Milford Sound day cruises New Zealand

Milford Sound is simply stunning - it is a natural wonder of world fame. In Maori legend, the fiords were created not by rivers of ice, but by Tu Te Raki Whanoa, a godly figure who came wielding a magical adze and uttering incantations. Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is without doubt his finest sculpture.

Whatever the fiord’s mood, teeming with rain or with sun glistening on deep water, it will inspire you. Nowhere in Fiordland do the mountains stand as tall, straight out of the sea. In the foreground of the fiord, stands Mitre Peak, a remarkable presence dominating the skyline.

Experience Milford Sound's grandeur with Real Journeys - offering a range of daytime cruises to suit all travellers:

Milford Sound Nature Cruises:

Leisurely and relaxed, extended cruise with specialist nature guides on board. Explore Milford Sound in a leisurely and casual way with our nature guides. Our vessels, the Milford Mariner and Milford Wanderer designed along the lines of traditional trading scows, and have been purpose built to operate in the fiords. These modern vessels offer a relaxing, extended cruise option. For those on board wanting to learn about the magnificent scenery and wildlife, our nature guide provides a detailed commentary (English only). Keep a look out for dolphins, seals and penguins.

• Duration 2hrs 30mins
• Delicious lunches are available (must be pre-ordered)
• Underwater Observatory option
• Luxury coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau
• Queenstown flight options: fly both ways or fly back after coaching into Milford (weather permitting)
• Suitable for all ages

Milford Sound Scenic Cruises:

Cruise the full length of the fiord on one of our modern, spacious vessels. Delicious food options and multi-lingual commentary. This cruise appeals to those wanting to enjoy the dramatic scenery of Milford Sound in style! Cruise the full length of Milford Sound on board one of our spacious, modern vessels offering excellent viewing opportunities. Our friendly staff provide informative commentaries in several languages and point out highlights.

• Duration 1hr 40mins
• Delicious lunches are available (must be pre-ordered)
• Underwater Observatory option
• Luxury coach connections from Queenstown and Te Anau
• Queenstown flight options: fly both ways or fly back after coaching into Milford (weather permitting)
• Suitable for all ages

Helicopter fly back to Queenstown option

Following the cruise there is a coach transfer to the Milford Airport to return to Queenstown by helicopter (weather permitting). The helicopter flight is the ultimate way to view the spectacular alpine scenery including glaciers, rivers, lakes and rainforest. Follow the fiord up the Harrison Valley and over Mt Tutoko with a snow landing on the Donne Glacier (conditions permitting), then onto the Wakatipu Basin. Transfers are provided to accommodation on arrival at Queenstown airport.

Click here for information on self drive Queenstown to Milford Sound

Milford Sound overnight cruises in the long southern twilight of spectacular Milford Sound, is a ‘once in a lifetime’ experience. Overnight cruises offers visitors the chance to relax and explore the magnificent scenery and wildlife of this world-renowned fiord. Choose from two overnight cruise options at Milford Sound