Milford Sound Scenic Tour & Cruise

South Island

Altitude Tours

from

NZ$345

per person

Book Now

View from the cruise boat sailing through Milford Sound’s dramatic fiords

Experiences

Cruises

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

Small Group Tours

South Island

Start: Queenstown

Locations: Queenstown, Te Anau

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 13 hours

Details

A Scenic Milford Road Journey in Comfort

Travel along the iconic Milford Road in a premium Mercedes Sprinter, purpose-built for comfort and sightseeing. With a maximum of 16 passengers, you’ll enjoy a relaxed small-group experience led by a friendly local guide. Along the way, stop at some of Fiordland’s most breathtaking locations including Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Pops View, and the dramatic Homer Tunnel.

Each stop offers the chance to stretch your legs, snap stunning photos, and hear fascinating local stories that bring the region to life. The ever-changing landscape—rivers, peaks, and alpine meadows—makes the journey just as memorable as the destination. With insightful commentary and plenty of photo opportunities, the road to Milford becomes a highlight of its own.

Cruise Milford Sound and Savour the Experience

Once you arrive, step aboard a small boat nature cruise through the spectacular Milford Sound, limited to just 75 passengers for a more intimate experience. Over 1 hour and 45 minutes, cruise beneath towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the lush rainforest clinging to the rock faces. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife like fur seals, dolphins, and even Fiordland crested penguins.

As you soak up the scenery, enjoy an included picnic lunch—chicken by default, but other options are available on request. This relaxed cruise allows you to truly take in the dramatic beauty of the fjord without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s a fitting finale to an unforgettable day exploring one of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.

Travellers viewing Stirling Falls from a boat on Milford Sound

Guests stepping out of the van for a scenic forest break on the way to Milford

Driver's view of The Remarkables mountain range en route to Milford Sound

Tour guests on the viewing deck of a Milford Sound cruise boat surrounded by cliffs and calm water

Small group tour guests posing by a premium van at a scenic stop on the way to Milford Sound

Scenic view of a cruise boat sailing through Milford Sound surrounded by towering mountains

New Zealand fur seal pup cuddling with its mother on a sunlit rock in Milford Sound

Waterfall in Milford Sound viewed from the deck of a cruise boat in Fiordland

Stirling Falls cascading down lush cliffs into the fjord on a Milford Sound cruise

Tour Highlights

Small group tour (max 16 guests)
Travel in a comfortable Mercedes Sprinter
Scenic stops along Milford Road, including Mirror Lakes and Homer Tunnel
Local guide with fun and informative commentary
1hr 45min small-boat cruise through Milford Sound (max 75 passengers)
Picnic lunch included

Options

Add a return plane flight from Milford to Queenstown
Add a return helicopter flight from Milford to Queenstown

Cancellations & Refunds

More than 48 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 48 hours of travel: No refund

**Note: Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

Itinerary

Begin your day with a friendly local guide picking you up from your Queenstown accommodation or a nearby location. Travel in comfort aboard a premium purpose-built Mercedes van, designed for small groups with just 16 seats, ensuring a personalised experience. Enjoy a scenic drive through Southland’s picturesque farmland before arriving in the charming town of Te Anau, where you’ll stop briefly by the lakeside for refreshments.

Enter the stunning Fiordland National Park and travel along the famous Milford Road. This scenic route showcases a unique side of New Zealand, with towering mountains, winding rivers, and the playful Kea bird. Along the way, your guide will stop for photo opportunities, short walks, and share interesting local stories and facts.

Arrive at Milford Sound and join a 1 hour 45-minute nature cruise with Cruise Milford. This small boat tour takes you close to the towering peaks, stunning waterfalls, and unique wildlife of the fjord. Along the way, a knowledgeable nature guide will share insights as you look out for dolphins, penguins, fur seals, and native birds.

After the cruise, hop back into the van for the return trip to Queenstown. Relax and enjoy the stunning views along the way. This full-day tour lasts about 12-13 hours, with smaller vehicles and a friendly guide to keep you comfortable and entertained throughout the journey.

Please note: This itinerary is indicative only and may be adjusted due to weather conditions, traffic, seasonal daylight hours, or other operational requirements. All efforts will be made to provide a seamless and memorable experience.