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Sightseeing Cruises

Milford Sound Extended Cruise by Southern Discoveries

Cruise passengers enjoying Milford Sound views with mountains and clear water.
Tourists on a boat watching dolphins in Milford Sound, New Zealand.
Tourists on a Milford Sound cruise with a seal on rocks and boat in background, New Zealand.
Cruise boat on Milford Sound with passengers, surrounded by lush cliffs.

Duration

3 hr

Open today

09:00am - 04:00pm

Free cancellation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change.

Guided tour

    • Extend your adventure with a 3-hour journey that travels further into the outer fjord, offering more time on the water than standard cruises.

    • Discover dramatic landscapes shaped by glaciers, from towering cliffs to hidden waterfalls that shorter trips may miss.

    • Learn from onboard nature guides who share fascinating insights into Fiordland’s wildlife, geology, and conservation efforts.

    • Relax on spacious vessels designed for comfort, with indoor lounges, open viewing decks, and family-friendly facilities.

    • Enjoy the most comprehensive day-cruise option in Milford Sound, giving you extra time to soak in the scenery at an unhurried pace.

    • Up to a 3-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

    • Food & alcoholic beverages (available to purchase onboard)

    • Parking at terminal

  • TOTAL DURATION2 hours 45 minutes - 3 hours 5 minutes
    MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
    FIRST DEPARTURESinbad Gully & Mitre Peak
    LAST DEPARTURESinbad Gully & Mitre Peak
    Timeline
    Map
    Milford Sound Terminal
    Start point

    Milford Sound Terminal

    Get direction

    Passes By

    Milford Sound Terminal
    End point

    Milford Sound Terminal

    Get direction

    Your ending point would be same as your start point

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

  • Cruise through Milford Sound’s dramatic fjords with an expert guide, enjoying panoramic views and wildlife spotting on board.

    Getting started

    Board your vessel at the designated Milford Sound terminal, where your ticket will be validated before embarkation. After a brief introduction from your guide, settle in on the indoor or outdoor decks as the cruise prepares to depart.

    What to expect

    Recognized as one of New Zealand’s most iconic natural wonders, Milford Sound is a glacier-carved fjord renowned for its sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and rich marine life. This cruise offers a close-up perspective of the region’s unique geography and thriving ecosystem.

    Features
    • Indoor and outdoor viewing decks: Move freely between sheltered and open-air spaces for uninterrupted views of towering cliffs and waterfalls.

    • Live commentary from expert guide: Gain insights into the fjord’s geological history, local legends, and the diverse wildlife that call these waters home.

    • Wildlife spotting: Keep watch for native fur seals basking on rocks, playful dolphins riding the bow wave, and, in season, rare Fiordland crested penguins along the shoreline.

    • Complimentary tea and coffee: Enjoy a warm beverage as you take in the scenery and listen to stories about this extraordinary landscape.

  • Milford Sound underwater observatory

    Monday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Tuesday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Wednesday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Thursday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Friday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Saturday09:00am - 04:00pm
    Sunday09:00am - 04:00pm
  • 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.

    • Your voucher will be emailed to you shortly.

    • Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the boarding point.

    • Please arrive at the boarding point 15 mins before the scheduled time of your cruise to avoid any delays.

    Boarding point

    • Board your cruise at Southern Discoveries - Milford Sound Visitor Centre.

    • Address: Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound Highway 94, Milford Sound 9679, New Zealand.

    Get directions to the boarding point

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