest flightless parrot), which was once thought to be extinct but was rediscovered in 1948.
From there you will cruise past seal colonies and feel the spray of the waterfall as you travel directly under the Fairy Falls. Once the cruise reaches the Tasman Sea, you will get to see the hidden entrance to the Milford Sound (which Captain Cook missed twice on his explorations). On your return journey, you will find yourself underneath an even bigger waterfall, the Sterling Falls. If you feel like a world-famous "glacial facial", don't miss the opportunity here to do so.
Throughout your tour, nature guides will entertain you with local anecdotes, as well as offer extra information on the passing flora and fauna. They are also there to help you with taking photos and assist with any requirements you may have. Around November you will have the chance to spot the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin.
Includes
- Milford Sound visitor levy
- Coffee, tea, and biscuits
- Hotel pickup and drop off
- Food and drinks
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All required protective equipment is provided
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Please check-in at the Cruise Milford counter (second on the left when entering the visitor terminal).
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
Know before you go
- It takes approximately 10 minutes to walk from the public car park to the terminal building (from November to March, please plan extra time to find a car park as you may have to park in the "Bus & Ride" area further away)
- For extra information and tips, you can call or visit the website
- There is no cell phone reception or WiFi in the Fiordland National Park
- Free coffee, tea, and biscuits are provided during the cruise and you are welcome to bring extra snacks and drinks along with you
- The cruise has a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Please note that from 1 October 2019 there will be a $10 per hour charge for the Milford Sound visitor carpark
