Go further, get closer, and discover more on this up-to-3-hour tour of Milford Sound that includes a picnic lunch. See it all on your cruise, including the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory.
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 3 hours
- Check availability to see starting times.
- Instant confirmation
- Live tour guide
- English
- Audio guide
- English
Experience
Highlights
- Luxuriate in the beauty of Milford Sound on one of the longest daytime experiences available in the fiord
- Immerse yourself in a mysterious undersea world at the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
- Listen to lively and informative commentary on the fiord’s history, geology, and wildlife from a specialist nature guide
- Savor a delicious picnic lunch onboard or feel free to bring your own
- Taste pure glacial water straight from the waterfalls and stand under Stirling Falls
Full description
Explore the beauty of the fiord on a vessel that’s purpose-built for the best daytime viewing. Set off on a day-trip that includes a delicious lunch, complimentary tea and coffee, and a visit to the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory.
Climb aboard a purpose-built catamaran at the Milford Sound Cruise Terminal to discover more of the fiord on an authentic and insightful experience. Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls and waterfalls. Join the skipper in the open wheelhouse and say hello to the native seals basking on the rocks as you pass them by. Knowledgeable local nature guides will ensure you discover the wildlife, nature, and history of this remarkable sanctuary. Enjoy a delicious picnic or hot buffet lunch onboard.
Visit the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory, New Zealand's only floating underwater observatory for an experience unlike any other. Hidden under the surface in Harrison Cove in the middle of Piopiotahi Marine Reserve, the Observatory enables you to experience a different perspective of the fiord. Descend 64 steps (10-metres) underwater into a large, fully air-conditioned viewing area and peer out through large windows at the deep underwater haven. Unlike an aquarium, the fish are free to come and go; it’s the people who are contained.
Includes
- Milford Sound cruise
- Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
- Picnic lunch
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Access to top deck for viewing and panoramic photo opportunities
- Large viewing windows and covered seating area
COVID-19 precautions
Safety measures in place
- All areas that customers touch are frequently cleaned
- The number of visitors is limited to reduce crowds
Traveler requirements
- Customers must bring their own headphones
- Customers are required to bring and wear masks
Select participants and date
Participants
Date
Prepare for the activity
Meeting point
Milford Sound Visitor Centre, Freshwater Basin, Milford Sound, New Zealand. Be sure to allow 5 hours driving time from Queenstown and just over 2 hours from Te Anau or opt for a coach and cruise option departing from Queenstown or Te Anau (available to book on GetYourGuide).
Open in Google Maps ⟶Important information
What to bring
- Comfortable shoes
- Warm clothing
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Jacket
- Insect repellent
Know before you go
- Always be prepared to enjoy some rainfall
- All vessels are fully licensed with a range of beverages plus a selection of snack foods. Note that smoking is not permitted on any of the vessels.
- Timetables, cruise departures and vessels may vary. In the interest of your safety, the local operator may cancel any cruise at any time due to unsafe weather conditions or boat maintenance.
