Milford Sound Cruises and Activities from Te Anau

They say that no visit to New Zealand is complete without taking a cruise on the magnificent Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park. There are plenty of options available from Te Anau – from day to overnight cruises, cruise and walk combos, as well as kayaking trips.

Nature vs Scenic Cruises

The Scenic and Nature Cruises follow the same route in Milford Sound. The Scenic Cruises have multi-lingual commentary on selected departures, a wide range of lunch options, large viewing decks on comfortable modern vessels and are shorter (1hr 30-40mins) than the Nature Cruises (2hrs - 2hrs 15mins). The Nature Cruises have English-only commentary, and an on-board nature guide, picnic lunches and smaller vessels (predominantly designed along the lines of traditional trading scows).

Wanderer vs Mariner Overnight Cruises

Each cruise has the same focus on sharing the wonders of Milford Sound through in-depth commentaries and activities (wildlife viewing and cruising in the tender craft). However, they do differ:

- the Milford Mariner: offers private cabins with ensuite bathrooms and activities include kayaking or cruising in the tendercraft. Available mid-September - mid-May.

- the Milford Wanderer offers twin-share compartments with shared bathroom facilities and activities include a guided walk on part of the Milford Track or exploring the shoreline by tendercraft. Available November - March.