Discover the wildlife and waterfalls of Milford Sound on a nature cruise by purpose-built catamaran. Marvel at the majesty of Mitre Peak, get up-close to Stirling Falls as you cruise both sides of the fjord.
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
Experience
Highlights
- Discover Milford Sound on a 1-hour 45-minute nature cruise for excellent views of scenery and wildlife including seals, dolphins and penguins
- Feel the full force from the powerful 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls
- Enjoy 360-degree views from the top deck of a purpose-built catamaran for panoramic photo opportunities
- Choose from a range of lunch options or bring your own packed lunch
- Listen to lively and informative commentary on the fiord’s history, geology, and wildlife from a specialist nature guide
Full description
Climb aboard a purpose-built catamaran in Milford Sound Cruise Terminal and set sail across the water to discover the unique wildlife of one of South Island's most picturesque attractions. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee onboard and pre-purchase lunch from a range of delicious options when booking.
Journey down the south side of the fjord and out into the Tasman Sea, before returning up the north side of the fjord. Listen to a fascinating commentary about the region from a specialist nature guide, join the skipper in the open wheelhouse, and say hello to the native seals basking on the rocks as you pass them by.
Get within touching distance of impressive rock walls carved by glaciers thousands of years ago. Feel the full force of the powerful 15,000-year-old Stirling Falls. The guide will roam around the vessel providing interpretations of the history, geology and wildlife of the fjord along the way.
Includes
- 1 hour 45 minute Milford Sound nature cruise
- Complimentary tea and coffee
- Range of lunch options available (if option selected)
- Access to top deck for viewing and panoramic photo opportunities
- Large viewing windows and covered seating area
- Nature commentary
- Picnic lunch (unless option selected)
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
- Warm clothing
Know before you go
- Always be prepared to enjoy some rainfall during your visit. The landscape is especially dramatic during wet weather as rainfall creates dozens of temporary waterfalls that cascade down the cliff faces, some reaching a thousand meters in height
- 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
- Reservations may be amended to another date or time, subject to space and availability
- 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
- Lunches must be booked at least 24 hours ahead of travel
