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Top things to do in Milford Sound

Milford Sound Cruises

Get spectacular views and breathtaking panoramas of the Tasman Sea and the Mitre Peak at Milford Sound. Sail along the 16km fiord, and marvel at the beauty of St Annes Point Lighthouse. Get informational commentary onboard and learn about Lion Mountain, Copper Point, Seal Rock and Stirling Falls as you pass them by.

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Milford Sound Cruises
4.8(1,724)
Sightseeing Cruises
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
2 more
  • Cruise beneath glacier-carved cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, with both open decks for photographers and indoor lounges for all-weather comfort.

  • Spot fur seals, penguins, and dolphins along the fjord while guides share engaging live commentary about Fiordland’s wildlife and geology.

  • Book with confidence knowing multiple operators and departure slots give you better seat availability, even in peak season.

  • Choose the core cruise-only option for a flexible, great-value Milford experience without unnecessary extras.

  • Upgrade to a Fly–Cruise–Fly package from Queenstown to swap the 13-hour coach journey for a 5-hour trip with sweeping alpine and glacier views.

More details

  • Cruise beneath glacier-carved cliffs and tumbling waterfalls, with both open decks for photographers and indoor lounges for all-weather comfort.

  • Spot fur seals, penguins, and dolphins along the fjord while guides share engaging live commentary about Fiordland’s wildlife and geology.

  • Book with confidence knowing multiple operators and departure slots give you better seat availability, even in peak season.

  • Choose the core cruise-only option for a flexible, great-value Milford experience without unnecessary extras.

  • Upgrade to a Fly–Cruise–Fly package from Queenstown to swap the 13-hour coach journey for a 5-hour trip with sweeping alpine and glacier views.

from
NZ$145
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
2 more
  • Glide through Milford Sound aboard a 2-hour panoramic cruise featuring live nature commentary and unmatched waterfall views.

  • Choose boats with distinct vibes: chill in The Haven’s rooftop beer garden, pose on Mariner’s spacious deck, or relax in Sovereign/Monarch’s luxurious indoor lounges.

  • Make the ride your own: Settle into casual comfort, stand in the spray, or enjoy elevated relaxation, depending on your mood.

  • Expert skippers adapt the route to match wildlife movements and weather, giving you the best of each moment.

  • Frequent daily departures and all-weather sailings mean you can slot this into your itinerary with full flexibility.

More details

  • Glide through Milford Sound aboard a 2-hour panoramic cruise featuring live nature commentary and unmatched waterfall views.

  • Choose boats with distinct vibes: chill in The Haven’s rooftop beer garden, pose on Mariner’s spacious deck, or relax in Sovereign/Monarch’s luxurious indoor lounges.

  • Make the ride your own: Settle into casual comfort, stand in the spray, or enjoy elevated relaxation, depending on your mood.

  • Expert skippers adapt the route to match wildlife movements and weather, giving you the best of each moment.

  • Frequent daily departures and all-weather sailings mean you can slot this into your itinerary with full flexibility.

from
NZ$169
5(1,900)
Sightseeing Cruises
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
1 more
  • Set sail on a boutique vessel cruise through Milford Sound, with panoramic decks for unbeatable fjord and waterfall views.

  • Premium feel without the premium price tag; pay a little more than big boats, gain a lot more atmosphere.

  • Smaller hull, bigger encounters: get within meters of seal colonies and closer to birdlife while the skipper maneuvers into hidden coves.

  • Onboard commentary brings the region’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife to life as you cruise.

  • Glide past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and thundering waterfalls—nature’s show at every turn.

  • Choose the guided walk upgrade for an expert-led Milford Track adventure, adding an iconic hiking experience to your cruise.

More details

  • Set sail on a boutique vessel cruise through Milford Sound, with panoramic decks for unbeatable fjord and waterfall views.

  • Premium feel without the premium price tag; pay a little more than big boats, gain a lot more atmosphere.

  • Smaller hull, bigger encounters: get within meters of seal colonies and closer to birdlife while the skipper maneuvers into hidden coves.

  • Onboard commentary brings the region’s dramatic landscapes and wildlife to life as you cruise.

  • Glide past towering cliffs, lush rainforests, and thundering waterfalls—nature’s show at every turn.

  • Choose the guided walk upgrade for an expert-led Milford Track adventure, adding an iconic hiking experience to your cruise.

from
NZ$169
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
2 more
  • Settle into a comfortable coach transfer from Queenstown or Te Anau. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with dramatic Fiordland landscapes unfolding outside your window.

  • Upgrade your day with a freshly packed lunchbox filled with local produce. It’s the perfect way to refuel as you drift past Milford's cliffs and waterfalls.

  • Wander between spacious indoor lounges and open-air decks. Whether you prefer the warmth of a seat by the café or the thrill of mist on your face, you’ll always have a front-row view.

  • Onboard nature specialists share legends, geological wonders, and wildlife insights that bring the landscape to life beyond what you see.

  • With more time on the cruise, you’ll have greater chances to spot wildlife, from dolphins surfing the bow and fur seals stretched out on the rocks to rare Fiordland crested penguins.

More details

  • Settle into a comfortable coach transfer from Queenstown or Te Anau. The journey itself is part of the adventure, with dramatic Fiordland landscapes unfolding outside your window.

  • Upgrade your day with a freshly packed lunchbox filled with local produce. It’s the perfect way to refuel as you drift past Milford's cliffs and waterfalls.

  • Wander between spacious indoor lounges and open-air decks. Whether you prefer the warmth of a seat by the café or the thrill of mist on your face, you’ll always have a front-row view.

  • Onboard nature specialists share legends, geological wonders, and wildlife insights that bring the landscape to life beyond what you see.

  • With more time on the cruise, you’ll have greater chances to spot wildlife, from dolphins surfing the bow and fur seals stretched out on the rocks to rare Fiordland crested penguins.

from
NZ$199
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
2 more
  • Enjoy door-to-door convenience with transfers that eliminate the need for alpine driving or parking stress.

  • Travel the Milford Road with guided commentary and photo stops at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and The Chasm.

  • Pick your comfort level between a standard coach or a premium small-group service for a more personalized trip.

  • Relax knowing coach, cruise, and stop timings are carefully coordinated to avoid wasted waiting time.

  • Experience Milford Sound highlights in a seamless full-day itinerary designed for first-time visitors and non-drivers.

More details

  • Enjoy door-to-door convenience with transfers that eliminate the need for alpine driving or parking stress.

  • Travel the Milford Road with guided commentary and photo stops at Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and The Chasm.

  • Pick your comfort level between a standard coach or a premium small-group service for a more personalized trip.

  • Relax knowing coach, cruise, and stop timings are carefully coordinated to avoid wasted waiting time.

  • Experience Milford Sound highlights in a seamless full-day itinerary designed for first-time visitors and non-drivers.

from
NZ$245
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
3 more
  • Enjoy a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown, either by scenic flight or coach. Visit Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, and Homer Tunnel if traveling by coach.

  • All experiences include a Milford Sound cruise with live commentary, plus tea, coffee, and all taxes and fees covered.

  • See Milford Sound’s dramatic scenery from the water, with expert commentary bringing the landscape to life, and its geographical sights from above

  • This seamless day trip includes hotel transfers from Queenstown, making it hassle-free for visitors looking to save time.

  • Choose between a round-trip flight experience or go for a one-way coach transfer to get the best of both views.

More details

  • Enjoy a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown, either by scenic flight or coach. Visit Mirror Lakes, Knobs Flat, and Homer Tunnel if traveling by coach.

  • All experiences include a Milford Sound cruise with live commentary, plus tea, coffee, and all taxes and fees covered.

  • See Milford Sound’s dramatic scenery from the water, with expert commentary bringing the landscape to life, and its geographical sights from above

  • This seamless day trip includes hotel transfers from Queenstown, making it hassle-free for visitors looking to save time.

  • Choose between a round-trip flight experience or go for a one-way coach transfer to get the best of both views.

from
NZ$749
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
1 more
  • Start your guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau. Start closer and breathe easier: shorter travel times mean a relaxed 8–9-hour day with crowd-beating schedules.

  • Catch earlier cruise departures, then enjoy quieter afternoon photo stops on the return; more nature, less queue.

  • Travel in comfort on a coach with live commentary, bringing the region’s stories and landscapes to life.

  • The short walks and photo ops at sights like Pops Lookout and Christie Falls best highlight Milford Sound’s geology and unique ecosystems.

  • Marvel at dramatic fjords and waterfalls during your Milford Sound cruise; camera at the ready for every angle.

More details

  • Start your guided tour of Milford Sound from Te Anau. Start closer and breathe easier: shorter travel times mean a relaxed 8–9-hour day with crowd-beating schedules.

  • Catch earlier cruise departures, then enjoy quieter afternoon photo stops on the return; more nature, less queue.

  • Travel in comfort on a coach with live commentary, bringing the region’s stories and landscapes to life.

  • The short walks and photo ops at sights like Pops Lookout and Christie Falls best highlight Milford Sound’s geology and unique ecosystems.

  • Marvel at dramatic fjords and waterfalls during your Milford Sound cruise; camera at the ready for every angle.

from
NZ$205
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
2 more
  • Stay on Milford Sound after the day boats leave and watch the fjord transform with sunset colors, starlit skies, and morning calm.

  • Sleep in the comfort of a private cabin and wake to mirrored dawn reflections that no day visitor ever sees.

  • Join guided evening activities such as kayaking, tender boat excursions, and nature talks that deepen your connection to the landscape.

  • Choose this overnight experience for honeymoons, anniversaries, or photography trips where golden and blue hour light matter most.

  • Opt for round-trip coach transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau for a seamless, stress-free journey to and from the cruise.

More details

  • Stay on Milford Sound after the day boats leave and watch the fjord transform with sunset colors, starlit skies, and morning calm.

  • Sleep in the comfort of a private cabin and wake to mirrored dawn reflections that no day visitor ever sees.

  • Join guided evening activities such as kayaking, tender boat excursions, and nature talks that deepen your connection to the landscape.

  • Choose this overnight experience for honeymoons, anniversaries, or photography trips where golden and blue hour light matter most.

  • Opt for round-trip coach transfers from Queenstown or Te Anau for a seamless, stress-free journey to and from the cruise.

from
NZ$1,288
Free cancellation
Book now, pay later
Flexible duration
1 more
  • Soar above Fiordland’s grandeur with a guided helicopter journey that reveals the Southern Alps, deep fjords, and cascading waterfalls from airframes few visitors ever experience.

  • Enjoy an intimate, personalized flight, capped at just six guests per helicopter, with guaranteed window views and expert pilot commentary.

  • Land in unforgettable places, from the heart of Milford Sound for a guided walk beneath sheer cliffs and through ancient rainforest, to remote glacier or alpine sites.

  • Feel safe and cared for throughout, with a modern Airbus helicopter, full safety briefing, and experienced crew ensuring peace of mind.

  • Turn a bucket-list moment into a seamless adventure, with efficient, stress-free timing from Queenstown and logistics handled to perfection.

More details

  • Soar above Fiordland’s grandeur with a guided helicopter journey that reveals the Southern Alps, deep fjords, and cascading waterfalls from airframes few visitors ever experience.

  • Enjoy an intimate, personalized flight, capped at just six guests per helicopter, with guaranteed window views and expert pilot commentary.

  • Land in unforgettable places, from the heart of Milford Sound for a guided walk beneath sheer cliffs and through ancient rainforest, to remote glacier or alpine sites.

  • Feel safe and cared for throughout, with a modern Airbus helicopter, full safety briefing, and experienced crew ensuring peace of mind.

  • Turn a bucket-list moment into a seamless adventure, with efficient, stress-free timing from Queenstown and logistics handled to perfection.

from
NZ$1,180

Explore more destinations from Milford Sound

1

Hikers on Milford Track with mountain view in New Zealand.

Milford Track

Embark on the journey of a lifetime along the breathtaking Milford Track. Join our guided walking tour to Giant Gate Falls and explore New Zealand's pristine wilderness. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

2

Cruise boat on Milford Sound with scenic mountain backdrop, New Zealand.

Queenstown

Explore our diverse range of Milford Sound scenic flights and tours. Whether you choose a classic Fly-Cruise-Fly combo, a luxurious helicopter trip with a glacier landing, or a quick scenic overflight, you'll experience Fiordland National Park's landscape from a unique perspective.

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Millions love heading out with us

Alan Winter
AU

Alan

Australia
Oct 2025
5/5

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Jeremy did a great job with the driving and commentary. Cruise was great as was the packed lunch. We lucked out with the weather and ALMOST got a shot of Mitre Peak!

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Rachel Saquing
US

Rachel

United States
Oct 2025
5/5

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Amazing and accommodating staff. We went on the 11:15 time slot and there wasn't much of a crowd. We were able to roam freely in around the boat for the best views!! The rain and weather added to the breathtaking experience. The views were spectacular and truly otherworldly!!

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

Michael Barnes
AU

Michael

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5

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+2 more

Felt totally in awe of Milford Sound. Pure Milford cruises were professional staff and extremely knowledgeable of the cruise and of Milford Sound. Well presented modern boat with great food and bevvies

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

CESAR AUGUSTO PADILLA HERNANDEZ
MX

Cesar

Mexico
Sep 2025
5/5

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+1 more

We are very happy with our trip, we were treated wonderfully and milfour sound really worth it, the plane ride over the snowy Alps and the fjord are amazing, I would do it again 100% the waterfalls and rainbows are really an experience worth living !!!! My congratulations to the whole team and especially Cúrc our pilot super friendly and very good level of service.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise

Izzah Haidah Binte Osman
SG

Izzah

Singapore
May 2025
5/5

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Loved the small boat and that we could get close to the waterfall. My husband and I were happy to be able to stand in front of the boat while the boat was turning. Best experience of our trip! Thanks so much and for the skipper for all the information given during the tour.

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

David Sitters
AU

David

Australia
Sep 2025
5/5
Everything was awesome. Paulie our coach driver was excellent. Funny, informative and a safe driver. Learnt so much about the wildlife and terrain. I would recommend this experience to anyone

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Sanjay Maiti
US

Sanjay

United States
Aug 2025
5/5
Outstanding experience and journey. Appreciate all Blake's explanation and exceptional driving skills to take us back home. Thank You and will repeat.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Axel Drexhage
DE

Axel

Germany
Feb 2025
5/5
All went perfectly. The drivers were cool and drove safely. We got good informations about the region and the Doubtful Sound. The stay in quiet without machines were fantastic.

From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise

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